Lower Royal Meadow

For Washingtonians yearning to shed the stresses of daily life and reconnect with nature in its purest form, Lower Royal Meadow offers an idyllic and truly breathtaking wilderness camping experience. Situated within the majestic Olympic National Park, near Port Angeles, this open valley campsite provides a stunning natural amphitheater surrounded by towering peaks, creating a sense of profound tranquility and awe. It's a place where the grandeur of the mountains meets the gentle beauty of an open meadow, promising an unforgettable escape for backpackers, photographers, and anyone seeking profound solitude in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

Lower Royal Meadow is much more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a destination that feels like paradise, as described by those fortunate enough to visit. While the journey to reach it involves a hike, the reward is an untouched landscape teeming with natural wonders. Imagine waking up to the sight of an expansive meadow, framed by rugged peaks, with the sounds of nature as your only companion. Reviews consistently highlight the meadow's beauty, its open character providing sweeping views that are a stark contrast to the dense forests often found at lower elevations.

This campsite is a testament to the wild beauty that Washington has to offer, providing an authentic backcountry experience that encourages self-sufficiency and a deep appreciation for conservation. Whether you're planning a challenging multi-day trek or a more mellow overnight stay as a segment of a longer adventure, Lower Royal Meadow offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Olympic wilderness and create lasting memories amidst its unparalleled natural splendor.

Access to Lower Royal Meadow typically begins from the Upper Dungeness Trailhead, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The hike to the meadow is part of the larger Royal Basin trail system. While the trail starts with relatively easy sections through dense forests, it gradually gains elevation and can be considered a moderate to difficult hike, especially for those less accustomed to backpacking. The journey involves traversing diverse scenery, making the hike itself a significant part of the experience. The distance to Lower Royal Meadow is approximately 6 miles from the Dungeness Trailhead. Visitors should always check current trail conditions with Olympic National Park or the U.S. Forest Service, particularly concerning snow levels, river crossings, and any potential closures or hazards. A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required to park at the Upper Dungeness Trailhead.

• Designated Campsites: Lower Royal Meadow offers several established campsites, often tucked back into the trees along the edge of the meadow. These sites are designed to minimize impact on the fragile ecosystem and are where campers are required to set up their tents.

• Composting Toilets: While not directly at every campsite, composting toilets are available in the Royal Basin area, including potentially near Lower Royal Meadow or at Royal Lake further up. These facilities are vital for proper human waste disposal in a wilderness setting.

• Water Access: Water is available from Royal Creek, which flows through or near the meadow. As with all backcountry water sources, it is absolutely essential to filter, purify, or boil all water before consumption to prevent waterborne illnesses.

• Bear Canister Requirement: Bear canisters are mandatory for food storage in the Royal Basin area, including Lower Royal Meadow. Trees in this area are generally not suitable for hanging food, and no bear wires are provided. This is a critical safety measure for both campers and local wildlife.

• Permit Required: An overnight wilderness permit is required for camping at Lower Royal Meadow, obtainable through Recreation.gov or directly from Olympic National Park. This system helps manage visitor numbers and protects the wilderness character of the area.

• No Developed Amenities: As a pristine backcountry wilderness site, Lower Royal Meadow does not offer amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings (campfires are generally prohibited in this high-elevation, sensitive subalpine zone), potable water spigots, or garbage collection. Campers must adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles, packing out everything they pack in, including all trash and toilet paper.

• Beautiful Open Valley: The most striking feature of Lower Royal Meadow is its expansive, open valley, offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding peaks. This natural amphitheater provides a spectacular setting unlike many other forested campsites.

• Dramatic Mountain Views: Situated between numerous peaks, the campsite offers stunning vistas of the Olympic Mountains, including potentially Mount Deception and Mount Clark, providing a constant sense of awe and photographic opportunities.

• Abundant Wildflowers: In season (typically late spring to summer), the meadow bursts with vibrant wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the verdant landscape and enhancing its picturesque quality.

• Wildlife Sightings: While large mammals like bears or goats might not be frequently sighted, the meadow is home to deer and smaller wildlife such as frogs, offering opportunities for peaceful wildlife observation in their natural habitat.

• Mosquitoes and Flies: While an unavoidable part of wilderness camping, it's a notable feature that mosquitoes and flies can be abundant in the meadow, especially during warmer months. This highlights the need for appropriate insect repellent and protective clothing.

• Gateway to Royal Basin: Lower Royal Meadow serves as an important waypoint or an enjoyable destination in itself on the popular trail to Royal Lake and the higher alpine areas of Royal Basin, offering flexibility for different hiking ambitions.

• Sense of Paradise: Visitors often describe the area as "paradise," speaking to its serene beauty and the profound sense of escape and natural wonder it provides.

As Lower Royal Meadow is a backcountry wilderness campsite within Olympic National Park, there is no direct address or phone number for the campsite itself. All inquiries, permit applications, and essential information regarding trail conditions and regulations are handled by Olympic National Park.

Address: Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA (This is a general area reference. The campsite is accessed via backcountry trails originating near Port Angeles.)

Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center: For the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding wilderness permits, current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and safety guidelines for Lower Royal Meadow and the Royal Basin area, please contact the Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center. Their contact information, including phone numbers and online resources, can be found on the official National Park Service website for Olympic National Park. It is highly recommended to secure your wilderness permit in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Locals who cherish the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty will be captivated by the panoramic mountain views surrounding the meadow and the vibrant displays of wildflowers in season. While the presence of insects like mosquitoes and flies is part of the wilderness experience, it's a small trade-off for the unparalleled tranquility and natural grandeur. The requirement for bear canisters and adherence to Leave No Trace principles aligns perfectly with the responsible outdoor ethics valued by Washingtonians, ensuring the preservation of this "paradise" for future generations.

Whether you're planning a robust day hike into the basin or a serene overnight stay under a sky full of stars, Lower Royal Meadow provides a deeply fulfilling connection with Washington's wild heart. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect, breathe deeply, and appreciate the raw, untamed landscapes that make our state so special. For those ready for a moderately challenging hike leading to immense natural beauty, Lower Royal Meadow is an essential item on any local's outdoor adventure list.

Lower Royal Meadow

Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA