La Wis Wis Campground
4.29221 reviews,
La Wis Wis Campground
$27.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$27.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$50.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$27.00
Group Site Fee$115.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $27 for standard nonelectric and tent sites to $50 for premium riverside tent sites during peak season. Additional vehicle fee is $8.00 per night. Group site fees are $115 per night.
About this campground
Discover your perfect basecamp at La Wis Wis Campground, where 122 thoughtfully designed sites await beneath ancient forest canopies just moments from Mount Rainier National Park. Whether you're seeking a secluded walk-in tent site, gathering with friends at spacious group areas, or parking your RV in the convenient Hatchery Loop, this beloved destination offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with nature, featuring both vault and flush toilets, sturdy picnic tables, protective shelters, and grills for memorable campfire meals. While the Hatchery Loop offers limited water access, drinking water flows freely throughout the main campground areas.
La Wis Wis Campground accommodates various camping styles, including primitive, RV, tent, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living legacy within the storied Gifford Pinchot National Forest, where every trail tells tales of America's conservation awakening. This protected landscape bears witness to the visionary efforts that shaped our national forest system and stands as a testament to the preservation movement that birthed the nearby Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, forever linking La Wis Wis to the greater story of Pacific Northwest conservation.
Weather and SeasonsTime your adventure perfectly during the glorious peak season from May 23 through September 20, when warm sunshine filters through the forest canopy and gentle breezes carry the scent of cedar and fir. These temperate summer months invite endless exploration, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland best admired from afar, as freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall make camping unsuitable during the colder months.
ElevationPerched in the dramatic foothills approaching mighty Mount Rainier, La Wis Wis occupies a sweet spot in the mountainous terrain where alpine grandeur meets accessible adventure. Though the exact elevation remains nature's secret, campers will feel the crisp mountain air and experience the unique ecosystem that thrives in this transitional zone between lowland forests and high alpine meadows.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in an enchanted realm where ancient Douglas firs and majestic red cedars create nature's own cathedral, their towering forms sheltering a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. Crystal-clear rivers wind through the campground, inviting quiet contemplation and wildlife watching at dawn and dusk. Adventure beckons along nearby trails that reveal hidden treasures like the thundering cascade of Purcell Falls and the crystalline waters of Blue Hole, a natural swimming paradise that offers refreshing relief on warm summer days.
Geological RegionLa Wis Wis sits at nature's crossroads in the pristine Tatoosh Wilderness, where three mighty waterways - the Ohanapecosh River, Cowlitz River, and Purcell Creek - converge in a spectacular display of Pacific Northwest hydrology. This remarkable confluence within Gifford Pinchot National Forest has nurtured an extraordinary old-growth ecosystem for centuries, where colossal Douglas firs and aromatic red cedars create a living monument to southwest Washington's wild heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited, with some reviews noting that campsite signage is unclear and that vault toilets are available but poorly maintained.
Sites SizeSites vary greatly in size, ranging from small tent-only sites to larger group sites. Several reviews mention that sites near the river are more spacious and desirable.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies significantly. Riverfront sites are described as more open, while others are well-shaded and secluded.
Total Campsites122 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose riverside sites for scenic views (e.g., loops A and D). Avoid Hatchery Loop if not using an RV.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites include A19, D18M, and C14 for their proximity to rivers and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Max guests per site vary
- typically 6-12 guests depending on site type.
Groups
Group Standard Nonelectric sites are available, accommodating up to 12 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of multiple loops, including Hatchery Loop for RVs, and walk-in tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to September 20 (peak season) with no bookings from September 20 to June 5 (off-season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityA limited number of first-come-first-served sites are available; these fill quickly during weekends and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's use fee. Group site cancellations within 14 days of arrival also forfeit the first night.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
La Wis Wis Campground provides access to various outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Key trails like the Blue Hole Trail and Purcell Falls Trail are nearby, and the Ohanapecosh River offers swimming opportunities. The campground's old-growth forest provides a serene environment for nature observation.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the Blue Hole Trail and Purcell Falls Trail, which are easily accessible from the campground. User reviews frequently praise the variety of trails and the scenic beauty.Fishing
Fishing is available in Butter Creek and Skate Creek, with potential catches including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and whitefish.Swimming
Swimming areas include the Blue Hole, a popular spot near the Ohanapecosh River. Reviews note that the water is cold, even in summer, and rocky terrain requires water shoes.Wildlife viewing
The campground's old-growth forest provides opportunities for observing a variety of wildlife species.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as swimming and tubing are popular activities at the Blue Hole.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but may be restricted during fire bans. Firewood is sold on-site for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsCold river water can be dangerous for swimming. Wildlife may pose risks, and poison ivy is noted in some reviews.
Active alertsAs of May 2025, there is no water available on-site. Campers should bring their own water supply.
Weather forecast
96
°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
Closest emergency services are located in Packwood, including basic medical care and police services. More specialized emergency services are found in larger towns nearby.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available throughout the campground, but some reviews note that they were overflowing during busy weekends, raising concerns about maintenance.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near three waterways: Ohanapecosh River, Cowlitz River, and Purcell Creek. Swimming spots like Blue Hole are accessible.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include unclean or overfilled toilets, campsite overcrowding, and issues with campground management or hosts.
HostHosts are usually helpful but have received mixed reviews regarding attentiveness and demeanor.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Packwood, Washington, go 5 miles east on State Route 12 to Campground.
The campground is accessible via State Route 12, which is a major road. However, some reviews note that the internal roads within the campground can be narrow and challenging to navigate, especially for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Packwood (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes by car)
Mount Rainier National Park (28 miles, approximately 45 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Packwood, which is 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
221 reviews
La Wis Wis Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty of La Wis Wis Campground but also raise issues with restroom facilities, campsite privacy, and maintenance. Positive mentions include the scenic riverfront sites, spacious campsites, and proximity to hiking trails. Negative feedback often points to overflowing trash bins, poorly maintained vault toilets, and campsite disputes.
Review Summaries
Based on 221 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback celebrates the campground's scenic setting, especially riverside sites and proximity to Mount Rainier National Park. Reviews often praise the friendly camp hosts, clean campsites,...
Based on 221 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor maintenance of restroom facilities, overflowing trash bins, noise from large groups, and issues with campsite reservations. Some reviewers describe conflicts with...
Based on 221 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer due to inconsistent restroom maintenance. Water shoes are advised for swimming in the rocky Blue Hole. Arrive early to secure better sites, and consider...
Based on 221 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with reviews highlighting crowded conditions and maintenance issues during peak times. Fall reviews often note quieter conditions and beautiful foliage. Winter...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautifully located Campground almost at the gates of Mt Rainier National Park.' - Rich KR
2. 'Some of the bathrooms are perfect and some stink pretty bad.' - Jonathan Melusky
3. 'The campground...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Popular sites include A23, noted for its riverside location, and C15, described as secluded but farther from restrooms. Site H12 received negative reviews for being small and noisy due to nearby...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility is limited, with some reviews noting poorly marked sites and distant restroom facilities.
Based on 221 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific pet-related reviews were identified.
Based on 221 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025