Heart O' the Hills Campground

For Washington residents yearning for a classic Pacific Northwest camping experience, Heart O' the Hills Campground offers an ideal setting within the majestic Olympic National Park. Located just a short drive from Port Angeles, this popular campground is renowned for its immersive old-growth forest environment and its strategic position on the road to the iconic Hurricane Ridge. It provides a perfect blend of natural tranquility and convenient access to some of the park's most breathtaking vistas and trails.

Heart O' the Hills operates primarily on a first-come, first-served basis for much of the year, a feature appreciated by many who prefer spontaneous adventures over advance planning. Even during busier periods, arriving earlier in the day can often secure a coveted spot. The campground caters to a variety of campers, from those pitching a tent to those in smaller RVs and trailers, with sites nestled among towering trees that provide ample shade and a sense of seclusion. It's a place where the sounds of the forest replace city noise, offering a true escape into Washington's wilderness. With its well-maintained facilities and proximity to both natural wonders and urban conveniences, Heart O' the Hills stands out as a go-to destination for locals seeking an authentic and accessible Olympic National Park experience.

Heart O' the Hills Campground boasts an exceptional location at 2823 S Oak St, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA, placing it directly within the northern reaches of Olympic National Park. This strategic position is a significant advantage for Washington residents, as it sits right on the scenic Hurricane Ridge Road, just moments from the entrance station and a mere 15 minutes from the vibrant city of Port Angeles. This makes it incredibly easy to access from major population centers across the state, including Seattle and Tacoma, via the efficient ferry system across Puget Sound or by driving around the Olympic Peninsula.

The campground's direct placement on the route to Hurricane Ridge means that campers have unparalleled access to one of Olympic National Park's most beloved destinations. Hikers can easily embark on trails leading to panoramic mountain views, alpine meadows, and diverse ecosystems directly from the campground or a short drive up the road. Furthermore, its close proximity to Port Angeles ensures that campers have convenient access to essential services and amenities, such as groceries, gas, restaurants, and outdoor gear shops, blending the wilderness experience with practical urban support. This combination of being deeply embedded in a national park while maintaining excellent accessibility makes Heart O' the Hills an exceptionally convenient and appealing choice for local Washington adventurers.

• 105 Single Family Campsites: Offering a good number of sites for tents, RVs, and trailers.
• RV and Trailer Accommodation: Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 24 feet, with a few larger sites for up to 35 feet.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings with Grates: Each campsite is equipped for convenient outdoor cooking and enjoyment.
• Flush Toilets: Clean and regularly maintained restroom facilities are available.
• Potable Drinking Water: Access to safe drinking water within the campground.
• Trash Collection: Designated bins for waste disposal, promoting cleanliness and Leave No Trace principles.
• Food Storage Lockers: Shared, animal-proof food storage lockers are available to protect food from wildlife.
• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is typically available for purchase at the campground, ensuring enjoyable campfires (check for burn bans).
• Amphitheater & Ranger Programs: Offering interpretive programs during the summer months for educational and entertainment purposes.
• Accessible Site & Restroom: Provides facilities to accommodate visitors with accessibility needs.
• No Electric Hookups: The campground focuses on a rustic experience, so no electrical hookups are available for RVs.
• No Showers: Campers should be prepared for no shower facilities on-site; public showers may be available in nearby Port Angeles.
• First-Come, First-Served: Operates primarily on a first-come, first-served basis, though some sites may be reservable during peak season via Recreation.gov.

• Old-Growth Forest Setting: Immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of towering firs and moss-covered trees, providing a truly quintessential Pacific Northwest experience.
• Direct Access to Hurricane Ridge: Unbeatable proximity to one of Olympic National Park's most popular destinations, offering stunning mountain views and hiking trails.
• Year-Round Operation: Unique for a national park campground, it remains open year-round (though may be walk-in only during heavy snow).
• First-Come, First-Served Availability: Offers flexibility for spontaneous trips, a cherished feature for many local campers.
• Variety of Campsite Privacy: Sites offer different levels of seclusion, allowing campers to choose what suits them best.
• Clean Facilities: Visitors often praise the cleanliness of the flush toilets and availability of potable water.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The dense forest environment provides chances to spot local wildlife.
• Hiking Trail Access: Direct access to various trails from or very near the campground, including the Heart O' the Hills trail itself.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: A safe and welcoming environment for families to connect with nature.
• Proximity to Port Angeles: Convenient access to town amenities for supplies, dining, and additional activities.
• Quiet Hours: Ensures a peaceful camping experience for all guests.

As Heart O' the Hills Campground is managed by the National Park Service within Olympic National Park, direct booking for all sites is typically not available through a specific campground phone number, especially for first-come, first-served sites. For general park information, campground status updates, and current conditions (including road closures to Hurricane Ridge, which can impact access), the primary contact number for Olympic National Park is (360) 565-3131. This number can also be reached as +1 360-565-3131 from mobile phones. The physical address associated with the campground's general area is 2823 S Oak St, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA. For specific reservation information during periods when sites might be reservable (check Recreation.gov), or for detailed questions about park regulations, it is always best to consult the official Olympic National Park website (nps.gov/olym) or call the main park information line. Always verify road conditions, especially during shoulder seasons or winter, as snow and ice can affect access to the campground and Hurricane Ridge.

Heart O' the Hills Campground truly embodies the spirit of Washington State's outdoor appeal, making it an exceptional choice for locals. Its paramount advantage is its location: nestled in an ancient forest, directly on the route to the breathtaking Hurricane Ridge, and just a stone's throw from Port Angeles. This unparalleled accessibility means Washingtonians can easily escape for a weekend retreat without extensive travel, transforming precious leisure time into immediate immersion in nature. Whether coming from Seattle, Tacoma, or other parts of the Puget Sound, the journey is straightforward, leading directly to a serene, forested haven.

For those who value authentic experiences, Heart O' the Hills delivers. The first-come, first-served system, though requiring an early arrival during peak times, appeals to the spontaneous adventurer and often means a more diverse and less "resort-like" camping community. This campground is a sanctuary from the often-overbooked or overly structured alternatives, offering a true sense of discovery and a genuine connection to Olympic National Park's natural grandeur. The balance of rustic charm with essential amenities like flush toilets and potable water ensures a comfortable yet still wild experience. Ultimately, Heart O' the Hills provides Washington locals with an invaluable opportunity to regularly reconnect with the iconic landscapes that define their home state, fostering lasting memories amidst towering trees and majestic mountain views—a truly local gem in the heart of the Olympics.

Heart O' the Hills Campground

2823 S Oak St, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA