North Fork Campground Introduce
Hello, local outdoor enthusiasts! If you're searching for "camping near me" and appreciate a more rustic and nature-focused experience, allow us to introduce you to North Fork Campground, located at N Shore Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA. You can reach them at (360) 565-3131 or +1 360-565-3131 for any inquiries. Based on recent customer reviews, North Fork Campground offers a small, first-come first-served camping area with convenient access to natural attractions.
The environment surrounding North Fork Campground is characterized by its proximity to the North Fork of a river (likely the Elwha River, given the location within the Olympic Peninsula) and the trailheads for North Fork and Irely Lake. This suggests a setting within a potentially lush, forested area, typical of the Olympic National Park region, offering opportunities for riverside relaxation and hiking. The easy access to the river mentioned in a review points towards a landscape where water features prominently, enhancing the natural appeal of the location.
In terms of services, North Fork Campground offers basic amenities, contributing to its more primitive camping experience. One review from August 2024 indicates that during that time, the campground was free. It features a limited number of campsites, specifically eight, all available on a first-come, first-served basis. The provided facilities include picnic tables and a single porta-potti. Importantly, the review explicitly mentions "no water" and "no other facilities" beyond these. Additionally, it notes the absence of mobile phone service, emphasizing the campground's secluded nature. A later review from December 29th highlights seasonal changes, stating that the portable toilets were removed for the winter, and the pay station was winterized. However, this review also points out a significant benefit: a concrete USFS restroom located a short walk away at the North Fork Trail Head was unlocked and in good condition even during the off-season. This suggests that while on-site facilities within the campground are minimal and can vary seasonally, a more permanent restroom is accessible nearby.
The key features of North Fork Campground are its small size, its first-come, first-served nature, and its strategic location providing easy access to the North Fork river and the trailheads for North Fork and Irely Lake. For those looking to embark on hikes in the area or enjoy the tranquility of a riverside setting, this campground serves as a convenient base. The fact that it was reported as free in August 2024 adds to its appeal for budget-conscious campers, although this status might be subject to change, especially during peak seasons. The quiet atmosphere, as noted in a review, makes it attractive for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
For local users searching for "camping near me" who prefer smaller, more intimate campgrounds with direct access to hiking trails and river areas, North Fork Campground presents an appealing option. Its proximity to the North Fork and Irely Lake trailheads makes it ideal for hikers. The limited facilities underscore the need for campers to be self-sufficient. The seasonal availability and potential changes in amenities, such as the removal of portable toilets in winter, are important considerations for planning a visit. The presence of a nearby USFS restroom at the trailhead, even during the off-season, is a significant advantage.
Considering its small size (only 8 sites) and first-come, first-served policy, it's advisable to arrive early, especially during popular times of the year, as indicated by the reviewer who noted it filled up by dark. The lack of mobile phone service further emphasizes the opportunity for a digital detox and immersion in the natural surroundings.
In summary, North Fork Campground offers a clean and quiet camping experience with easy access to the North Fork river and nearby trailheads. It is a small, first-come, first-served campground with limited facilities, including picnic tables and a porta-potti (seasonally available). There is no on-site water, and mobile phone service is unavailable. A significant benefit is the year-round access to a concrete USFS restroom a short walk away at the North Fork Trail Head. This campground is particularly suited for those who prioritize access to nature and hiking over extensive amenities.
As for promotional information for local users looking for "camping near me," North Fork Campground offers a free (as of August 2024), peaceful, and conveniently located base for exploring the natural beauty around the North Fork and Irely Lake. If you appreciate a quieter camping experience with direct access to trails and a river, and you are comfortable with basic amenities, North Fork Campground is worth considering. Its first-come, first-served nature encourages spontaneity, and its proximity to natural attractions promises a rewarding outdoor experience. Be sure to check current conditions and fees before planning your trip, and come prepared for a more self-sufficient camping adventure.
North Fork Campground Photos










North Fork Campground Location
North Fork Campground
N Shore Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA
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North Fork Campground Reviews
This is a small first-come first-served campground, 8 sites, and when I stayed there in August 2024 it was free. It's clean and quiet, easy walking distance from the North Fork and Irely Lake trailheads, and easy access to the river. No water, one porta-potti, picnic tables, no other facilities. The place was empty when we arrived but it filled up by dark. No mobile phone service.
Aug 14, 2024 · Chris EarleStopped by on December 29th. The portable toilets were removed for the season and the pay station was winterized. The concrete USFS restroom a short walk away at the North Fork Trail Head was unlocked and in good condition.
Dec 30, 2023 · Mike DThis is a bit out of the way compared to other drive up campsites nearby, but we came on a Friday night in the middle of the summer, it was the sixth campground we checked that night, and the only one that was not full. About half of the ten or so campsites were occupied. The drive in is not entirely paved, but there weren't many potholes and our little car did just fine. It took about thirty minutes to get to from the 101.Getting there, you can either take the south shore or north shore road of lake Quinault. The south side is more paved, and there are more farms you drive past. The north side seemed a bit more rugged, there was a small bridge you cross that was 'interesting', and there were good views of the forest and lake.As opposed to other campgrounds I have stayed at in Washington, this campground is in the Olympic National Park, and so the rules and atmosphere are a bit different than in the state park or national forest. For example, dogs are not permitted here technically (we had a dog). Also the only bathroom facilities are port-a-potties, which badly needed cleaning. So don't come here for the deluxe European style camping experience.What this campground does offer is that it is directly in the old growth rainforest that is otherwise quite difficult if not impossible to access. Your tent will sit among thousand year old trees. It also rained, despite it being August, but it was a warm, light, refreshing rain that did not get you wet.
Aug 11, 2019 · KrisI have not camped here but I have passed through to access the North Fork Trailhead and begin the Press Expedition Trail. This is the smallest campground in Olympic National Park and is very primitive. Graves Creek a few miles down the road may have better amenities and certainly more sites, but tends to fill up faster.Sometimes this is a last-resort campground in the peak summer, but you may love it for its quiet remoteness and ancient trees. It can get quite dark here at night.Olympic Otter
Jun 06, 2022 · Steve HidayLoved our first stay at the North Fork Campground! Not too far of a drive from Seattle (2.5 hours), with plenty of picturesque scenery to enjoy along the way. We reserved our camp spot online via. the Recreation.gov smart phone app and showed up to our reserves campsite. Everything was cleaned up real nice for us, which was awesome! There’s plenty of nearby trails for the adventurer and a river to enjoy as well. Campsites weren’t too close together and our Saturday night was very quiet and enjoyable. Campsite also sells firewood (which is great) and they can provide chopping tools if you don’t have a set of your own. #PNWonderland
Jul 31, 2019 · Joshua & Darby
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