Five Mile Camp

For Washingtonians who truly seek to immerse themselves in the quiet grandeur of our state's wilderness, Five Mile Camp offers an extraordinary opportunity. This charming hike-in campground is a favorite among backpackers and those looking for a secluded escape, providing a genuine connection with nature away from the typical roadside amenities. Situated deep within a picturesque valley, Five Mile Camp is your gateway to the pristine beauty of the Olympic National Park area, promising tranquility and an authentic outdoor adventure.

This article is crafted specifically for local Washington users, aiming to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Five Mile Camp. We'll explore its location and how to reach this serene spot, discuss the services you can expect, highlight its most appealing features, and provide essential contact information to help you plan your next wilderness excursion. Our goal is to inspire you to discover the peaceful solitude and natural splendor that awaits at Five Mile Camp.

Five Mile Camp is nestled in the heart of Washington's wilderness, with its general address being Washington, USA. More specifically, it is famously located approximately five miles along the Duckabush River Trail, deep within the Olympic National Forest, bordering Olympic National Park. This places it on the scenic Olympic Peninsula, a region renowned for its lush rainforests, rugged coastline, and stunning mountain ranges.

As its name suggests, Five Mile Camp is a hike-in campground, meaning vehicle access directly to the campsites is not available. The primary way to reach it is by embarking on a scenic approximately 5-mile hike from the Duckabush River Trailhead. This trail, known for its beauty, meanders through diverse forestland, often along the picturesque Duckabush River. While a 5-mile hike might sound substantial, the trail generally has a relatively gentle elevation gain, making it accessible for those with moderate hiking experience and suitable for an overnight backpacking trip. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, offering stunning views and a gradual immersion into the old-growth forest.

Given its remote nature, hikers should be prepared for varying trail conditions, which can include muddy or rocky sections. Planning ahead with appropriate gear and sufficient supplies is crucial. Access to the Duckabush River Trailhead typically involves navigating forest service roads, which are generally well-maintained but may require awareness of current conditions. This deliberate approach to access ensures that Five Mile Camp maintains its secluded and pristine character, appealing to those Washingtonians truly seeking an off-grid experience.

• Designated Campsites: Five Mile Camp provides established, primitive campsites suitable for tent camping. These sites offer flat areas for pitching tents and a degree of natural privacy.
• Campfire Rings: Typically, individual campsites will include a campfire ring, allowing campers to have a warming fire and cook meals (always check for current fire bans or restrictions, especially during dry seasons).
• Access to Water (Natural Source): Given its location by the Duckabush River, campers have access to a natural water source. However, it is imperative to filter or treat all water before consumption to ensure safety.
• Leave No Trace Principles: As a wilderness campground, visitors are expected to adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles, packing out all trash and minimizing their impact on the environment. There are no trash services provided.
• Primitive Restrooms (Limited/None): Amenities typically include very basic or no formal restroom facilities, often relying on catholes dug away from water sources, as per Leave No Trace guidelines.
• No Hookups: As a hike-in camp, there are no RV hookups or developed facilities like flush toilets or showers. This is a true wilderness camping experience.

• Secluded Wilderness Experience: The primary highlight of Five Mile Camp is its profound sense of seclusion. Being a hike-in site, it naturally filters out casual visitors, leaving a peaceful environment for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
• Picturesque Riverside Location: The campground's position along the beautiful Duckabush River provides a soothing natural soundtrack and opportunities for riverside relaxation, contemplation, and potentially fishing (check local regulations and license requirements).
• Old-Growth Forest Immersion: The hike to and setting of Five Mile Camp are within lush, old-growth forests, creating a truly immersive experience surrounded by towering trees, moss, and ferns.
• Scenic Hiking Opportunities: The Duckabush River Trail itself is highly scenic, offering beautiful views throughout the 5-mile journey. Beyond the camp, adventurers can continue further into the Olympic wilderness for extended explorations.
• Wildlife Viewing: The remote location increases the chances of encountering local wildlife, from various bird species to larger mammals, adding to the authentic wilderness appeal.
• Dark Skies: Far from urban light pollution, Five Mile Camp offers magnificent dark skies, providing unparalleled opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.
• Authentic Backpacking Destination: It's an ideal destination for an overnight backpacking trip, providing a rewarding challenge and a taste of backcountry living without requiring extensive multi-day planning.
• Views of Big Hump: The trail leading to Five Mile Camp can offer views from the crest of "Big Hump," looking down towards the camp, providing a sense of achievement and a beautiful perspective.

Address: Washington, USA (specifically, approximately 5 miles along the Duckabush River Trail, Olympic National Forest)

Due to its remote, hike-in nature, Five Mile Camp does not typically have a direct phone number for reservations or inquiries. For information regarding trail conditions, wilderness permits (often required for overnight stays in national forest/park wilderness areas), or general inquiries about the Olympic National Forest, it is best to contact the relevant ranger district office or the Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center.

For the most up-to-date information, it is highly recommended to check the official U.S. Forest Service or National Park Service websites for the Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park respectively.

For Washingtonians who truly embrace the spirit of adventure and seek a profound connection with the wild, Five Mile Camp stands as an exceptional and uniquely suitable destination. Our state is renowned for its stunning, often rugged, wilderness, and Five Mile Camp offers a direct, immersive experience of that natural heritage. The very act of hiking approximately five miles to reach this campground filters out casual visitors, creating a serene and truly secluded environment that is highly prized by local outdoor enthusiasts.

This camp is ideal for those who prefer the quiet rustle of leaves to the hum of generators, and the crackle of a campfire to the glow of electric lights. It offers a perfect opportunity for Washington residents to engage in an authentic backpacking experience, whether it's their first overnight trek or a regular escape from urban life. The beautiful journey along the Duckabush River, surrounded by towering old-growth trees, is a reward in itself, culminating in a peaceful riverside campsite where the only sounds are those of nature.

Moreover, its location within the Olympic National Forest, bordering the renowned Olympic National Park, means that Five Mile Camp is embedded in a landscape of immense ecological significance and breathtaking beauty. For Washington locals, this means readily accessible opportunities for deep wilderness exploration, wildlife observation, and a chance to truly disconnect and rejuvenate. It encourages self-reliance and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, fostering a deeper respect for our shared natural resources – values deeply ingrained in the outdoor culture of Washington state.

In summary, Five Mile Camp is not just a place to sleep; it’s an adventure. It provides a vital space for Washingtonians to challenge themselves, find solitude, and deepen their appreciation for the pristine wilderness that defines our home. For your next venture into the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, embrace the journey and discover the unparalleled peace awaiting you at Five Mile Camp.

Five Mile Camp

Washington, USA