Ohanapecosh Group Campground
4.73114 reviews208 Ohanapecosh Road, Packwood, WA, USA, 98361
Ohanapecosh Group Campground
$20.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by type of site and season. Recreation Use Fee applies with additional reservation service fees ranging from $8-$9.
About this campground
Nestled in the enchanting southeast corner of Mount Rainier National Park, Ohanapecosh Group Campground offers an intimate tent-only experience where two secluded group sites await beneath towering old-growth giants. Here, the melodic rush of the Ohanapecosh River provides nature's soundtrack as you settle into a world where ancient forests meet pristine waters, creating the perfect basecamp for your Pacific Northwest adventure.
The Ohanapecosh Group Campground is specifically designed for group camping, with two tent-only group sites available. RVs are not allowed. The campground is part of the larger Ohanapecosh Campground, which also accommodates individual campers.
Historical SignificanceThe very ground beneath your tent whispers stories of the past, as 'Ohanapecosh'—derived from the Taidnapam phrase meaning 'standing on the edge'—speaks to centuries of indigenous connection to this sacred landscape. These ancient forests have witnessed countless generations who found sustenance, shelter, and spiritual renewal among the towering trees and rushing waters that continue to captivate visitors today.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this riverside haven into a temperate paradise, where warm days hover between 60-80°F, inviting endless exploration of nearby trails and waterways. As evening descends, the low elevation and river proximity create refreshingly crisp nights that call for cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags—a reminder that mountain magic comes with its own delightful chill.
ElevationPerched at a gentle 1,914 feet, this riverside sanctuary offers the best of both worlds—accessible mountain beauty without the thin air of higher elevations. This sweet spot creates an ideal microclimate where lush forests thrive, temperatures remain comfortable, and the surrounding peaks feel wonderfully close yet comfortably distant.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a fairy-tale forest where massive Douglas firs stretch skyward, their ancient trunks adorned with emerald moss and delicate ferns. Crystal-clear snow-fed rivers carve through the landscape, their icy waters tumbling over moss-covered boulders that have rested here for millennia. Adventure beckons with nearby treasures like the misty cascade of Silver Falls and the awe-inspiring Grove of the Patriarchs, where trees older than memory stand as living monuments to time itself.
Geological RegionYour campsite rests within the dramatic volcanic landscape of Mount Rainier National Park, where fire and ice have sculpted a masterpiece over millions of years. This glacier-carved wonderland showcases nature's raw power, from the snow-capped volcanic peak that dominates the horizon to the pristine rivers born from its glacial melt, all cradled within vast forests of Douglas fir that blanket the mountainsides in endless green.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility for individuals with disabilities is not explicitly detailed, but the presence of flush toilets and flat campsites suggests some level of accessibility.
Sites SizeEach group site supports up to 25 people, with ample room for tents and recreational activities. A reviewer mentioned, "Plenty of space for three 4-person tents and a couple of smaller tents."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some reviewers noted "cozy sites" and "campsites are close together," while others found the group sites to be more private, depending on their location within the loops.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReserve sites near the river for better views and ambient sounds. Early arrival recommended for Loop A first-come sites.
Best CampsitesGroup site GRP1 in Loop A offers more privacy. Loop C has scenic spots near the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights per visit and 28 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 25 guests per group site.
Groups
Each group site accommodates up to 25 people and is tent-only. Campers commented on the spaciousness, with room for multiple tents, and the proximity to communal facilities such as bathrooms.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo group sites available. Individual loops include A and C, with varying privacy and proximity to amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally, closes October 9th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability in Loop A for individual sites, must arrive early due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online up to the day of check-in with fees applied ($10 cancellation fee + first night's fee for late cancellations).
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Ohanapecosh Group Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, primarily centered around hiking, exploring the nearby Ohanapecosh River, and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding old-growth forest. Popular trails include the Silver Falls Trail and the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail, both easily accessible from the campground. Wildlife observation and family-friendly activities, such as dipping in the river or exploring waterfalls, are frequently highlighted by campers.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are accessible directly from the campground, including the Silver Falls Trail and the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail. These trails vary in difficulty, with the Silver Falls Trail being described as "worth checking out if you have an hour to spare" and the Grove of the Patriarchs offering "cool old-growth forests."Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Ohanapecosh River. A reviewer recommended "get up early and fish before the swimming starts!"Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available in the Ohanapecosh River, with campers enjoying "large pools" and "jumping into the river from boulders." However, the water is described as "cold" due to its snow-fed origin.Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding areas offer ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, including birding. One camper mentioned waking up to "the sound of birds."Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground hosts ranger-led evening talks at an amphitheater, typically held at 8:30 PM. These programs cover various natural and cultural topics.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is primarily operational during the warmer months.Water Sports
Limited to non-motorized activities like swimming and wading in the river.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Gathering firewood prohibited. Fire pits available at each site.
- Quiet hours observed, typically from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, as noted in reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsGeological hazards include flooding, landslides, and rock falls. Wildlife precautions required.
Active alertsHazard tree closures affect some sites.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
Nearest emergency services are in the town of Packwood, approximately 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly to August.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground. Visitors commented on the ease of disposing of waste and recycling materials.
Proximity to water featuresNear the Ohanapecosh River, offering cold, clear water for recreation. No swimming facilities but natural pools available.
Common complaintsSites are close together in certain loops. Limited privacy and occasional shortages of supplies such as paper towels.
HostRangers provide assistance but no dedicated campground hosts. Visitor center nearby with informational support.
Campground Map
208 Ohanapecosh Road, Packwood, WA, USA, 98361
Driving directionsLocated on State Route 123, four miles north of State Route 12.
Seasonal, accessible via State Route 123. Suitable for cars, no RVs in group sites.Nearby places
Packwood (10 miles, 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Packwood, including food, fuel, and camping gear.
Camper Reviews
4.7
114 reviews
Ohanapecosh Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Ohanapecosh Group Campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, including old-growth forests and the snow-fed Ohanapecosh River. Common highlights include access to numerous hiking trails, spacious group sites, and a peaceful atmosphere. However, some visitors noted that privacy and spacing between campsites could be improved.
Review Summaries
Based on 114 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praised the "beautiful old-growth forest," "easy access to hiking trails," and "clean and well-stocked facilities." The spacious group sites were appreciated for gatherings, and the natural...
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Common Concerns
Criticisms focused on the lack of showers, "tight spacing between campsites," and occasional issues with bathroom cleanliness. Some users also mentioned the absence of cell service and the need to...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bug spray, warm clothing for cool nights, and arriving early for first-come, first-serve sites. They also suggest reserving sites with river views if available and...
Based on 114 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60-80°F. July and August are especially favored for wildflower viewing, though mosquitoes can be an issue. Fall brings...
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Camper Quotes
"The river near the camping ground is very exciting! Very clear, very blue, very green, very rapid and very cold!" "This was the best group campsite we've ever stayed at, plenty of room for our party...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Group sites GRP1 and GRP2 were frequently praised for their spaciousness and location. GRP1 in Loop A was described as more private, while GRP2 in Loop C was noted for its proximity to hiking trails...
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Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were noted, though the presence of well-maintained facilities suggests some level of accessibility.
Based on 114 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews mentioned pet-related experiences.
Based on 114 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025