Campground: Coho Group Camp
00 reviewLa Wis Wis Campground, US Hwy 12, Packwood, Washington
Campground: Coho Group Camp
$27.00 - $115.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$27.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$115.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees for overnight use are as follows: $27 per night for single sites, $50 per night for double sites, $115 per night for group sites, and $8 per night for additional vehicles. Discounts of up to 50% are available for holders of passes such as Interagency Senior, Interagency Access, Golden Age, or Golden Access.
About this campground
Where the crystalline waters of the Clear Fork Cowlitz River meet the rushing Ohanapecosh, La Wis Wis Campground spreads across 100 thoughtfully designed sites beneath towering evergreens. This expansive riverside retreat has earned a devoted following among Pacific Northwest adventurers who seek the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness solitude. From intimate individual sites tucked among ancient trees to spacious group areas ideal for family reunions, La Wis Wis serves as your gateway to cascading waterfalls and hidden swimming holes, with the spectacular Purcell Falls and enchanting Blue Hole Trail just moments away.
The campground supports a mix of individual campsites, group sites, and tent camping areas, with options for both reservable and first-come-first-serve use.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through mid-September, La Wis Wis awakens to welcome visitors during the Pacific Northwest's most glorious months. Summer days bring gentle warmth filtered through the forest canopy, with temperatures perfect for riverside relaxation and trail exploration. Cool mountain mornings give way to comfortable afternoons, while evening brings that magical forest chill that makes gathering around the campfire an essential ritual.
ElevationNestled in the forested valleys of the southern Cascades, La Wis Wis Campground offers a moderate elevation that provides comfortable camping conditions throughout the summer season.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of ancient Douglas firs, western hemlocks, and majestic cedars that have stood sentinel for centuries. The campground's old-growth forest creates a naturally air-conditioned sanctuary where shafts of sunlight pierce the canopy, illuminating carpets of moss and ferns. The confluence of two rivers fills the air with the soothing symphony of flowing water, while nearby trails wind through this emerald wonderland to reveal hidden waterfalls and crystalline pools that seem lifted from a fairy tale.
Geological RegionDeep within the 1.3-million-acre Gifford Pinchot National Forest, La Wis Wis occupies a spectacular riverside setting where ancient volcanic forces and patient rivers have carved a landscape of stunning beauty. This corner of the Cascade Range showcases the raw power of the Pacific Northwest's geological heritage, where the Clear Fork Cowlitz and Ohanapecosh Rivers have sculpted valleys through volcanic deposits, creating a dramatic backdrop of forested ridges and river canyons beneath the protective canopy of centuries-old Douglas firs, hemlocks, and cedars.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the provided sources.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of 100 sites, with additional group camping options for up to 30 people.
Sites PrivacyMost sites offer good privacy, according to authoritative descriptions.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
8for single sites, 25-30 for group sites
Groups
The Coho Group Site accommodates up to 30 people and 5 vehicles, with a maximum vehicle length of 24 feet.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonMid May to Mid September
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityBoth reservable and first-come, first-serve sites are available. Patterns for fill times are not specified.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific details available in the source materials.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities include picnicking, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The trails offer scenic views of Purcell Falls and the Blue Hole along the Ohanapecosh River.
Hiking
The Purcell Falls Trail #162A and Blue Hole Trail #167 start within the campground, offering scenic hikes to waterfalls and river views.Fishing
Fishing is allowed in the nearby river/stream, but selective gear rules apply as per Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations.Wildlife viewing
The campground is described as ideal for viewing wildlife, benefiting from its old-growth forest setting.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, and the campground operates seasonally from May to September.Water Sports
No water sports such as kayaking, rafting, or sailing are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Not specified in the source materials.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsCurrently, potable water is unavailable due to high benzene levels. Visitors must bring their own water.
Active alertsAs of 5/19/25, potable water is unavailable. Vehicles blocking gates are subject to fines and towing.
Weather forecast
95
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Emergency services are likely available in Packwood, the nearest city, located 4 miles (approximately 7 minutes) from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid May to Mid September
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not detailed; however, day-use areas and campsites are expected to have standard waste options.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located at the confluence of the Clear Fork of the Cowlitz and the Ohanapecosh Rivers.
Common complaintsThe lack of potable water and the need to bring your own supply is a recurring concern.
Campground Map
La Wis Wis Campground, US Hwy 12, Packwood, Washington
Driving directionsFrom Packwood, Washington, travel four miles east on State Route 12 to the campground on your left.
The campground is directly accessible from US Highway 12, making it easy to reach. However, the Coho Group Site has a maximum vehicle length restriction of 24 feet, while the main campground allows vehicles from 18-40 feet.Nearby places
Packwood (4 miles, approximately 7 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Packwood, 4 miles away, is the closest location for groceries, fuel, and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Campground: Coho Group Camp has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the site's privacy, convenient location near highways, and access to scenic trails. Some concerns exist about the lack of potable water and the seasonal nature of certain amenities.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Privacy at campsites, scenic trails, and wildlife opportunities stand out as positives.
Common Concerns
The absence of potable water and unspecified cell phone service availability are noted concerns.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing their own drinking water due to current unavailability and exploring the trails for scenic views.
Seasonal Insights
The campground operates from mid-May to mid-September, aligning with favorable weather for outdoor activities.
Camper Quotes
"Most campsites offer good privacy and are surrounded by old-growth trees." "The trails provide amazing views of waterfalls and the river."
Site-Specific Reviews
The Coho Group Site is highlighted for accommodating larger parties, offering privacy, and being well-located within the campground.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are not available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash. No reviews specify additional pet-friendly features.
Last updated August 10, 2025