top of page

Camping at Lake Crescent: A Guide

Are you looking for the perfect Lake Crescent camping spot? Then look no further than Lake Crescent in Washington! With crystal-clear waters and lush evergreen forests, this stunning lake is the perfect place for your next camping trip.


In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your Lake Crescent camping adventure. From the best campsites to the must-see attractions, we’ll make sure you get the most out of your trip. You can also visit Lake Crescent in winter!

The Best lake Crescent Camping


Location

Located in the Olympic National Park in Washington, Lake Crescent is a stunning body of water surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains. It’s one of the most picturesque places to camp in the state, with miles of shoreline and views of the lake from the lake crescent campgrounds.


Camping at Lake Crescent is a great way to experience nature and all the beauty of the area. There are many lake crescent campsites available, some of which are open year-round for RV camping or tent camping. Visitors will enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, swimming, and biking on the lake or around the campgrounds.

Lake Crescent View
A view of the blue waters of Lake Crescent

Best Lake Crescent Campgrounds


Fairholme Campground is a large campground next to Lake Crescent that's very popular with visitors in the summer. It's on the north side of the lake and offers 88 sites.


Amenities

  • Potable water

  • Picnic tables

  • Fire pits at each site

  • Restrooms

  • A large parking lot



Sol Duc Campground

Sol Duc Campground is another very popular option near Lake Crescent. It's also known as Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground. The campground offers 82 tent sites and 17 RV sites.


Amenities

  • Water

  • Picnic tables

  • Hiking trails

  • Restrooms

  • Showers

Blue waters of Lake Crescent

Twin Beach Campground

Twin Beach Campground is a much smaller campsite near the lake. There are only 5 tent or RV spots. But it is incredibly scenic with the beach and forest nearby.


Amenities

  • Water

  • Picnic tables

  • Fire pits

  • River access



Lyre River Campground

The Lyre River Campground is another small site that's often full near the lake. It's a fee-free site which makes it very rare among campsites in this area. The only requirement to camp there is a Discover Pass.


Amenities

  • Drinking water

  • Toilets

  • Trash

  • Picnic table

  • Fire pits

Lake Crescent in fall
Lake Crescent is also beautiful in the fall

The very large Salt Creek Campground is a great campsite near Port Angeles. It offers tent sites and RV sites with full hookups. The campground is beautifully situated above the water, with ocean views from many sites. You can also explore the Salt Creek Recreation Area while there.

RV sites at Salt Creek Campground
RV sites at Salt Creek Campground

Amenities

  • Drinking water

  • Restrooms

  • Showers

  • Fire pits

  • Picnic tables



Ranger Creek Campground

Ranger Creek Campground is a good option near Port Angeles and Lake Crescent. The campground is pet-friendly (but your pet needs to be on a leash). There are very few amenities here, though, so make sure that you bring what you need. Nearby, you can explore Crescent Beach as well.


Amenities

  • Pit toilet

  • Flat tent-camping area

Lake Crescent at sunset
Lake Crescent at sunset

Elwha RV Park and Campground

Elwha RV Park and Campground is near Ranger Creek and is a beautiful, private camping area that's perfect for anyone visiting the lake. It's also not far from Olympic National Park.


Amenities

  • Wifi

  • Restrooms and showers

  • 24-hour security

  • Pet friendly

  • Laundry services



Activities

If you are looking for a scenic getaway and plenty of outdoor activities, camping at Lake Crescent is the perfect destination. There is something for everyone at Lake Crescent, whether you prefer a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-filled adventure.


Start your day off with a leisurely stroll around the lake and take in the breathtaking views. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or canoe and explore the lake and its surrounding islands. Take advantage of the lake crescent campgrounds and spend some time fishing, or find a spot to go swimming. You can even take a hike along one of the many trails that crisscross the lake and nearby areas.

Lake Crescent Sunshine

Lake Crescent campgrounds provide numerous camping sites that allow you to spend the night in nature. There are plenty of campsites available throughout the area, ranging from lakeside spots to wooded sites. And if you are looking for some extra adventure, you can try one of the many lake crescent campsites that offer a backcountry experience.



Tips

1. Make sure to plan ahead when visiting Lake Crescent; camping at Lake Crescent is often busy, so book your campsite early to ensure you get the best spot.

2. Bring plenty of bug spray and sunscreen as you’ll be spending time outdoors!

3. If you are planning on fishing, make sure to get the proper licenses and permits.

4. Follow Leave No Trace principles and be respectful of nature and other visitors to Lake Crescent.

5. Make sure to bring a map of the Lake Crescent campgrounds and check for closures before you set out.

6. For first-time visitors, it’s a good idea to stay close to the campgrounds and explore the area from there.

7. Pack warm clothes, and layers, as the temperature at Lake Crescent can drop quickly during the night.

8. Be sure to research any safety advisories or closures before planning a trip to Lake Crescent campsites.


You Might Also Like

Comments


bottom of page