Big Creek Campground
4.3145 reviewsBig Creek Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$20 per night for single campsites, includes two vehicles. An additional $5 per night for extra passenger vehicles. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount for the campsite occupied by the pass holder. Boat, horse, and recreation trailers are not considered passenger vehicles.
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About this campground
Nestled in a thriving second-growth forest where towering evergreens create a natural cathedral, Big Creek Campground invites you to disconnect and immerse yourself in the Pacific Northwest's raw beauty. This 64-site haven serves as your gateway to Olympic National Park's southeast entrance, where each campsite is thoughtfully tucked among a tapestry of ferns and native shrubs that ensure peaceful solitude. While embracing a pack-it-in, pack-it-out philosophy that preserves this pristine environment, you'll find essential amenities including vault toilets and fresh potable water. Adventure beckons right from your tent flap, with hiking trails threading through the forest, including direct access to the spectacular Mt. Ellinor Scenic Trail.
Big Creek Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and group day-use areas. The campground offers excellent privacy and a natural setting that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts.
Historical SignificanceBig Creek Campground stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the Olympic wilderness, serving generations of adventurers as the perfect basecamp for exploring the legendary Staircase entrance to Olympic National Park. These ancient trails have witnessed countless stories – from early settlers navigating the rugged terrain to modern-day hikers seeking the same sense of wonder. The surrounding Olympic National Forest represents one of America's great conservation success stories, where the campground continues to play a vital role in connecting people with the protected wilderness that defines the Pacific Northwest.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through Labor Day, Big Creek transforms into a temperate paradise where morning mist dances through the canopy and afternoon sunlight filters through ancient branches. The Olympic Peninsula's signature cool, moist climate creates perfect hiking weather during peak season, with comfortable temperatures that make both daytime adventures and evening campfires equally enjoyable. While winter brings a hushed beauty of snow and crystalline cold to the higher elevations, the campground closes to allow nature its quiet season of renewal. Spring arrives with a burst of green as ferns unfurl and wildflowers dot the forest floor, signaling the return of camping season.
ElevationPerched at 920 feet above sea level, Big Creek occupies a sweet spot in the Olympic foothills where the mountain air stays refreshingly cool even on summer days. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate for both relaxation and recreation – high enough to escape the lowland heat, yet accessible enough to serve as a comfortable launching point for more ambitious mountain adventures. The gentle elevation provides just enough vertical relief to keep your lungs working on nearby trails while ensuring comfortable nights of sleep under the stars.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted realm where massive Douglas firs and aromatic cedars rise like ancient pillars, their bark adorned with emerald moss and delicate lichen that glow in the filtered sunlight. The forest floor beneath these gentle giants creates a living carpet of sword ferns and native shrubs, while bigleaf maples paint the understory with golden brilliance each fall. Big Creek itself provides the soundtrack to your stay, its crystal-clear waters burbling alongside the campground in a timeless mountain melody. This second-growth forest demonstrates nature's remarkable resilience, offering glimpses of the primeval beauty that once blanketed the entire Olympic Peninsula.
Geological RegionCarved into the dramatic landscape beneath the watchful presence of Mt. Ellinor and within reach of the sparkling waters of Lake Cushman, Big Creek Campground occupies a remarkable corner of the Olympic National Forest. This geological wonderland showcases the powerful forces that shaped the Olympic Mountains – from ancient tectonic collisions to the patient work of glaciers and streams. The surrounding terrain tells a story written in stone and soil, where second-growth forests of cedar and Douglas fir have reclaimed the land, creating a resilient ecosystem. The perpetually moist, cool environment nurtures a distinctly Pacific Northwest landscape where moss-draped trees and autumn-painted maples create a photographer's paradise.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground's accessibility features include vault toilets; however, there is no indication of wheelchair-friendly facilities.
Sites SizeThe campsites are spacious and can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 36 feet in length. Some sites are larger and better suited for families or groups.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are well-spaced and secluded due to the dense understory, providing good to excellent privacy. Reviews highlight the peaceful and private nature of the campground.
Total Campsites65 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 17-22 are larger and suitable for families. Site 50 provides water access and privacy.
Best CampsitesSite 17 is described as level and site 50 offers water access and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No official check-in time mentioned.
Check-out
No official check-out time mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite allows two vehicles and additional passenger vehicles for a charge.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutMulti-loop layout with good to excellent privacy between sites due to vegetation. Some sites grouped in clusters around gathering areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from mid-May through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations not available. First-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityYes, the campground is first-come, first-served. User reviews mention availability even on busy weekends.
Cancellation PolicyReservations not available, so cancellation policies are not applicable.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Big Creek Campground offers a mix of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, mountain climbing, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Lake Cushman and Olympic National Park add to the variety of activities available.
Hiking
The campground features hiking trails such as the Big Creek Campground Loop Trail (1.1 miles) and the Upper Big Creek Loop Trail (4 miles), which connects to the Mt. Ellinor Trail. These trails vary in difficulty and provide scenic views of the surrounding forest.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at nearby Lake Cushman, where anglers can catch kokanee salmon and various trout species.Wildlife viewing
The campground's forested setting provides opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Specific species are not mentioned, but the environment supports a diverse ecosystem.Winter Activities
The campground closes during the winter months, limiting winter-specific recreational activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not specifically mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM onwards.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention issues with rowdy campers and safety concerns during holiday weekends. Wildlife encounters may include slugs and other forest creatures.
Active alertsUser reviews mention winter closures and unlocked bathrooms for off-season visitors.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
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
Emergency services are not directly mentioned. However, Mason County Sheriff's Department responded to incidents in the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay to October.
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy, meaning campers are responsible for managing their own trash and recycling. No dedicated trash or recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresBig Creek runs adjacent to the campground. Lake Cushman is nearby and offers fishing and water recreation.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include noisy neighbors, management issues with camp hosts, and sometimes overcrowded conditions on holiday weekends. Vault toilets are occasionally described as unpleasant.
HostMixed reviews on camp hosts, ranging from friendly to unkind and overly restrictive.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Hoodsport, WA turn west onto State Route 119 (from Highway 101) and drive 9 miles to the junction with Forest Service Road 24. Turn left and travel 100 yards. The entrance to Big Creek Campground is on the right side of the road.
The campground is accessed via paved roads from Highway 101 and State Route 119. No seasonal road closures are mentioned.Nearby places
Hoodsport: 9 miles, approximately 15-20 minutes drive. Lake Cushman State Park: approximately 2 miles south.
Nearby supplies
Lake Cushman Grocery (approximately 11-minute drive) and Hood Canal Grocery in Hoodsport (approximately 16 minutes) for firewood and other camping needs.
Camper Reviews
4.3
45 reviews
Big Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with many campers praising the campground's natural beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to hiking trails. Concerns about management, noise, and cleanliness have also been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 45 reviews
What Campers Love
Users commonly highlight the campground's clean facilities, spacious and private campsites, and its beautiful natural surroundings. 'The hike loop is gorgeous and well-maintained, reason enough for a...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with noisy or rowdy campers, unhelpful camp hosts, and occasional cleanliness issues with vault toilets. 'The camp hosts themselves were the most unkind I’ve ever met.'
Based on 45 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing your own firewood and being prepared for a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy. Hikers are advised to take a photo of the trail map to avoid getting lost.
Based on 45 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busier during peak seasons (May to October), and some users report more noise and crowding on holiday weekends. Outside of peak seasons, it is described as quiet and peaceful.
Based on 45 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The vault toilets, far less awful than I expected, have decent ventilation and are kept stocked with toilet paper.' 2. 'The sites are clean and well maintained!' 3. 'We left because we did not...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 50 is mentioned as providing good privacy and proximity to water sources. Sites 17-22 are noted as being larger and suitable for families.
Based on 45 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the lack of wheelchair-friendly facilities may pose challenges.
Based on 45 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on leashes, and users with dogs report positive experiences. 'Dog friendly, so my pups had a great time.'
Based on 45 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025