Pacific Northwest, USA
Olympic National Park manages 14 campgrounds, varying from primitive walk-in sites to developed areas with restrooms and potable water. Some popular campgrounds are reservable via Recreation.gov.
Designated sites for wilderness camping suit those seeking a deep immersion into the park's wild areas. Wilderness permits and bear canisters are often conditions.
Four lodges within the park offer rooms and cabins, providing accommodation inside the park boundaries. These include Lake Crescent Lodge, Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, and Kalaloch Lodge.
Located on Lake Crescent, this resort expects to reopen in 2025 after renovations.
Many choices are present in gateway towns like Port Angeles, Forks, and Sequim, from budget chains to mid-range hotels. Explore options on Booking.com or Agoda.
Charming, often locally owned, options are found in smaller towns like Port Angeles and Port Townsend, offering a personalized stay.
Homes, cabins, or apartments are widely available in surrounding communities via Vrbo, useful for families or longer stays, often with kitchens.
Limited private glamping operations and unique treehouse stays are available just outside the park boundaries, presenting distinct lodging experiences.
Each area near Olympic National Park presents distinct advantages and considerations for your stay.
All areas surrounding Olympic National Park are generally safe. Standard precautions apply: lock vehicles, avoid leaving valuables visible, especially at trailheads, as car break-ins happen in popular parking areas.
In-park lodges and campgrounds typically experience quiet, immersed-in-nature settings. Campgrounds have people noise, and some lodges might have generator noise. Towns display standard small-town noise levels, with greater activity in commercial areas.
Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Negotiation for walk-in rates is not common for established hotels or lodges in this region. Campgrounds have fixed rates.
For first-come, first-served campgrounds, early arrival is necessary to secure a spot, specifically during summer.
Vacation rental quality can vary, so read reviews and descriptions carefully.
A comparison table follows to assist your choice based on travel style and budget.
Olympic National Park Campgrounds, especially first-come, first-served sites like Fairholme, present the most affordable stays. Hostels in Port Angeles, when available, present another budget choice. (Hostelworld)
Hotels in Port Angeles or Sequim, such as Olympic Lodge or Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles, offer comfortable stays with good access to amenities. Check Booking.com for deals.
Lake Crescent Lodge or Kalaloch Lodge present an immersive, high-end experience within the park. Upscale vacation rentals in the area offer privacy and amenities. (IHG Hotels)
Vacation rentals are ideal for longer stays due to their amenities, such as kitchens and laundry facilities, and their home-like atmosphere. Explore options on Vrbo.
These spaces allow kids to play and present direct access to nature. Look for campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and water.
Multiple bedrooms, kitchens for self-catering, and living space define these rentals, making them ideal for families. Consider Vrbo.
Popular for families due to their coastal setting and proximity to beaches, allowing for easy access to beach activities.
For families with pets, consider house/pet sitting exchanges via TrustedHousesitters.
Hostels in Port Angeles present social opportunities and are budget-friendly. Look for options on Hostelworld.
In gateway towns, these offer independence and convenience for a solo stay.
This option provides independence and an immersive nature experience within the park's designated campgrounds.
Properties like Lake Crescent Lodge and Kalaloch Lodge possess rustic charm and historical significance, dating back to early park tourism development.
Built in 1926, this lodge is known for its rustic charm and rich history, offering a glimpse into early park tourism.
Features rustic coastal cabins and a main lodge, integral to the park's history and coastal experience, popular for its dramatic ocean views.
Though just outside the park boundary, this grand historic lodge built in 1926 is a striking example of rustic lodge architecture and hosted President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Near the mineral hot springs, this resort showcases historic accommodations and proximity to Sol Duc Falls.
Another historic property on Lake Crescent, currently undergoing renovations with a planned reopening in 2025.
