Dosewallips Campground

For local adventurers seeking "camping near me," Dosewallips Campground in Brinnon, WA, offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the heart of the Olympic Peninsula. Located at Brinnon, WA 98320, USA, and reachable by phone at (360) 565-3131 or mobile at +1 360-565-3131, this campground provides a basecamp for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. It's important to note that access to the upper campground, which is reportedly in better condition, is currently via a long hike due to a road washout that occurred in 2002. Nature has begun to reclaim the old road, making it an extended trek to reach the camping area.

According to recent visitor feedback, the journey to the campground itself is part of the experience. One reviewer described it as a "beautiful hike in only campground," emphasizing the scenic value of the approach. The upper Dosewallips Campground is noted to be in better shape than the lower Elkhorn Campground. Despite the road washout, the campground still retains some of its infrastructure, with visible campground numbers and fire pits and tables that are reported to have "a couple years of life left." A pit toilet is available, although its longevity is uncertain due to roof damage. The original flush toilet bathroom is currently locked due to the lack of a functioning water system. Interestingly, the creek is beginning to encroach upon the old water system building, highlighting the ongoing natural changes in the area.

A notable feature mentioned by a visitor is the "spur trail to the 1972 massive concrete bridge below the lower Elkhorn campground," which is described as "worth the 100 yard detour." This suggests an interesting historical or structural landmark accessible from the campground. The reviewer also speculated that the 1984 Buckhorn Wilderness designation may have influenced land management in the area.

For those considering reaching the campground with an e-bike, one review advises that it would need to be light due to the condition of the old road. The road at the steep grade has reportedly lost about 25% of its width, and there are several obstacles along the way, including downed trees, stream crossings, and rock slides. Furthermore, the road washout bypass involves either walking the bike over an upper detour or, in the downriver direction only (river permitting), carrying the bike via a river shortcut. This detailed description of the access conditions is crucial for local users planning their trip and considering different modes of transportation.

Despite the challenges in reaching the upper campground, another visitor shared a positive experience, highlighting the "beautiful campground, trail straight from the campground, river and beach access." This indicates that once at the campground, visitors can enjoy direct access to hiking trails and the Dosewallips River, potentially offering opportunities for riverside relaxation or exploration. The reviewer also mentioned visiting during the shoulder season, noting that while there were other campers, the atmosphere was "extremely quiet" with a sense of ample space and privacy.

However, this same reviewer raised some concerns regarding the camp hosts and the bathroom facilities. They reported an incident where a camp host entered a locked pay shower without knocking. Additionally, there was a morning incident where the showers were supposed to be unlocked at 7:00 a.m. but remained locked until a later time, causing inconvenience to waiting campers. The reviewer also noted that the showers are locked at night, which is important information for late arrivals to be aware of. These experiences suggest that while the natural setting is appealing, local users should be prepared for potential inconsistencies in facility management.

Despite these issues, the overall experience was deemed "pretty good," and the reviewer stated they would "definitely recommend this campsite." A significant highlight of their trip was "seeing the local herd of elk!" This suggests that wildlife viewing, particularly the chance to see elk, is a notable feature of the Dosewallips Campground experience.

Considering the information available, Dosewallips Campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a sense of remoteness due to the current access situation. Local users seeking a more adventurous camping experience that involves a hike or challenging bike ride to reach the upper campground will find a rewarding destination with access to trails and the Dosewallips River. The potential for wildlife sightings, such as elk, adds to its appeal.

However, it is crucial for prospective campers to be aware of the current conditions and limitations: the long hike or difficult bike ride to the upper campground, the limited and potentially deteriorating facilities (pit toilet with roof damage, locked flush toilets), and the reported issues with camp host management of the pay showers. Local users should come prepared for a more rustic experience and consider bringing their own water and being self-sufficient regarding sanitation.

For local users planning a trip to Dosewallips Campground, it is highly recommended to:

• Contact the provided phone numbers to inquire about the current access conditions, facility status (especially regarding water and restrooms), and any updates on campground management.
• Be prepared for a significant hike or a challenging e-bike ride to reach the upper campground, considering the downed trees, stream crossings, and rock slides on the old road.
• If planning to bike, ensure it is lightweight and be prepared to walk or carry it over certain sections.
• Bring adequate water and a means for purification, as the water system is no longer functional.
• Be self-sufficient regarding sanitation, given the uncertain condition of the pit toilet and the locked flush toilets.
• Be aware that the pay showers are locked at night and may have inconsistent management.
• Pack out all garbage and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
• Be mindful of wildlife, such as elk, and maintain a safe distance.

While Dosewallips Campground may present some logistical challenges due to the road washout, its location within the Olympic National Forest, access to natural features like the river and trails, and the possibility of wildlife encounters make it a compelling option for local campers seeking a more remote and adventurous experience. By being well-informed and prepared, local users can still enjoy the beauty and tranquility that Dosewallips Campground has to offer.

Dosewallips Campground

Brinnon, WA 98320, USA