Klahowya Campground
4.5647 reviewsnull
Klahowya Campground
$17.00 - $17.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$17.00
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
Rates are $17 per day for a standard campsite according to user reviews.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine south shore of the Sol Duc River, Klahowya Campground invites you into the heart of an enchanting Pacific Northwest rainforest. Here, meandering interpretive trails wind through ancient trees, revealing the secrets of this lush ecosystem. Cast a line into the crystal-clear river waters, spread out a picnic beneath towering canopies, or spend lazy summer afternoons floating between Sites 9 and 45 on an unforgettable tubing adventure. As evening falls, gather at the amphitheater where seasonal naturalist programs bring the forest's stories to life under a canopy of stars.
Klahowya Campground offers first-come, first-served campsites suitable for tent camping and small RVs. The sites are rustic and nestled in a rain forest setting, providing a natural camping experience.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsTrue to its rainforest character, Klahowya experiences nature's full symphony of weather, with certain weeks bringing dramatic downpours that nourish the verdant landscape. The misty atmosphere and cool temperatures create an authentic Pacific Northwest experience year-round. Summer emerges as the golden season, when gentler rains give way to perfect conditions for river tubing, trail exploration, and long evenings around the campfire.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a cathedral of ancient giants where old-growth trees stretch skyward, their massive trunks telling stories of centuries past. The Sol Duc River flows alongside the campground, its melodic waters providing a constant soundtrack to your stay. Each spacious campsite offers its own private sanctuary among the towering evergreens, where moss-draped branches create natural privacy screens and the forest floor is carpeted in ferns. This is camping as it should be – immersed in untouched wilderness where every view feels like a postcard from the Pacific Northwest.
Geological RegionKlahowya rests within the extraordinary Olympic National Forest, where the Sol Duc River has carved its path through one of the world's few temperate rainforests. This rare ecosystem represents a geological wonder where ocean moisture meets mountain terrain, creating the perfect conditions for a lush, emerald wilderness unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features an accessible interpretive nature trail.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as large enough to accommodate multiple tents. Many are spacious and suitable for families.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are largely private, with some offering seclusion through natural vegetation or distance from neighboring sites.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early for the best selection, particularly around noon on Sundays when turnover is high. Sites near the river are highly coveted for their scenic views and tranquility.
Best CampsitesSite 33 is highlighted by a user review as one of the best, featuring river access, privacy, and ambient river sounds. Sites 30-40 are recommended for proximity to flushing toilets.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
14:00
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground is composed of large, private campsites nestled among trees. Sites are arranged in loops with some offering direct river access.
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsReservations not available as the campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve basis with availability varying by day and time. Saturdays are reported to be busiest, while Sundays offer more options.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies outlined for recreation.gov include a $10 fee for cancellation before arrival. Late cancellations forfeit first night's fee and incur additional penalties.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of nature-based activities, including fishing, hiking, tubing in the river during summer months, wildlife viewing, and interpretive programs in the amphitheater. The Sol Duc River and surrounding rain forest add to the recreational appeal.
Hiking
Numerous trails are available for exploration, including an accessible interpretive nature trail within the campground.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Sol Duc River. Visitors have noted good fishing opportunities, with reports of steelhead in the area.Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available in the Sol Duc River, particularly in a deep swimming hole created by a river bend. The water is described as crystal clear and safe in designated areas.Wildlife viewing
The campground's rain forest setting offers opportunities for observing local wildlife in their natural habitat.Cultural and Educational Programs
During the summer, interpretive programs are hosted in the campground's amphitheater, providing educational insights about the local ecosystem and history.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits are available at campsites. Firewood can be purchased on-site (cash only).
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitos are noted as a nuisance by reviewers. Limited cellular service for Verizon users.
Active alertsNo specific alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.3 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
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available within walking or driving distance of the campsites.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Sol Duc River with some sites offering waterfront access. River activities like tubing and swimming are popular during summer months.
Common complaintsBathrooms are often described as smelling bad and being poorly maintained (e.g., lack of locks or toilet paper). Lack of showers is an inconvenience for some campers. Reports of loud vehicles circling the campground during one user visit.
HostA campground host is available and described as friendly and helpful by reviewers.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Forks, WA travel northeast on US Highway 101 for 20 miles. Klahowya Campground is north of of US Highway 101, near milepost 212.
Accessible via US Highway 101. No specific seasonal closures or terrain issues mentioned.Nearby places
Forks, WA (20 miles northeast, approximately 25-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.6
47 reviews
Klahowya Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Klahowya Campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, large and private campsites, and proximity to the Sol Duc River. Visitors frequently describe the campground as peaceful and secluded, with some calling it 'magical' and 'a hidden gem'.
Review Summaries
Based on 47 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the spacious and private sites, the proximity to the river, and the natural rain forest setting. Many reviewers also praised the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes the lack of showers, occasional restroom maintenance issues (e.g., lack of toilet paper and unpleasant odors), and limited cell phone service. Some visitors noted that...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early, preferably around noon, for the best chance to secure a preferred campsite. Bring cash for the self-pay system and firewood purchases. Also, consider bringing your own water if unsure...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest season, with the river offering tubing and swimming opportunities. Spring and fall are quieter but still enjoyable. Winter conditions are not discussed in reviews.
Based on 47 reviewsCamper Quotes
'What a gem of a campground!' - Eleanor Dotson. 'Campsites are large, private, and beautiful and many are right next to the river.' - Joceline Vu. 'Hands down the most beautiful campground I've ever...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 33 is highlighted multiple times for its privacy, river access, and scenic views. Sites near the river (e.g., 9 and 45) are also recommended for tubing opportunities during summer.
Based on 47 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground features an accessible interpretive trail, but no additional reviews specifically addressing accessibility were found.
Based on 47 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025