Seal Rock Campground
4.3836 reviewsSeal Rock Campground, US Highway 101, Brinnon, WA
Seal Rock Campground
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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
$18 per night for single units; $5 per extra vehicle. Interagency Senior/Access passes provide a 50% discount on single sites occupied by pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Hood Canal, Seal Rock Campground offers a rare Pacific Northwest treasure—one of the few national forest campgrounds where the forest meets the sea. Here, 41 thoughtfully spaced campsites wind through towering evergreens, with some sites opening directly onto the waterfront where you can harvest fresh oysters at low tide. Whether you're settling into a cozy tent spot or parking your RV beneath the canopy, you'll find modern comforts including flush toilets, clean drinking water, sturdy picnic tables, and fire pits perfect for evening gatherings. Accessible paved sites ensure everyone can experience this coastal paradise.
Seal Rock Campground offers a mix of camping options, including tent and RV camping. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceFor nearly a millennium, the waters and shores of Hood Canal have sustained generations of people who understood the rhythms of tide and season. Today, interpretive trails wind through the campground, revealing stories of the Native American communities who first called this place home and unveiling the fascinating marine biology that continues to thrive in these protected waters. Each step along these paths connects visitors to centuries of human history intertwined with the natural world.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings gentle warmth to Hood Canal, with comfortable temperatures ideal for beachcombing and forest exploration. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a misty wonderland, while winter delivers the rhythmic patter of Northwest rain on tent flies and RV roofs. The rocky beaches reveal their treasures year-round, and cooling breezes from the canal provide natural air conditioning on warmer days, carrying the salt-sweet scent of the sea through the campground.
ElevationPerched 100 feet above the sparkling waters of Hood Canal, the campground cascades down a gentle hillside through a series of natural terraces. This unique topography creates an amphitheater effect, with each tier offering its own perspective of the canal below—from bird's-eye views at the upper sites to beachfront access at the water's edge.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to panoramic views of Hood Canal's glassy waters stretching toward the southeastern mountains, their peaks catching the first light of dawn. The campground itself is a sanctuary of old-growth shade, where dense forests create private havens among the sites. Native shrubs form natural screens between neighbors, while breaks in the canopy frame postcard-perfect vistas of the canal and distant mountain ranges. This is where the temperate rainforest meets the sea in spectacular fashion.
Geological RegionSeal Rock Campground claims a front-row seat on Hood Canal, a remarkable saltwater fjord carved by ancient glaciers within Olympic National Forest. This unique marine ecosystem teems with life—from beds of plump oysters and tender clams waiting to be harvested, to seals that give the campground its name. The convergence of forest and fjord creates one of the most biologically diverse camping experiences in the Pacific Northwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has three paved accessible units and wheelchair-accessible restroom facilities. Additionally, there are two accessible interpretive trails within the day-use area.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary, accommodating tents and smaller RVs up to 21 feet in length. Pull-through sites are available but narrow and suited for smaller RVs.
Sites Privacy"Most sites are pretty secluded," while the upper loop is closer to the highway and may experience some traffic noise. Vegetation such as ferns and shrubs provide privacy between sites.
Total Campsites41 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites along Hood Canal for views and proximity to the beach. Avoid upper loops close to the highway due to road noise.
Best CampsitesSites along Hood Canal are noted for their views, such as site #19 mentioned directly in a user review.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
First-come, first-served.
Check-out
No specific time listed.
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
8person maximum capacity per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThree overlapping loops terraced on a hillside. Sites are mostly bi-level with parking on one level and tent pads on another.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen late April through late September.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; reservations are not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served, as reservations are not accepted.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation policy; first-come, first-served. Rules indicate campers must occupy their site within the first 24 hours.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities, primarily centered around its unique saltwater location. Visitors can enjoy non-motorized boating, swimming, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Notable highlights include the harvestable oysters along the shore and designated interpretive trails.
Hiking
Seal Rock Trail System features accessible, interpretive trails, including the 0.8-mile Seal Rock Trail, the 0.3-mile Native American Trail, and the 0.5-mile Marine Biology Trail. These trails are wheelchair-friendly and provide educational signage.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include Hood Canal's renowned steelhead, cutthroat trout, and Pacific salmon. The area is also famous for its oysters and steamer clams, available for harvest with a permit.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in the saltwater Hood Canal, but safety measures are not explicitly provided. The beach is described as "very rocky," which may impact accessibility.Boating
Non-motorized boating activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular. However, there are no dedicated boat ramps or power boating facilities on-site.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is a popular activity, with sightings including bald eagles, herons, and other seabirds. The campground's location on Hood Canal provides excellent opportunities for viewing marine life and shoreline wildlife.Beach activities
Beach activities include oyster harvesting and picnicking. However, the rocky nature of the beach limits traditional activities like sunbathing.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive trails offer educational opportunities covering Native American history and marine biology.Winter Activities
No winter activities are specified due to the seasonal closure.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities exist, but there are no facilities for water skiing or power boating.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Burn bans are occasionally in effect; propane fire pits permitted during bans.
- Quiet hours are "Quiet and secluded location, especially during off-season."
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak noted on trails. Tide on the beach comes in quickly; campers should monitor changing tides.
Active alertsNone reported.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Ranger Station in Brinnon, WA; nearest hospital located in nearby larger cities like Shelton or Bremerton, WA.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate April to late September.
Trash and recyclingGarbage cans are spaced throughout the campground, but there is no specific mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Hood Canal; access to oyster harvesting and clamming.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention maintenance issues, such as bathrooms needing attention and inconsistency in enforcing rules. Road noise reported in upper loops.
HostHosts are noted as friendly but reportedly overwhelmed by maintenance duties. Some reviews report mixed experiences with host behavior.
Campground Map
Seal Rock Campground, US Highway 101, Brinnon, WA
Driving directionsFrom Brinnon, WA, take US Route 101 north 0.5 miles to the campground sign. Turn right into the campground.
"The roads are paved, as well as the accessible sites." It is located off US Highway 101, making it easily accessible.Nearby places
Brinnon (0.5 miles, approximately 2 minutes)
Staircase (33 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Dosewallips State Park (approximately 10 miles, 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Dosewallips State Park (fee-based waste station and potable water)
small stores in Brinnon, WA (several miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.4
36 reviews
Seal Rock Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Seal Rock Campground is positively reviewed for its scenic views, proximity to water, and unique activities such as oyster harvesting. Some visitors commented on its quiet and secluded atmosphere, especially during the off-season. However, there are concerns about maintenance and the campground host's management style.
Review Summaries
Based on 36 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the flush toilets, potable water, secluded campsites, and scenic views of Hood Canal. "You'll feel lucky at any of these campsites... beautiful, remote, private & affordable," said...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include 'dated' restrooms, a rocky beach that might not be suitable for small children, and inconsistent rule enforcement by the campground host. A user stated, "The campground is a bit...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors highly recommend arriving early during peak season due to the campground's first-come, first-served policy. They also advise bringing cash for payment and being prepared for rocky conditions...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is described as picturesque and serene during the off-season, with fewer crowds and quiet evenings. However, it can be busy and noisy on weekends during the peak summer months.
Based on 36 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Great campground for tent camping. Most sites are pretty secluded." 2. "A beautiful place to camp. It's like camping in an enchanted forest." 3. "On a clear day, you can see Mount Rainier in the...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #19 received specific mention in a review detailing an issue with rule enforcement and site takeover. This incident highlighted potential challenges with the campground's first-come,...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews commend the wheelchair-accessible restroom facilities and paved campsites. The interpretive trails are also highlighted as being wheelchair-friendly.
Based on 36 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed in the campground but not on the beach. Some visitors praised the pet-friendly pathways near the beach, while others warned about poison oak in the area.
Based on 36 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025