In case you didn’t know, Olympic National Park is HUGE. Seriously, check it out on the map. And, it’s not very easy to get from one side of the park to another. That’s why one of the first things you need to do is to figure out where to stay in Olympic National Park.
When we started planning our trip to ONP, we had no idea how spread out everything is in the park, making it difficult to choose just one place to bed down for a week.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right base for your adventure.
Luckily, we’ve compiled a guide to help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and budget.
And, it’ll help you logistically think about things like drive time, traffic, weather, access to stores, and much more.
🏕️ Speaking of logistics, if you need help planning your trip or want some advice about hiking, camping, or adventures, head over to our FREE Facebook Group “Outdoor Adventure & Travel Tips”. We love to collaborate on all things outdoors and enjoy being inspired by each other’s destinations and travel stories.
When choosing your base in Olympic National Park, it’s important to consider what you want to see and do during your stay.
Are you interested in exploring the park’s beaches, rainforests, or mountains? Do you want to participate in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or kayaking?
Answering these questions in advance will help you narrow down your options and find the best location for your needs.
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Once you’ve chosen your base, you’ll need to decide on the type of accommodation that suits you best. From rustic cabins and campsites to luxurious lodges and resorts, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Keep in mind that availability and pricing can vary depending on the season, so it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance.
Travel Tip! Stay at a few different places throughout the park to cut down on driving. Google’s estimated drive times are often skewed shorter than what it actually takes to drive through the park. Not to mention, traffic in the summer in Olympic National Park is outrageous.
Choosing Your Base in Olympic National Park
When planning a trip to Olympic National Park, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. There are several towns and regions to choose from, each with its own unique charm and proximity to the park’s attractions.
Port Angeles: Gateway to the Park
If you’re looking for easy access to Hurricane Ridge and other popular areas of the park, Port Angeles is a great choice.
This charming town is located on the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula and offers a variety of lodging options, from budget motels to upscale hotels.
In addition to its proximity to the park, Port Angeles has a downtown area with plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions to explore.
Don’t forget to stop at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center located at 3002 Mount Angeles Road, Port Angeles, WA 98362.
Collect your passport stamp there and get all the latest information from the park rangers about trail closures and best easy hiking trails to kick off your day.
Our favorite hike, Marymere Falls, is located near Port Angeles and is the PERFECT hike to welcome you to the lush beautiful forests and waterfalls of ONP. We just love it!
Travel Tip! Do all of your grocery shopping in Port Angeles since there are big supermarkets there. There aren’t really any options for chain grocery stores inside of Olympic National Park.
Forks: Twilight and Rainforests
Fans of the “Twilight” book and movie series will recognize Forks as the setting for the story.
But even if you’re not a fan of the franchise, this small town is worth a visit for its proximity to the Hoh Rainforest and other lush areas of the park. There are several lodging options in Forks, including cozy cabins and budget motels.
You’ll want to stop by the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center (about 31 miles south of Forks) while you’re in the area to collect a different stamp for your passport book.
Travel Tip! There are some amazing rainforest hikes in Olympic National Park so definitely plan to spend some time in the Forks area. Our favorite easy rainforest hike in the Hoh Rainforest is the Hall of Mosses Nature Trail.
Sequim: Sunshine and Lavender
Located on the northern coast of the Olympic Peninsula, Sequim is known for its sunny weather and fields of lavender. While it’s a bit farther from the park than some other options, it offers a unique experience for visitors.
In addition to its charming downtown area, Sequim has several lodging options, including bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals.
No matter which town or region you choose as your base for exploring Olympic National Park, be sure to take some time to explore the surrounding areas as well.
The Olympic Peninsula is full of natural beauty and unique attractions, and the drive to and from the park is a scenic adventure in itself.
Types of Accommodations
When planning a trip to Olympic National Park, choosing the right type of accommodation is important for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
There are the three main types of accommodations available in the park.
Hotels and Lodges
If you’re looking for a more traditional hotel experience, Olympic National Park has several historic lodges and modern hotels to choose from.
These lodges and hotels offer comfortable rooms, dining options, and a range of amenities. Some of the most popular options include Lake Crescent Lodge, Kalaloch Lodge, and Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.
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Cabins and Cottages
For a more rustic experience, consider staying in one of the many cabins and cottages available in Olympic National Park.
These accommodations offer a cozy and secluded experience, with options ranging from historic cabins to modern cottages. Some of the most popular options include the rustic cabins at Lake Quinault Lodge and the modern cabins at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.
Camping and Campgrounds
Our favorite and most convenient suggestion is the camping in Olympic National Park because there are several campground options to choose from and the experience itself gets you even closer to nature.
The park offers several campgrounds, ranging from primitive backcountry sites to more developed campgrounds with amenities like showers and electrical hookups. Some of the most popular campgrounds include Sol Duc Hot Springs Campground, Kalaloch Campground, and Hoh Campground.
No matter what type of accommodation you choose, be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season. Summer is the best time to visit Olympic National Park but it’s also peak season and the park gets crazy crowded so research which campground you love the most and stay on top of their reservation system.
Travel Tip! It’s extremely important to research the campground way in advance no matter what season you’re traveling to ONP. This is because the weather can get pretty extreme and fluctuate throughout the year causing certain roads or campground areas in the park to become inaccessible. Stay up to date on the Olympic National Park Alerts & Notices.
Top Lodging Picks Inside the Park
I’m not gonna lie, there are some really cool spots to stay in Olympic but do your own research and read the latest reviews to make the best decision for your vacation vibe.
Here are our top lodging picks inside the park:
Lake Crescent Lodge
Located on the shores of Lake Crescent, the Lake Crescent Lodge is a historic property that offers a range of accommodations, including rooms in the main lodge and cabins. The lodge dates back to the early 1900s and has been beautifully restored to offer modern amenities while retaining its historic charm.
The lodge offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The lodge’s restaurant serves delicious meals made with fresh, local ingredients.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
If you’re looking for a unique experience, the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is a great choice. The resort is located in a remote area of the park at a higher elevation and offers a range of accommodations, including cabins and campsites.
The resort’s main attraction is its hot springs, which are open year-round and offer a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploring the park.
When we visited in April, it was still super cold and slightly snowing so we didn’t choose to partake in the hot springs. Be prepared for the natural sulfur smell!
Kalaloch Lodge
Located on the coast of the park, the Kalaloch Lodge offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The lodge offers a range of accommodations, including rooms in the main lodge and cabins.
The lodge’s restaurant serves delicious seafood dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The lodge also offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and beachcombing.
Quileute Oceanside Resort
By far our most favorite place to stay in ONP is the Quileute Oceanside Resort. It’s nestled along the gorgeous rocky coastline of Olympic National Park, cozy and rustic cabins complete with stunning ocean views.
They also have the best campground view in all of Olympic National Park! We literally parked our camper van, opened the back door and had views of the ocean. I mean, you can’t beat that!
This place is absolute perfection for those seeking a tranquil retreat. The cabins come equipped with modern amenities, so you’ll get the comforts of home but with a wilderness experience.
Whether you’re pitching a tent or visiting the park in your RV, this campground provides the perfect spot to lose yourself in the park’s coastal beauty.
With clean facilities, a grocery store, and proximity to the ocean, it’s an ideal camping destination for those looking to explore both the forest and the shoreline.
Travel Tip! Go to the Quileute Oceanside Resort property map and look at the left side. You’ll want to stay in the Lonesome Creek RV Park side of the property. If you’re in an RV or campervan, choose from spot numbers 25-30 (our personal fav was #26).
Exploring Beyond the Park’s Borders
If you’re looking for a place to stay outside of Olympic National Park, there are plenty of options available to you. From quaint towns to coastal retreats, the Pacific Northwest has something for everyone.
Olympic Lodge and Peninsula Rentals
If you’re looking for a place to stay near the park, Olympic Lodge and Peninsula Rentals are both great options.
Olympic Lodge is located in Port Angeles, just a short drive from the park’s entrance. They offer comfortable rooms and suites, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
Peninsula Rentals offers a variety of vacation homes and cabins in and around the park. You can choose from lakefront cabins, rustic cottages, and modern homes with all the amenities you need.
Quaint Towns and Coastal Retreats
For something a little more unique, there are plenty of towns and coastal retreats. Port Townsend is a charming Victorian seaport with great restaurants, shops, and galleries. You can stay in a historic hotel or bed and breakfast and explore the town’s many attractions.
Lake Quinault is another great option. It’s located on the southern edge of the park and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. You can stay in a rustic cabin or modern lodge and enjoy hiking, fishing, and boating on the lake.
Finally, for a coastal retreat, check out the town of Port Angeles. It’s located on the Strait of Juan de Fuca and offers great views of the Olympic Mountains. You can stay in a hotel or vacation rental and explore the town’s many shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Activities and Amenities Nearby
Hiking and Adventure
Olympic National Park offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels of experience. The park has over 600 miles of trails, so you are sure to find one that suits your interests.
The Quinault Rainforest is a great place to start, with its lush greenery and stunning waterfalls. The Sol Duc River is another popular destination for hiking, with its beautiful scenery and challenging terrain.
If you’re looking for a national park adventure, kayaking is a great way to explore the park’s many waterways. The park has several kayak rental companies, so you can easily rent a kayak and explore the park’s many lakes and rivers.
The Sol Duc Hot Springs are another great destination for adventure-seekers. The hot spring pools offer a relaxing soak after a long day of hiking or kayaking.
Relaxing in Nature’s Spa
Speaking of relaxing, the Sol Duc Hot Springs are a great place to unwind. The hot spring pools offer a natural spa experience, with their mineral-rich waters and beautiful surroundings.
The pools are open year-round, so you can enjoy them no matter what time of year you visit.
There are also a few restaurants and amenities within driving distance, so you can easily find a place to eat or stock up on supplies.
The town of Port Angeles is a great place to start, with its many restaurants and grocery stores.
If you’re traveling with family, there are several family-friendly activities in the area, such as the Olympic Game Farm and the Dungeness Spit.
Wrap-Up: Where To Stay in Olympic National Park
Choosing where to stay in Olympic National Park comes down to what kind of experience you’re after.
Whether it’s waking up to ocean views, camping out in the forest, or staying somewhere that’s right in the middle of the action, there’s a spot that’ll fit your style.
No matter where you end up, you’re in for an adventure. Just pick your place, pack your bags, and get ready to enjoy everything this amazing park has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top accommodations inside Olympic National Park?
If you’re looking for a unique lodging experience inside Olympic National Park, the Lake Crescent Lodge is a great choice. It’s the only lodge located on the shores of Lake Crescent, and offers a combination of historic lodge rooms and rustic cabins. The Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is another popular option, with its natural hot springs and cozy cabins.
Can you recommend some lesser-known lodging options on the Olympic Peninsula?
If you’re looking for a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path experience, consider staying at the Kalaloch Lodge or the Quinault Lodge. These lodges offer a more rustic and remote atmosphere, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding forests.
What are the best towns to stay in when visiting Olympic National Park?
Port Angeles and Forks are both great options for lodging when visiting Olympic National Park. Port Angeles is the largest town on the Olympic Peninsula and offers a variety of lodging options, as well as easy access to Hurricane Ridge and other popular attractions. Forks is a smaller town, but is known for its connection to the Twilight series and its proximity to the Hoh Rainforest.
How long should I plan to stay when exploring Olympic National Park?
To fully explore Olympic National Park, plan to stay at least 3-4 days. This will give you enough time to visit the major attractions, such as Hurricane Ridge, the Hoh Rainforest, and Lake Quinault. If you have more time, consider exploring some of the lesser-known areas of the park, such as the Elwha River Valley or the coastal beaches.
Are there any unique Airbnb properties near Olympic National Park?
Yes, there are several unique Airbnb properties near Olympic National Park. From cozy cabins in the woods to yurts and treehouses, there are plenty of options for those looking for a more unique lodging experience. Just be sure to book in advance, as these properties tend to fill up quickly.
What lodging is closest to the main attractions in Olympic National Park?
If you want to stay close to the main attractions in Olympic National Park, consider staying at Lake Crescent Lodge or Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. Both of these lodges are located near some of the park’s most popular attractions, including Hurricane Ridge and the Hoh Rainforest.
