Elkhorn Campground

Elkhorn Campground near Brinnon Washington is a former front-country US Forest Service Campground (Olympic National Forest) now listed as "dispersed" having been cut off by a wash out on the access road and abandoned. Nature is quickly reclaiming the facility leaving only a handful of sites offering primitive hike and bike in tent camping opportunities. The sites most used by campers are located along the banks of the Dosewallips River and afford scenic views and peaceful sounds from the river. A non-maintained parking area is located just before the washout (GPS 47.74025, -123.06512). Users then must navigate a 75 foot switch-back laden trail around the main washout and then drop down to the old roadway. The 2.5 mile trek is relatively mild and can be used as an excellent intro to back country camping for novices. Another 2.5 miles beyond Elkhorn is Dosewallips Campground in Olympic National Park. The two destinations could easily be used to initiate young kids into back country camping; using them for a two day hike-camp-hike-camp-hike. There are picnic tables and fire rings available. No running water or restrooms. Free to use the campground is not maintained and is over 11 miles from US 101 and the nearest services. Pack out what you pack in and come prepared. The access road to the parking area is graded gravel and subject to large sharp pot-holes; use caution.