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Situated in a subalpine basin, and surrounded by wildflower and huckleberry meadows, Hoh Lake is a secluded wilderness destination where you’re likely to have more company with elk and black bears than you are fellow campers. The lake lies just south of 5,474-foot Bogachiel Peak and the Olympic High Divide. There are two ways to reach Hoh Lake, and both are long and strenuous. The route from the Hoh River trailhead is 14.5 miles, and gains 4,670 feet of elevation. The trail ascends mildly along the Hoh River for the first 9 miles, then it’s a steep, steady climb for the remaining 5.5 miles. The route from the Sol Duc trailhead is 8.9 miles, and gains 4,680 feet. This route makes a steady ascent to the High Divide, then drops over the other side and descends to the lake basin. The latter route affords more views, while the former route often sees more wildlife.
The camp area at Hoh Lake is a mere three campsites on the southwest side. One group site is located about 0.5 mile south of the lake at C.B. Flats. These are primitive tent sites have no amenities, and Leave No Trace practices should be exercised. Water can be obtained from the lake, but must be treated (boiled or filtered). Campfires are not permitted at this location, but contained-fuel camp stoves are allowed. A composting privy is located on the hillside above the camp area, as well as bear wires for hanging food and scented items. If starting in the Sol Duc area, you’re required to carry your food in a park-approved bear canister. Camping in the Olympic National Park backcountry requires a wilderness camping permit. These may be obtained up to 30 days in advance of your trip, or by visiting a Wilderness Information Center up to 1 day before the start of your trip. Permits are $8/person/night.
This is a great campground! We traveled in mid-April and it was very wet, but still enjoyable. The camp ground has flush toilets and is right near the water.
Bathrooms are pretty decent here but no soap so bring that and no showers. The area to wash your dishes is really good with a big sink and faucets and potable water. Make sure to not leave any food out because of local bears and other wildlife. The campsites were decently distanced apart so felt we had some privacy. Also the fire pits were legit with 4 different levels you can put the grill. We didn't have any cell service out there so that part is great to disconnect. I would definitely recommend and seems to be popular with families and couples. There's great short hikes walkable from the campsites as well.
This review is form a perspective of an RV full timer who needs Internet to work during the day.
There is no working dump site, no hookups, no cell reception, so be ready.
The campground is heavily wooded some solar comes through the woods. Not too Starlink friendly. However there are some sites with better clearing. I was in loop A, site 37 and that had a decent view of the northern sky with starlink only cutting out every four or so minutes. Loop A has some other sites where you will be able to use SL: 24, 31, 33, 34, 37, 38.
The B and C loops are heavily wooded. I need to mention site 68 which has great views of the nearby mountains and is right on the river. It's heavily wooded from the north however.
The visitor center's parking lot also doesn't have much of a clearing, and very busy. If you have a car or a van then maybe there are some spots in the parking lot you can use your dishy during the day. BUT If you park in the RV area then forget it, that is covered with trees.
There was not much sun during the days I stayed so I had to run genny to fill up batteries each afternoon. I guess that can be expected, in a rainforest.
All popular trails are walking distance from the campground which is nice.
I have a 28 feet long RV and the campsites are pretty tight. Some trees are hanging low and they scratching the roof. I wish they would cut them shorter.
Overall it was a peaceful stay. I was able to manage s few days and was able to keep my job 😂
Stayed Loop B. Beautiful and spacious. Easy access to trails. However there are too many flies and strong urine smell spots around/in the site. Someone must have dumped their RV grey/black water. The permanent closure of its dump station doesn’t appear to be a good idea.
There was about an hour long wait at the park entrance. I wish there is an additional/separate lane for campsite use.
My first time to Olympic National Park even though I grew up south of Seattle. It was beautiful. My daughter and I did some short hikes. I would have liked to do some longer hikes but didn't have the time. The Hoh campground was great. Good facilities. Visitor center. Ranger talks. Access to the river. A couple short hikes and one long hike start from the ranger station.
Plan for rain.
Overall outstanding.
