Mount Tom Creek

For Washington State locals with a passion for true wilderness immersion, Mount Tom Creek is not just a campground; it’s an incredible backpacking destination deep within the iconic Olympic National Park. Located near Forks, WA, this backcountry campsite offers an authentic and unforgettable experience within one of the world's most magnificent temperate rainforests. Imagine trees "dripping with moss," ferns so "giant" they feel prehistoric, and the constant symphony of nature surrounding you. This is the essence of Mount Tom Creek, a place designed for those who want to disconnect from the everyday and fully embrace the wild.

Mount Tom Creek is more than just a place to pitch your tent; it's a gateway to an enchanting ecosystem where every turn of the trail reveals new wonders. From the beautiful waterfall right next to the campsite to the chance encounters with deer by the river, this spot constantly invites you to "stop to enjoy new things in nature." It embodies the spirit of raw, untouched wilderness, offering a profound sense of peace and adventure that can only be found by venturing into the heart of Olympic National Park's backcountry. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or looking to embark on a multi-day journey into a truly spectacular forest, Mount Tom Creek promises an experience where the natural world takes center stage.

Mount Tom Creek is a wilderness campsite located on the renowned Hoh River Trail within Olympic National Park, near Forks, WA 98331, USA. It is approximately 2.8 miles from the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center and trailhead, making it one of the earlier and more accessible backpacking campsites along this popular route.

To access Mount Tom Creek, visitors first need to drive to the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center. From Forks, a key town on the Olympic Peninsula, you’ll take Upper Hoh Road (sometimes called Hoh Rain Forest Road) for about 18 miles to its end, where the Visitor Center and the Hoh River Trailhead are located. The drive itself is scenic, winding through lush forests. Once at the trailhead, the journey to Mount Tom Creek begins on foot along the Hoh River Trail. This section of the trail is generally considered easy to moderate, relatively flat, and well-maintained for the first several miles, making it suitable for backpackers of varying experience levels. However, as Mount Tom Creek is a wilderness campsite, there is no direct vehicle access to the individual sites. All gear and supplies must be carried in. It is crucial to remember that backpacking permits are required year-round for all overnight stays in Olympic National Park wilderness areas, including Mount Tom Creek. These permits must be obtained in advance through Recreation.gov or by contacting the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles. Being prepared with your permit and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles is essential for accessing and enjoying this pristine backcountry location.

As a wilderness backpacking campsite, Mount Tom Creek offers a more primitive and self-sufficient experience compared to developed drive-in campgrounds. Services are minimal, focusing on preserving the natural environment while providing essential necessities for backcountry users. Based on typical Olympic National Park wilderness site provisions and user reviews, services at Mount Tom Creek would include:

• Designated Individual Campsites: Mount Tom Creek features several individual campsites (e.g., 3 individual sites, plus 1 group site according to some sources). These are pre-existing, durable surfaces to minimize impact on the surrounding delicate rainforest.

• Natural Water Source: Water is available from Mount Tom Creek or the nearby Hoh River. However, all water must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption due to potential contaminants.

• Bear Wires / Food Storage: To protect both wildlife (especially bears and rodents) and visitor food, community bear wires are typically provided at wilderness campsites along the Hoh River Trail, including Mount Tom Creek. Campers are required to hang all food, garbage, and scented items at least 12 feet high and 10 feet from the tree trunk, or use park-approved bear canisters, which are mandatory in some other park areas and highly recommended elsewhere.

• Primitive Toilets (Pit or Vault): While specific details for Mount Tom Creek's facilities are limited in general public data, wilderness campsites often have primitive pit or vault toilets to manage human waste. If not, campers must be prepared to dig cat holes at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites, and pack out all toilet paper.

• No Potable Water (treated): Unlike developed campgrounds, there are no spigots with treated drinking water; all water must be treated by the user.

• No Showers or Flush Toilets: There are no showers or flush toilets available at this backcountry site.

• No Trash Service: Visitors must adhere to Leave No Trace principles, meaning all trash, including food scraps, must be packed out of the wilderness area.

• Immersive Temperate Rainforest Experience: Mount Tom Creek is a prime example of the lush Olympic temperate rainforest. The review highlights "trees are dripping with moss" and "ferns are giant," painting a vivid picture of this unique, verdant ecosystem. It's a place where you're truly surrounded by ancient, moss-laden trees and vibrant undergrowth.

• Beautiful Waterfall at Campsite: A significant highlight mentioned in a review is the "beautiful waterfall right next to the campsite!" This adds a serene and picturesque element to the camping experience, offering a soothing natural soundtrack and a stunning visual feature.

• Wildlife Encounters: The opportunity to see wildlife is a key feature, with reviews noting chances of "the deer coming close to you" if you sit quietly by the river. Roosevelt elk are also common in the Hoh River valley, enhancing the wilderness experience.

• Access to Hoh River Trail: As a site on the famous Hoh River Trail, campers have direct access to one of Olympic National Park's most beloved and scenic backpacking routes. This trail offers varying lengths of exploration, from short day hikes to multi-day journeys deeper into the wilderness towards Glacier Meadows and Mount Olympus.

• "Leave No Trace" Environment: The emphasis on Leave No Trace principles helps maintain the pristine condition of the area. This commitment ensures the beauty of Mount Tom Creek is preserved for future generations, contributing to an unspoiled natural setting.

• Peaceful and Disconnecting Atmosphere: Being a wilderness site, Mount Tom Creek offers an unparalleled level of peace and quiet, far from the distractions of urban life. The absence of cell service fosters a true opportunity to disconnect and fully appreciate the natural surroundings.

Address: Forks, WA 98331, USA

For wilderness camping permits and the most accurate, up-to-date information on Mount Tom Creek and other Olympic National Park wilderness sites, it is essential to contact the official National Park Service.

Wilderness Information Center (WIC) Phone: (360) 565-3100

Permits are primarily obtained through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to check the Olympic National Park's official website for current wilderness regulations, permit availability, food storage requirements (e.g., bear canisters or proper hanging), trail conditions, and any alerts before planning your backpacking trip.

For Washington locals, Mount Tom Creek offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience the unparalleled beauty and ruggedness of Olympic National Park's backcountry, right in their own state. It's the ultimate destination for those seeking a true escape from urban life and a deep immersion in nature. The reviews clearly articulate the allure: a place where "trees are dripping with moss," "ferns are giant," and a "beautiful waterfall" awaits right by the campsite. This intimate connection with an ancient, vibrant rainforest is a unique privilege for Washington residents.

The emphasis on backpacking, wilderness permits, and Leave No Trace principles means that visitors to Mount Tom Creek are typically those who deeply value conservation and respect the environment. This aligns well with the outdoor ethic often found among Washingtonians. The chance to sit by the river and potentially have deer approach, as one reviewer noted, highlights the rich wildlife encounters possible in this relatively untouched area. For those who appreciate the quietude of no cell service and the challenge of a true backcountry experience, Mount Tom Creek offers exactly that: a place to spend "a day or two" that will undoubtedly feel like a world away.

It's an ideal spot for Washington locals to hone their backpacking skills, introduce family to authentic wilderness, or simply find profound solitude amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Olympic Peninsula. While it requires preparation and adherence to wilderness guidelines, the reward is an unparalleled encounter with one of Washington's most iconic and pristine natural treasures.

Mount Tom Creek

Forks, WA 98331, USA