Collins Campground
4.4825 reviewsCollins Campground
$3.00 - $10.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees are variable: Recreation Use fees depend on location and activity. Reservation fees range from $3 (in-person) to $8 (online/app) or $9 (via contact center).
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About this campground
Nestled alongside the pristine Duckabush River, Collins Campground offers an intimate escape into the Pacific Northwest wilderness with just 16 thoughtfully placed campsites. This peaceful retreat welcomes both tent campers and RV adventurers, with 10 versatile sites accommodating everything from pop-up trailers to motorhomes, plus 6 dedicated tent-only spots perfect for those seeking a more traditional camping experience. The gentle sounds of the river create a natural soundtrack for most sites, with private access points leading directly to the water's edge—though two sites sit slightly back from the riverbank, offering a quieter forest setting for those who prefer distance from the water's constant conversation.
Collins Campground is a primitive and serene camping area that accommodates a mix of camping styles. It is particularly suited for those seeking a quiet and rustic experience.
Weather and SeasonsCollins Campground embraces the authentic Pacific Northwest climate, where misty mornings and the patter of rain on tent flies create the quintessential Olympic Peninsula experience. During peak winter weeks, temperatures hover between a crisp 39°F at night and a mild 47°F during the day, with nature's drama unfolding through heavy rainfall and occasional dustings of snow. Moderate winds averaging 5.42 mph occasionally crescendo to exciting 21.5 mph gusts that set the forest canopy dancing—a reminder that you're camping in one of the most dynamically beautiful regions of the country.
ElevationNo explicit elevation data provided.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a fairytale forest where ancient trees draped in emerald moss create living cathedral walls along the Duckabush River. The campground's crown jewel is its riverside location, where crystal-clear waters cascade over rocky outcrops, creating mesmerizing rapids and small waterfalls that provide both visual splendor and a soothing natural symphony. Morning mist rises from the river to mingle with towering evergreens, while afternoon light filters through the canopy, illuminating the velvet moss that blankets nearly every surface in this enchanted corner of the Olympic National Forest.
Geological RegionCollins Campground sits within the magnificent Olympic National Forest, where the Duckabush River has carved its course through ancient geological formations over millennia. This temperate rainforest ecosystem showcases nature's artistry through dramatic water features—swift rapids carved through bedrock and cascading waterfalls that demonstrate the river's patient sculpting power. The pervasive moss coverage throughout the forest creates a soft, green wonderland that speaks to the region's abundant moisture and mild temperatures, making this corner of the Olympic Peninsula a textbook example of Pacific Northwest temperate rainforest ecology at its finest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeCampsites are of varying sizes, with 10 sites accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs, and six designated tent sites with parking spurs.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a relatively good level of privacy, with many sites located near the river. Several reviews highlight the secluded and quiet nature of the campsite.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites that provide river access and privacy are highly recommended. Arrive early for first-come, first-served spots, especially during weekends.
Best CampsitesSites 8 and 11 are considered the best, offering private river access and ideal locations.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No formal limit stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two cars permitted per campsite.
Groups
No group sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout is a small loop with narrow roads featuring potholes. Campsites tend to be organized in pairs, making them suitable for groups.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platform is available as the campground is strictly first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served policy applies. Reviewers recommend arriving on a Thursday or early Friday for the best chance of securing a campsite.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made on the day before arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's fee. No refunds or modifications are allowed for Scan & Pay payments and late cancellations.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Collins Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities in a serene and scenic setting, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Duckabush River. Visitors also mention nearby trailheads and cold swimming spots upstream.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available near the campground, with some trailheads located close by. Specific trail details are not provided in the source material.Swimming
Upstream from the campground, there is a cold swimming spot mentioned by users. However, the swift rapids and waterfalls in the Duckabush River make it unsuitable for floating. Extreme caution is advised near the water.Wildlife viewing
Some user reviews highlight the natural beauty and tranquility of the area, which is conducive to wildlife viewing. No specific details about the types of wildlife are provided.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, though the campground's remote location and lack of services may limit its usability in winter months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not advised due to the dangerous conditions of the river, including swift currents and rapids.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within campsite fire rings. Extreme caution is recommended due to proximity to the forest and river.
Hazards
General hazardsThe Duckabush River is hazardous with swift water, rapids, and waterfalls. One review warned, 'River contains swift water, rapids, and waterfalls. River is not floatable. Use extreme caution.'
Active alertsRoads in the area are susceptible to washouts; one user noted 'the road was washed out earlier this year.' Vault toilets may be closed during certain periods.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.4 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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available on-site. Campers are expected to pack out all their trash.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on the Duckabush River. Most campsites offer private river access. A cold swim spot is located upstream from the campground.
Common complaintsComplaints include filthy bathrooms, noisy campers, 'tweakers' taking over parts of the grounds, overcrowding during peak periods, and vault toilets smelling bad or being out of service. Multiple reviews noted issues with road conditions.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Hoodsport, WA travel US Highway 101 north for approximately 22 miles to the Duckabush Recreation Area. Turn west onto the Duckabush River Road/Forest Service Road #2510. Drive 5 miles to the entrance of Collins Campground which is located on the left side of the road.
The road consists of 3.5 miles of paved road and 1.5 miles of good dirt road. However, roads in the area have a history of washing out; one user noted 'the road was washed out earlier this year but has since been regraded and reopened.'Camper Reviews
4.5
25 reviews
Collins Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Collins Campground receives generally positive reviews, with an average sentiment rating of 4.24 for campgrounds and 4.48 overall. Campers appreciate the tranquil setting, proximity to the river, and the secluded nature of the campsites. However, some complaints include the lack of potable water, occasional maintenance issues with the vault toilets, noisy campers, and overcrowding during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the campground's peaceful environment, scenic river views, and the sound of the river. Comments such as 'great ambiance' and 'most sites are right on the river' are common. Visitors...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes complaints about the cleanliness and maintenance of vault toilets, closures of facilities, noisy and disruptive campers, and the presence of 'tweakers.' Some reviews...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early, particularly on Thursdays, to secure a site due to the first-come, first-served policy. Bringing potable water and being prepared for a lack of amenities (e.g.,...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is more crowded during weekends and peak seasons; quieter times are mid-week. Summer months appear to be the most popular for visits. Some users note the need to layer up during colder...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Fabulous spot on the beautiful Duckabush River.' - Jonathan Kuzma
2. 'Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire pit with a cast iron grill on top for cooking.' - Marcus Padilla
3. 'The potholes...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 8 and 11 are highlighted as the best options due to their privacy and proximity to the river. Most sites have private river access, but some are grouped in pairs, making them ideal for visitors...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features or experiences for disabled campers.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025