Ericson's Bay Campground

Are you a Washingtonian with a deep appreciation for untouched wilderness, seeking a tranquil escape where the sounds of nature prevail and the stars truly shine? Ericson's Bay Campground, nestled on the shores of Lake Ozette within the magnificent Olympic National Park near Clallam Bay, WA, offers a uniquely primitive and profoundly rewarding camping experience. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; it's a special place, usually accessed by boat, promising unparalleled quiet and stunning natural beauty.

Ericson's Bay Campground is renowned among those in the know for its sheltered location, providing a peaceful haven from the winds that can sometimes sweep across the main lake waters. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural world. While it's described as "primitive," this is part of its charm, offering a genuine backcountry experience for those willing to pack accordingly and embrace the simplicity of wilderness camping.

One of the standout features of Ericson's Bay is its quiet setting and "great views" that captivate visitors. The beach area is perfect for swimming, especially on calm days, making it a fantastic spot for both adults and kids to enjoy the lake's refreshing waters. For those who love the water, whether it's paddling a canoe or kayak from nearby Swan Bay or cruising over in a power boat, the journey to the campground itself is part of the adventure, setting the tone for a truly memorable stay.

With numerous tent spots available and the added convenience that it "does not require a reservation" (though wilderness permits for overnight camping in Olympic National Park are required, especially during peak season), Ericson's Bay Campground offers a spontaneous option for intrepid campers. Prepare to discover a hidden gem that embodies the wild spirit of Washington's Olympic Peninsula, promising a quiet, beautiful, and utterly refreshing outdoor escape.

Ericson's Bay Campground is located on the shores of Lake Ozette, within the expansive Olympic National Park, near Clallam Bay, WA 98326, USA. This location places it in the far western reaches of the Olympic Peninsula, a region celebrated for its rugged coastline, ancient rainforests, and pristine lakes.

The primary and most common way to access Ericson's Bay Campground is by boat. Lake Ozette is the third-largest lake in Washington, and the campground is a popular boat-in only destination for kayakers, canoeists, and other boaters. Launch sites are available from the Ozette Ranger Station or Swan Bay. The paddle to Ericson's Bay Camp is approximately 4.0 miles from the Ozette Ranger Station, typically taking a couple of hours for kayakers. Many visitors choose to paddle over from Swan Bay or use a power boat to "zoom over."

While primarily boat-accessed, there is an "old trail" if you know how to overland, though it is described as primitive and not maintained by Olympic National Park. This trail does not directly access the Ericson's Bay camp itself, which is noted as boat-in only. Instead, an unmaintained primitive trail may lead from the coast (south of Sand Point) to the east side of Ericson's Bay. It is important for any overland explorers to be experienced, carry maps and compass, and be prepared for challenging conditions, as trails in this area can be wet, slippery, and overgrown, and do not provide direct access to the camp without a final boat leg.

Visitors should be aware that Lake Ozette water can be extremely cold, so appropriate safety measures, such as wearing a wetsuit if paddling, are advisable. As Ericson's Bay Campground is within Olympic National Park, all backcountry campers (including boat-in campers) are required to have a wilderness permit. These permits, especially for peak season dates between May 15 and October 15, become available on recreation.gov, and advance planning is recommended as popular dates can fill up. This combination of remote access and park regulations contributes to the campground's primitive and quiet setting, ensuring a true wilderness experience.

Services Offered:

• Primitive tent spots, often described as numerous and suitable for tents.
• Pit toilets, which may vary in condition depending on the time of year.
• No potable water is specifically mentioned at the campground itself, so campers should plan to filter or treat water from the lake or pack in their own.
• Fire rings at campsites (always check for current fire restrictions within Olympic National Park).
• No reservations required for the campsites themselves (though wilderness permits are required from NPS).

Features / Highlights:

• Boat-In Access: Primarily accessed by boat (kayak, canoe, power boat) from launch sites like Ozette Ranger Station or Swan Bay, adding to its secluded charm.
• Primitive Camping Experience: Offers a true wilderness camping experience, emphasizing self-reliance and minimal amenities.
• Sheltered from Wind: Positioned in a bay that is usually sheltered from stronger winds on the main lake water, providing a more comfortable setting.
• Great Views: Boasts excellent views of Lake Ozette and the surrounding natural landscape.
• Quiet Setting: Known for its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for disconnecting from noise and crowds.
• Excellent Swimming Beach: The beach area is described as "great for swimming and for kids," particularly when the wind dies down.
• Ample Tent Spots: Offers many tent spots, providing flexibility for campers.
• No Reservations Required for Site: While NPS wilderness permits are needed, the specific campsites at Ericson's Bay often do not require individual reservations for the spot itself, allowing for more spontaneous trips.
• Access to Hiking: While the direct trail to Ericson's Bay Camp is primitive and unmaintained, the area is part of Olympic National Park with many other hiking opportunities, including the popular Ozette Loop (which connects to the coast at Sand Point or Cape Alava).
• Insect Repellent Recommended: A strong suggestion to bring insect repellent, especially when the wind dies down, indicating a natural environment.
• Part of Olympic National Park: Located within a designated wilderness area, ensuring a high level of natural preservation and strict Leave No Trace principles.
• Remote and Private: Often described as a "fun and usually private place," appealing to those seeking solitude.

Contact Information:

Address: Clallam Bay, WA 98326, USA

For specific information regarding Ericson's Bay Campground, including wilderness permit requirements, current conditions, and access details, it is crucial to contact Olympic National Park directly. Since this is a primitive, boat-in campsite within the park, information is typically managed by the National Park Service rather than a direct campground office.

Olympic National Park Visitor Information:

Phone: (360) 565-3100

Mobile Phone: +1 360-565-3100

Wilderness permits for camping in Olympic National Park can often be obtained online through recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to check the official Olympic National Park website for the most up-to-date regulations, alerts, and any changes to access or permit requirements, especially before embarking on a trip to such a remote and primitive location.

Ericson's Bay Campground is an exceptional destination for Washington locals who possess an adventurous spirit and a deep desire for an authentic wilderness experience. For residents of the Evergreen State, this boat-in primitive campground on Lake Ozette offers a unique opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of Olympic National Park.

Its remote, boat-access-only nature means it deters casual visitors, ensuring a "usually private place" that is truly sheltered and quiet. This makes it perfect for Washingtonians seeking solitude, whether for a peaceful retreat or an active adventure. The "great views" and "great for swimming" beach area are significant draws, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the natural environment, especially for families with kids who love to splash and play.

While the "primitive" nature requires self-sufficiency and packing accordingly, many Washington locals embrace this challenge as part of the appeal of backcountry camping. The fact that it "does not require a reservation" for the site itself (though an NPS wilderness permit is mandatory) offers a level of spontaneity that can be rare in popular parks, allowing for more flexible planning. Ericson's Bay Campground embodies the rugged, natural beauty that defines much of Washington State's outdoor appeal, making it a must-experience for locals seeking a genuine and unforgettable wilderness adventure.

Ericson's Bay Campground

Clallam Bay, WA 98326, USA