Bark Shanty Campsite

For those in Washington State who truly appreciate the tranquility and challenge of a hike-in camping experience, Bark Shanty Campsite offers an idyllic destination. Situated along the renowned Lower Big Quilcene Trail, deep within the beauty of the Olympic National Forest near Quilcene, this primitive campsite provides a genuine escape from the modern world. It’s a place where the sounds of the Big Quilcene River replace traffic noise, and towering old-growth trees create a natural cathedral overhead.

Bark Shanty is not a drive-up campground with extensive amenities; rather, it’s a reward for those willing to embark on a scenic approximately 2.6-mile walk along a well-maintained trail. This makes it particularly appealing to backpackers, hikers, and anyone seeking a deeper connection with nature. Reviews consistently praise its cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it. If you're looking to truly disconnect, witness pristine wilderness, and embrace a first-come, first-served camping adventure, Bark Shanty Campsite is a must-visit in Washington.

Bark Shanty Campsite is located at NF-27, Quilcene, WA 98376, USA. However, it's crucial for visitors to understand that this is not a drive-up campsite. Access to Bark Shanty is primarily via a hike along the Lower Big Quilcene Trail. The trailhead for the Lower Big Quilcene River is your starting point.

To reach the trailhead from Quilcene, you would typically drive south on US-101 for about 1.5 miles. From there, you'll generally turn onto a road (often FS Road 27) that leads to the Lower Big Quilcene River Trailhead. While much of this access road is paved, sections can be gravel, but as of recent reports, it is generally sedan-feasible. Be mindful that the brown sign pointing to the trailhead may be damaged, and GPS systems can sometimes be misleading for forest trailheads, so it's always wise to consult a detailed map and cross-reference directions before heading out. Parking is available at the trailhead, which can fill up, especially on weekends. From the trailhead, Bark Shanty Campsite is approximately 2.6 to 2.7 miles in, an easy walk described as "more of a saunter than a hike" due to the well-maintained and relatively flat trail. Beyond Bark Shanty, the trail can become more rugged, with steeper and narrower sections, and potentially overgrown areas, so assess your comfort level if you plan to continue further to Camp Jolley or beyond.

As a primitive, hike-in campsite, Bark Shanty offers a minimalist approach to camping, emphasizing self-sufficiency and Leave No Trace principles. Visitors should arrive prepared with all necessary supplies, as services are very limited:

• Designated Campsites: Bark Shanty provides established, level camping areas capable of accommodating several tents. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations can be made.
• Water Access: The Big Quilcene River runs directly beside the campsites, providing a natural water source. Campers are expected to use a water filter or other purification methods (boiling, chemical treatment) to make the river water potable, as no treated drinking water is provided.
• Limited Sanitation: The only trail bathroom is located at the trailhead. Campers at Bark Shanty are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles for waste disposal, which typically involves digging a cathole for human waste at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites, and packing out all toilet paper and hygiene products.
• Bear Canister Requirement/Recommendation: Given its wilderness setting and the presence of wildlife, campers are often required or strongly recommended to use bear canisters for food storage to protect both wildlife and their provisions.
• Fire Rings (Conditional): While campfires are a part of the camping experience, their allowance is strictly dependent on current fire season conditions and burn bans. Always check for fire restrictions before your trip. If a ban is in effect, propane stoves are typically permitted for cooking.
• No Phone Service: It is important to note that there is no phone service at Bark Shanty Campsite or often at the trailhead, meaning campers should be prepared to be off-grid.

The true highlights of Bark Shanty Campsite lie in its pristine natural environment and the immersive outdoor experience it provides:

• Idyllic Hike-In Experience: The 2.6-mile hike to Bark Shanty is a major draw, offering beautiful scenery, including moss-covered forests, and easy walking on a well-maintained trail. It’s considered a "Champagne Trail" due to its relatively flat grade.
• Riverside Location: The campsite is nestled right on the banks of the Big Quilcene River, offering soothing river sounds, opportunities for fishing (with proper licensing), and picturesque water views.
• Old-Growth Forest: The trail and campsite pass through and are surrounded by large old-growth cedars and a lush forest of Douglas firs and other Pacific Northwest vegetation, creating a deep sense of wilderness. In spring and summer, blooming rhododendrons add vibrant color.
• Peaceful and Clean: Visitors consistently praise the campsite for its quiet, serene atmosphere and the considerate use by previous campers, resulting in a clean and well-preserved area.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural habitat increases the chances of spotting local wildlife, adding to the immersive experience.
• Gateway to Further Exploration: Bark Shanty serves as a good base for those looking to continue further along the Lower Big Quilcene Trail to Camp Jolley or even into the Buckhorn Wilderness.
• Year-Round Greenery: The evergreen trees and mosses provide shelter from precipitation, making it a good choice even during fall and winter months for those prepared for cooler, wetter conditions.

As a primitive, first-come, first-served campsite within the Olympic National Forest, Bark Shanty Campsite does not have a direct phone number or dedicated staff on-site. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding trail conditions, burn bans, or general regulations for camping in the Olympic National Forest, visitors should contact the managing agency.

Address: NF-27, Quilcene, WA 98376, USA (This refers to the general area of the trailhead access road.)

For specific inquiries about the Lower Big Quilcene Trail or Bark Shanty Campsite, it is best to contact the Olympic National Forest directly. Their main office or the local Ranger District office would be the appropriate point of contact. While a direct phone number for the campsite itself isn't available, general information can often be obtained through the Olympic National Forest's official website or by calling their main information lines. It is always recommended to check the U.S. Forest Service website for the Olympic National Forest for current conditions, alerts, and regulations before embarking on your trip.

Bark Shanty Campsite is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in Washington State who embrace the true spirit of outdoor adventure and primitive camping. Its location near Quilcene, within the easily accessible Olympic National Forest, means that a profound wilderness experience is within reasonable driving distance for many residents. For Washingtonians, who often seek authentic natural escapes, the 2.6-mile hike-in requirement acts as a natural filter, ensuring that those who reach the campsite are genuinely invested in preserving its tranquility and cleanliness.

The "saunter" to Bark Shanty along the Lower Big Quilcene Trail offers a gentle yet immersive introduction to the region's stunning old-growth forests and vibrant river ecosystems, making it suitable for both experienced backpackers and families ready for their first hike-in camping adventure. The absence of phone service further enhances its appeal for locals looking to truly disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with nature, a common desire among those living in a fast-paced urban environment.

Moreover, as a first-come, first-served site, Bark Shanty embodies a quintessential Pacific Northwest outdoor ethic, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for maintaining its pristine condition. For those who cherish quiet evenings by the river, under a canopy of ancient trees, and the satisfaction of earning their campsite through a walk in the woods, Bark Shanty Campsite remains a treasured local gem, offering an unparalleled primitive camping experience in the heart of Washington's natural beauty. Remember to pack out everything you pack in to help keep this special place wild and beautiful for all to enjoy.

Bark Shanty Campsite

NF-27, Quilcene, WA 98376, USA