Lena Lake Campground

For Washington residents yearning for a true escape into the wilderness, Lena Lake Campground offers an unparalleled backcountry experience. Nestled within the breathtaking Olympic National Forest near Hoodsport, this isn't your typical drive-up campground. Instead, it promises a rewarding adventure, accessible only via a scenic 3.5-mile hike, immersing you in the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Lena Lake Campground is a destination for those who appreciate primitive camping, stunning natural vistas, and the quiet solitude that comes with earning your campsite.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide for Washington locals interested in exploring Lena Lake Campground. We'll cover everything from the hiking trail that leads to it, the amenities (or lack thereof) you can expect, and why this particular spot is a favorite among seasoned and aspiring backpackers alike. While the journey requires effort, the reward of camping by the tranquil Lena Lake, surrounded by old-growth forests and majestic peaks, is an experience truly worth the exertion. We understand that finding reliable information about backcountry sites can be challenging, so our goal is to present all the necessary details to help you plan your memorable trip to this pristine Washington gem.

Lena Lake Campground embodies the spirit of Leave No Trace principles, encouraging campers to minimize their impact and preserve the natural environment for future generations. Its primitive nature means you'll need to be self-sufficient and prepared for a genuine wilderness experience. This level of engagement with nature is precisely what draws many Washingtonians to its shores, offering a profound sense of peace and accomplishment. Whether you're looking to practice your backpacking skills or simply seeking a serene retreat from urban life, Lena Lake Campground provides an authentic and invigorating connection to Washington's magnificent wild spaces.

Lena Lake Campground is located near Hoodsport, WA 98548, USA, deep within the Olympic National Forest. This designation is crucial, as it signifies a true backcountry experience. Unlike many roadside campgrounds, Lena Lake Campground is a walk-in site, accessed exclusively by hiking the Lena Lake Trail #810. The trailhead is typically found off of the Hamma Hamma River Road (Forest Road 25), which branches off US-101. While the town of Hoodsport serves as the closest community for services and supplies, the actual campground is miles into the wilderness.

The journey to the campground involves a moderate 3.5-mile hike with an elevation gain of approximately 1,225 to 1,400 feet from the trailhead to the lower lake. While considered manageable for most hikers, it does involve a steady uphill climb and switchbacks, making it a good introductory backpacking trip or a challenging day hike. The trail itself is generally well-maintained, passing through lush old-growth and second-growth forests, offering beautiful scenery along the way. Despite being a popular trail, especially on weekends and in warmer months, the effort required to reach the campground means it maintains a more secluded feel than easily accessible sites.

Accessibility to the trailhead itself is generally good, with the Hamma Hamma River Road typically paved. However, visitors should always check current road conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons or after heavy rainfall, as forest roads can sometimes experience washouts. Parking is available at the Lena Lake Trailhead, though it can fill up quickly during peak times. A valid Recreation Pass (such as a Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass) is required at the trailhead for each calendar day you will be visiting, so be sure to acquire one before your trip to avoid any issues.

Lena Lake Campground is a primitive backcountry camping area, meaning the services offered are minimal and designed for self-sufficient campers. This is part of its appeal for those seeking a true wilderness experience:

• Hike-in Access Only: The primary "service" is its accessibility via the Lena Lake Trail. This 3.5-mile hike is the only way to reach the campground, requiring all gear and supplies to be packed in and out.
• Designated Campsites: There are approximately 29 single hike-in sites located along the west and north shores of Lena Lake. Campers are required to stay within these designated sites to minimize environmental impact, especially given the heavy use the area receives.
• Fire Pits: Many campsites are equipped with fire pits, allowing for campfires. However, campers should always check for current burn bans or restrictions, especially during dry seasons. Some areas, particularly near Upper Lena Lake, prohibit campfires entirely to protect sensitive vegetation.
• Pit Toilets: Two open-air pit toilets are available on the west and north shores of the lake. These are primitive facilities, and campers should be prepared with their own toilet paper and practice proper waste disposal, including burying human waste 6 inches deep and 100 feet from trails and water sources if not using the toilets. It's important to note that sometimes these toilets can be temporarily closed.
• No Potable Water: There is no potable water source at the campground. Campers must pack in all their drinking water or bring a water filter/purifier to treat water from Lena Lake, which should always be boiled, filtered, or chemically treated to prevent waterborne illnesses like Giardia.
• First-Come, First-Served: All campsites at Lena Lake Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted, especially during peak seasons, it is advisable to arrive early, particularly on weekends, to secure a spot.

Lena Lake Campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and an approachable backcountry challenge, making it a highlight for many Washington outdoor enthusiasts:

• Stunning Lake Views: The primary highlight is the picturesque Lena Lake itself, a large 55-acre lake nestled at 1,800 feet elevation. Campers are treated to "great views of the lake" and surrounding mountains directly from many campsites. The massive rock outcropping on the NW part of the lake provides a fantastic main lookout point.
• Accessible Backcountry Experience: Described as suitable for "beginner backpackers," the 3.5-mile Lena Lake Trail provides a rewarding yet manageable introduction to backcountry camping. It allows hikers to experience packing in gear and practicing Leave No Trace principles in a relatively accessible setting.
• Abundant Camp Spots: Despite its popularity, there are "plenty of camp spots" available, scattered along the lake. This generally allows for a choice of locations and a sense of finding your own space, even during busier times.
• Opportunity for Solitude (Off-Peak): While the trail and campground can be heavily used, particularly on summer weekends, visiting during the early spring, late fall, or even early winter (as one reviewer noted being "the only person camped there on a Saturday night in early December") can offer incredible solitude and a more profound wilderness experience, albeit with colder temperatures and potentially snow.
• Dog-Friendly Trail: The Lena Lake Trail is dog-friendly, allowing canine companions to join in on the adventure, a significant plus for many Washington dog owners looking for trails where their pets are welcome.
• Access to Deeper Wilderness: From Lena Lake Campground, more adventurous hikers can access The Brothers Wilderness via The Brothers Trail #821, which leads to The Brothers Base Camp. This offers a gateway to even more challenging and remote hiking and backpacking within the Olympic National Park wilderness.

For current conditions, regulations, or any questions regarding Lena Lake Campground, you can contact the Olympic National Forest staff. It's important to note that direct reservations for Lena Lake Campground are not possible as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Address: Hoodsport, WA 98548, USA (This is the general area, the campground is hike-in only)

Phone: (360) 956-2402

Mobile Phone: +1 360-956-2402

It is always advisable to call the Hood Canal Ranger District (which manages this area) using the provided phone numbers before your trip. They can offer the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, potential closures, fire restrictions, and any specific requirements for camping or trail passes. Checking the Olympic National Forest website for Lena Lake Campground and Lena Lake Trail is also highly recommended for current alerts and visitor information.

Lena Lake Campground is exceptionally suitable for locals in Washington State for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its relatively accessible location near Hoodsport on the Olympic Peninsula means it's a manageable drive for many residents across the Puget Sound region, avoiding the need for extensive travel to more remote wilderness areas. This makes it an ideal destination for a weekend backpacking trip or even an ambitious day hike for experienced trekkers looking to immerse themselves in nature without traveling too far from home.

Secondly, the nature of the campground itself perfectly aligns with the desires of many Washingtonians seeking an authentic outdoor experience. It's a hike-in, primitive campground, offering a genuine taste of backcountry camping. This encourages self-reliance, adherence to Leave No Trace principles, and a deeper connection with the natural environment – values highly cherished by the local outdoor community. The 3.5-mile hike, with its moderate elevation gain, provides a satisfying challenge for both seasoned backpackers and those new to the activity, making it an excellent training ground or a rewarding journey in itself.

Furthermore, the beauty of Lena Lake, with its clear waters, surrounding old-growth forests, and stunning mountain views, offers the quintessential Pacific Northwest landscape that locals cherish. The availability of numerous camp spots and fire pits (when no bans are in place) allows for a flexible and enjoyable camping experience. While it can be popular, especially on summer weekends, the opportunity for solitude during off-peak times, as highlighted by a reviewer camping alone in early December, makes it versatile for different preferences.

Finally, the dog-friendly nature of the Lena Lake Trail means that Washingtonians can share this beautiful experience with their beloved canine companions, a significant bonus for many outdoor enthusiasts. Lena Lake Campground offers a perfect blend of accessible adventure, stunning natural beauty, and a true primitive camping experience, solidifying its status as a highly recommended destination for locals looking to reconnect with Washington's magnificent wilderness.

Lena Lake Campground

Hoodsport, WA 98548, USA