DNR Elbe Hills ORV Campground

For Washington state residents with a passion for outdoor adventure, particularly those who enjoy off-road vehicle (ORV) riding or horseback riding, DNR Elbe Hills ORV Campground offers an ideal basecamp. Nestled within the expansive Elbe Hills State Forest, this campground provides direct access to a vast network of motorized and equestrian trails, making it a prime destination for exhilarating rides and scenic explorations. It's designed to accommodate large setups, perfect for multiple trucks, sizable RVs, and horse trailers, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for enthusiasts. This article will provide a comprehensive look at what makes DNR Elbe Hills ORV Campground a standout choice for locals, detailing its strategic location, the essential services it provides, its unique features, and why it's the perfect spot for your next action-packed outdoor getaway in Washington.

DNR Elbe Hills ORV Campground is located at 50535 9 Rd, Ashford, WA 98304, USA. This address places it within the Elbe Hills State Forest, a significant recreational area managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). For Washington locals, its accessibility is a major advantage. Situated near the small town of Elbe, it's a manageable drive from major population centers like Tacoma, Seattle, and Olympia. The campground is specifically positioned to provide easy and direct access to the extensive trail systems within the Elbe Hills State Forest, which is a key draw for ORV riders and equestrians. Road 9, the access road, is generally well-maintained, ensuring smooth transit for large vehicles and trailers. Its proximity to Mount Rainier National Park also means that while the focus here is on motorized and equestrian recreation, the broader region offers diverse outdoor pursuits for those looking to explore. This combination of dedicated recreational access and relatively straightforward travel makes it a highly convenient and desirable location for a wide range of Washington-based outdoor enthusiasts.

DNR Elbe Hills ORV Campground provides a range of essential services tailored to the needs of its primary users – ORV enthusiasts and horseback riders. Managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, the focus is on providing functional facilities within a natural forest setting.

• Large Campsites: The campground features very generous campsites, designed to accommodate "multiple trucks or large RVs." This is a significant advantage for those bringing extensive gear, multiple vehicles, or large trailers, including horse trailers.

• Reservable Sites: A limited number of the 30 campsites at Elbe Hills ORV Campground are reservable, specifically 20 sites. Reservations are available with a minimum of three days' and a maximum of three months' notice. During state holiday weekends, all campsites become first-come, first-served from the Thursday before the holiday until the Monday after.

• First-Come, First-Served Sites: The remaining sites (some for horse campers only, and some for all other users except ORV users) are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A Discover Pass is required for camping and accessing the State Forest land.

• Vault Toilets: The campground is equipped with clean and well-maintained vault toilets, as confirmed by customer reviews, ensuring basic sanitation facilities for campers.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is typically furnished with a picnic table and an approved fire pit, allowing for comfortable outdoor dining and campfires (always check for current burn restrictions). There is also a picnic shelter with a fireplace.

• Hitching Rails: For equestrian campers, sites 9-20 are designated for horse campers and likely include hitching rails, providing a convenient and safe place to secure horses.

• No Potable Water: It is important to note that information on potable water availability is not consistently provided, suggesting campers should come prepared with their own water supply or a method for treating water from natural sources.

• Discover Pass Required: All licensed motor vehicles must display a Discover Pass for access and camping within Elbe Hills State Forest.

• Stay Limits: Stays are generally limited to 10 days in a 30-day period.

DNR Elbe Hills ORV Campground offers several distinct features and highlights that make it a compelling destination, especially for its target recreational users in Washington State.

• Direct Trail Access: The foremost highlight is its immediate access to 13 miles of motorized trails within the Elbe Hills State Forest, as well as connections to the 40-mile Nicholson Horse Trail System. This direct access means campers can transition seamlessly from their site to thrilling ORV rides or scenic horseback adventures.

• ORV Focus: This is a dedicated ORV campground, meaning the infrastructure and atmosphere are geared towards those with dirt bikes, ATVs, and other off-road vehicles. This creates a community among like-minded enthusiasts.

• Spacious Sites: As noted by a reviewer, the "very large campsites for multiple trucks or large RVs" are a significant advantage. This generous sizing allows for comfortable setup, maneuvering of large vehicles, and plenty of space for gear, trailers, and even social gatherings within your site.

• "Hard Pack" Surfaces: The description of "Hard pack" sites suggests well-drained and stable surfaces, which is beneficial for heavy vehicles and in varying weather conditions.

• Clean Facilities: Reviewers consistently praise the "Nice campground, clean bathrooms," indicating a commitment by the DNR to maintaining pleasant facilities even in a more rugged setting.

• Proximity to Major Events: The campground's location in the Elbe area makes it a popular spot for events like "KOE 2024" (King of the Hammers East, a major off-road racing event), attracting participants and spectators who need a convenient and purpose-built place to stay.

• Diverse Forest Environment: The Elbe Hills State Forest itself is a rugged, hilly rainforest with many old logging roads open for exploration. It offers "amazing territorial views on a clear day" and a "moody" atmosphere when cloudy, providing a dynamic natural backdrop for your stay.

For reservations, current trail conditions, or further inquiries about DNR Elbe Hills ORV Campground and the Elbe Hills State Forest, please use the following contact information for the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which manages the campground:

Address: 50535 9 Rd, Ashford, WA 98304, USA (This address points to the location of the campground within the Elbe Hills State Forest.)

Phone: (253) 255-2713 (This is likely the phone number for the specific DNR recreation office or ranger district responsible for the Elbe Hills area.)

Mobile Phone: +1 253-255-2713 (Same as above, providing a mobile-friendly format.)

For the most up-to-date information regarding campsite availability, reservation procedures, current fire restrictions, and specific ORV or equestrian trail conditions, it is highly recommended to contact the Washington DNR directly or visit their official website. Reservations for the 20 designated sites are advised, especially during peak seasons or when major ORV events are taking place. Remember to acquire your Discover Pass before visiting.

DNR Elbe Hills ORV Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Washington locals, particularly those who are deeply involved in off-road vehicle recreation or horseback riding. Its primary appeal lies in its dedicated access to a vast network of ORV and equestrian trails directly from the campground, minimizing travel logistics and maximizing time spent on exhilarating outdoor pursuits. For Washingtonians, this means having a readily available and purpose-built destination for their favorite hobbies, just a short drive from many population centers.

The "very large campsites" are a huge plus for those with bigger rigs, multiple vehicles, or horse trailers, providing the necessary space and convenience that can be hard to find elsewhere. The consistent praise for "clean bathrooms" and a "nice campground" underscores the commitment to maintaining quality facilities. Whether you're participating in events like KOE, embarking on a weekend of trail riding, or simply seeking a spacious and amenity-rich base for your ORV adventures, Elbe Hills ORV Campground provides a practical, enjoyable, and perfectly tailored experience for Washington's passionate outdoor community. It's a true local gem for those who love to explore the forest on wheels or hooves.

For more insights into the off-road vehicle experience in the Elbe Hills, you might want to watch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfJj57kht2k).

DNR Elbe Hills ORV Campground

50535 9 Rd, Ashford, WA 98304, USA