Fairholme Campground
4.03164 reviewsFairholme Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping reservations are $24 per night during peak season. Additional fees include a $10 service fee for modifications or cancellations. Late cancellation penalties apply if canceled the day before arrival, including forfeiture of the first-night use fee.
About this campground
Nestled within ancient old-growth forests on the Olympic Peninsula, Fairholme Campground offers an enchanting escape where towering trees meet pristine waters. This expansive facility invites you to choose between intimate walk-in lakefront sites along the shores of Lake Crescent or convenient drive-in spots tucked beneath the forest canopy. Adventure beckons with challenging trails that wind up steep mountainsides, revealing breathtaking vistas of the crystalline lake below, while Olympic National Park's legendary attractions await just minutes away.
Fairholme Campground accommodates tent camping, RVs, and walk-in sites. It offers a mix of settings, including lakefront and forested areas.
Historical SignificanceFairholme sits at the gateway to Olympic National Park's crown jewel, Lake Crescent, a place where nature's grandeur has drawn adventurers and dreamers for generations. This remarkable landscape of temperate rainforests and pristine glacial lakes represents one of the most diverse ecosystems in North America. Today, outdoor enthusiasts and nature explorers from around the world journey here to experience the same awe-inspiring wilderness that has captivated visitors for over a century.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of the Pacific Northwest's climate, where crisp, invigorating springs give way to perfectly mild summer days ideal for outdoor adventures. The region's generous rainfall nourishes a verdant wonderland, creating the lush, emerald landscapes that make this corner of Washington state so captivating. Each season paints the forest in different hues, from spring's fresh greens to summer's deep forest shadows.
ElevationPerched within the varied terrain of the Olympic Peninsula, Fairholme occupies a sweet spot where mountain meets lake. The campground's position offers the perfect vantage point to experience the Peninsula's dramatic elevation changes, from lakeside serenity to soaring peaks that define this magnificent landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the sight of Lake Crescent's impossibly blue waters, where glacial artistry has carved a 624-foot deep basin that mirrors the sky in shades of sapphire and turquoise. Ancient giants of the old-growth forest stand sentinel around the campground, their moss-draped branches creating natural cathedrals overhead. Fed by abundant Pacific rains, this emerald realm bursts with life - from delicate ferns carpeting the forest floor to towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks that have witnessed centuries pass.
Geological RegionFairholme Campground showcases the Olympic Peninsula's dramatic geological story, where steep mountains plunge directly into the crystal-clear depths of Lake Crescent. This glacially-carved masterpiece serves as your basecamp, its cold, pure waters a testament to the ancient ice rivers that sculpted this landscape. The surrounding old-growth forest clings to precipitous slopes, creating a living museum of Pacific Northwest geology where every trail reveals new wonders carved by time, ice, and the persistent rains that keep this ecosystem thriving.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne ADA-accessible campsite is available. Accessible features include flush toilets, parking spaces, and some trails.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating tents, small RVs, and vehicles. Some sites are noted for being spacious, while others are small and sloped.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited in most sites due to close proximity. Walk-in campsites near the lake offer slightly more seclusion. Reviews frequently mention the lack of visual or auditory privacy.
Total Campsites84 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid steep or sloped sites if camping with an RV. Walk-in sites offer stunning views but require traversing narrow trails. Sites near restrooms offer convenience but may lack privacy.
Best CampsitesWalk-in sites near the lake, particularly in loop C (e.g., sites 83, 89, and other 80-series sites).
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
7-day maximum stay during seasonal reservation. 21-day annual limit in Olympic National Park collectively.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Varies by site
- typically campers fit small RVs, one tow vehicle, or multiple tents depending on the site.
Groups
Group camping is not specifically mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized into loops (A, B, C). Walk-in sites located near the lakefront. Sites vary in size and slope.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen late May to September during reservation season. May open first-come-first-serve basis with weather permitting in spring.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov online system and phone. Some complaints about usability noted.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve basis during spring (weather permitting). Most walk-in sites in busy loops may fill quickly.
Cancellation PolicyReservations canceled prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time two nights before incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night fee. Modifications within the cut-off window incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Fairholme Campground can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The campground's proximity to Lake Crescent provides easy access to water-based recreation. Nearby trails and attractions such as Marymere Falls and Mount Storm King enhance the recreational experience.
Hiking
Numerous hiking opportunities are available near Lake Crescent, including trails to Marymere Falls and Mount Storm King. The Olympic Discovery Trailhead, 2 miles away, offers additional hiking options.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Lake Crescent, though restrictions and seasonal guidelines apply. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters.Swimming
Lake Crescent provides opportunities for swimming, though caution is advised due to the lake's cold year-round temperature.Biking
The Fairholme Olympic Discovery Trailhead offers biking opportunities, including road cycling and mountain biking. The terrain is suitable for varied skill levels.Boating
Lake Crescent features a boat launch adjacent to the campground. Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular activities.Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding areas offer opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including birds, ducks, and small mammals.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to the campground's seasonal operation. Nearby Olympic National Park offers some winter recreation options.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on Lake Crescent. The boat launch accommodates non-motorized watercraft.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Gathering wood for fires is prohibited. Firewood is available for purchase at nearby stores.
- Quiet hours start at 10 PM, but enforcement is sometimes lax according to reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad noise from U.S. Highway 101 is frequently mentioned. Trails to walk-in campsites are steep. Cold water temperatures at Lake Crescent make swimming risky.
Active alertsNo specific advisories mentioned.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest gas station is located 17 miles west on US Highway 101 at the junction with SR 113. Emergency services like police stations and hospitals are not explicitly mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 15 (2025 season).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but some users raised concerns about overflowing dumpsters and unsecured bins attracting wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresNext to Lake Crescent. Some sites are directly on the lakefront.
Common complaintsComplaints include road noise, crowded campsites, difficulties accessing walk-in sites, steep trails, and late restroom maintenance.
HostHosts are friendly but one host covers three loops, leading to maintenance delays.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFairholme lies on the west side of Lake Crescent within Olympic National Park, about a 45-minute drive from Port Angeles and a 30-minute drive from Forks. Fairholme Campground is accessed by Camp David Jr. Road, off US Highway 101.
Roads in the campground are steep and narrow with low tree branches and tight turns. Maneuvering large RVs and trailers into campsites may be difficult. Seasonal closures or weather may affect access during spring.Nearby places
Port Angeles (45-minute drive). Forks (30-minute drive). Beaver (30-60 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Campers can purchase firewood at Fairholme General Store, Lake Crescent Lodge, and Log Cabin Resort. The nearest shower facility is Bogachiel State Park (35 miles one way), located off US Highway 101.
Camper Reviews
4.0
164 reviews
Fairholme Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Fairholme Campground receives mixed reviews. Positive aspects include its scenic location next to Lake Crescent, clean facilities, and access to outdoor activities. Common complaints refer to highway noise, crowded sites, and maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 164 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praised the campground's stunning setting, clean restrooms, and access to Lake Crescent for swimming and boating. Reviews like 'Beautiful site overlooking the lake,' and 'The lake...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Highway noise, lack of privacy, and maintenance challenges are commonly cited issues. Complaints include 'campground was very loud with road noise' and 'porta-potties were very poorly maintained.'
Based on 164 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Many users recommend earplugs due to highway noise. Selecting a site away from the road is also advised. Some suggest bringing soap and extra supplies due to shortages.
Based on 164 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the campground's beauty but also its high occupancy and noise. Spring and fall visitors noted quieter stays but fewer amenities due to renovations.
Based on 164 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The view was incredible' 2. 'Traffic noise is very loud and I found it disturbing' 3. 'Bathrooms were clean and well maintained.'
Based on 164 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site preferences vary widely. Walk-in sites near the lake are praised for their views but criticized for steep access. Drive-in sites receive mixed reviews due to size and slope. For example, 'Site...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is noted as a challenge in hilly areas, particularly for those with mobility issues. Reviews like 'Get a site close to the bathroom if anyone in your party struggles with hills' provide...
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Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome but must be leashed. Reviews mention limited pet-friendly trails.
Based on 164 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025