Nestled in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, Olympic National Park offers a wide range of stunning natural landscapes. To fully experience the park’s wonders, you’ll need to find where to stay. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the best accommodation options in and around Olympic National Park. Whether you prefer camping under the stars, cozy lodges, or charming cabins, we have recommendations on where to stay.
Know Your Options
Just because you’re visiting Olympic National Park to explore the great outdoors, does not mean that you have to sleep in open-air accommodations. There are a wide variety of places to spend your evenings in and around the park, ranging from charmingly-rustic campgrounds to comfortable lodges and cabins. Read on, to determine where to stay!
Campgrounds
For those who want to immerse themselves in the great outdoors, Olympic National Park offers numerous campgrounds with varying amenities. Here are some popular options:
Kalaloch and Mora Campgrounds: These coastal campgrounds offer stunning oceanfront views, and Mora has easy access to the beautiful Rialto Beach.
Hoh Campground: Located near the Hoh Rainforest, this is a great choice for those looking to explore the moss-covered trees and vibrant greenery.
Sol Duc Campground: Situated in the Sol Duc Valley, this campground is close to the hot springs and many hiking trails.
Heart O’ the Hills Campground: This is the only campground in the park’s mountainous region, near Hurricane Ridge, making it an excellent choice for alpine enthusiasts.
Lodges and Cabins
If you’re searching for where to stay, and prefer a bit more comfort, don’t rough it in a tent! There are lodges and cabins both inside and outside the park:
Lake Crescent Lodge: Located on the pristine Lake Crescent, this historic lodge offers breathtaking views and charming accommodations.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort: Relax in natural hot springs after a day of hiking and put your feet up in a cozy cabin.
Kalaloch Lodge: Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this lodge offers comfortable rooms, cabins, and easy access to stunning beaches.
Quinault Lodge: In the Quinault Rainforest area, this lodge provides rustic elegance in the heart of the rainforest, with comfortable rooms and delicious dining options.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals can be a great choice for those seeking more privacy and flexibility. You’ll find a variety of cabins, cottages, and houses available on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO in the surrounding communities of Port Angeles, Forks, and Sequim.
Campgrounds Outside the Park
Struggling with the question of where to stay because you’re unable to secure a spot inside Olympic National Park? A more secluded camping experience exists within several campgrounds just outside the park’s boundaries. These include privately owned campgrounds and state parks like Salt Creek Recreation Area and Dungeness Recreation Area.
Backcountry Camping
For the adventurous backpackers, Olympic National Park offers backcountry camping permits. Securing such a permit allows you to camp in remote, less accessible areas of the park. Make sure to reserve them in advance and be prepared for a more primitive camping experience.
Don’t Worry About Where to Stay and Book a Guided Trip
Consider booking a guided backpacking trip with Lasting Adventures! Our company pre-reserves permits for adventures with the most breathtaking itineraries. A knowledgeable guide will lead you through Olympic National Park, ensuring that your days are free of worry about where to stay and what trails to explore.
Timing Is Everything
Make your reservations for Olympic National Park well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the summer months when accommodations are in high demand. Be sure to check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information on availability and booking.
Whether you prefer sleeping under the stars, staying in cozy lodges, or renting a private cabin, Olympic National Park and its surrounding areas offer diverse options to suit every traveler’s preferences. Plan your stay according to your adventure style and enjoy the inspiring beauty of this Pacific Northwest paradise!
By Aida Goma Petit