Spike Camp

For Washington locals eager to dip their toes into the rewarding world of backcountry camping, or for seasoned hikers seeking a convenient base for exploring deeper into Olympic National Park, Spike Camp presents an excellent opportunity. Situated a manageable distance along the North Fork Skokomish River Trail near Hoodsport, this primitive campground offers a quintessential wilderness experience without the extreme demands of more remote, high-elevation sites. It's a stepping stone into the vast beauty of the Olympic Mountains, providing a quiet retreat where the sounds of the forest and river become your soundtrack.

Spike Camp is particularly well-regarded as a suitable destination for "novice and beginner hikers to camp," making it an inviting option for families or individuals looking to build their confidence in wilderness environments. While it maintains a rustic charm, it provides essential facilities that enhance the comfort of a backcountry stay. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Spike Camp, focusing on its strategic location, the fundamental services it offers, its key features and highlights, and vital contact information for planning your adventure. For Washingtonians, it represents an accessible entry point into the breathtaking wildlands that are so integral to our state's identity.

Spike Camp is a backcountry campsite located within Olympic National Park, specifically along the North Fork Skokomish River Trail. Its general location is near Hoodsport, WA 98548, USA, but it is not a drive-up campground with a physical street address. To reach Spike Camp, visitors must embark on a hike from a designated trailhead, most commonly the Staircase Ranger Station.

The hike to Spike Camp is approximately 3.5 miles from the Staircase trailhead. This distance is a significant part of its appeal, as it offers a challenging enough uphill journey to provide a sense of accomplishment and deter overly casual visitors, yet it remains very achievable for "novice and beginner hikers." The trail generally follows the beautiful North Fork Skokomish River, winding through dense, old-growth forests that are characteristic of the Olympic Peninsula. The initial part of the trail is well-maintained, but hikers should always be prepared for typical Pacific Northwest trail conditions, which can include roots, rocks, and occasional muddy sections.

Accessibility to the Staircase trailhead, the starting point for the hike to Spike Camp, is typically via roads leading from Hoodsport, WA. These roads may transition from paved to gravel, requiring drivers to be attentive, but generally, the approach is manageable for most vehicles. For Washington locals, Spike Camp offers an excellent opportunity for a weekend backpacking trip, being a relatively short and rewarding hike from major population centers in the Puget Sound region. Its strategic location also makes it a perfect base camp for more ambitious day hikes further into the wilderness, such as the popular trek up to Flapjack Lakes.

• Designated Campsites: Spike Camp provides several areas for tents and hammocks, offering established spots for campers to set up their overnight shelters.
• Newer Pit Toilet (Outhouse): The campground features an on-site pit toilet (outhouse). While backcountry privies can vary, recent reviews highlight the presence of a "newer" outhouse, which is a significant amenity in a primitive setting.
• Water Access: Water is readily available from the North Fork Skokomish River or nearby streams. However, all water sources in the backcountry must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption to prevent waterborne illnesses.
• Food Storage (Bear Wires/Canisters): While not explicitly detailed in all reviews for this specific camp, Olympic National Park wilderness regulations generally require proper food storage using bear wires (available at some camps) or personal bear canisters to protect against wildlife. Visitors should confirm the specific food storage method for Spike Camp with the park.
• Primitive Backcountry Experience: The core "service" provided is an authentic, no-frills wilderness camping experience, focusing on self-reliance and Leave No Trace principles.

• Ideal for Novice/Beginner Backpackers: Its relatively short and manageable 3.5-mile uphill hike makes it an excellent entry-level backcountry destination, perfect for those new to overnight hiking.
• Gateway to Deeper Wilderness: Spike Camp serves as an excellent base for further exploration. From here, more experienced hikers can embark on challenging day trips to stunning destinations like Flapjack Lakes.
• Peaceful Forest Setting: Nestled within the lush old-growth forests of Olympic National Park, the camp offers a serene and immersive natural environment.
• Conveniently Located Outhouse: The presence of a newer outhouse is a notable comfort for a primitive backcountry site, enhancing the camping experience.
• Ample Tent/Hammock Space: Reviewers note "several areas for tents/hammocks," indicating good options for setting up your chosen shelter.
• Beautiful Hiking Trail: The journey to Spike Camp itself is a "beautiful hike," providing scenic views along the North Fork Skokomish River.
• Sense of Accomplishment: Reaching this backcountry site, even after a moderate hike, provides a rewarding sense of achievement for all levels of hikers.

As Spike Camp is a backcountry wilderness campsite within Olympic National Park, it does not have a direct phone number for the campsite itself, nor is it staffed. For all inquiries regarding wilderness permits, current trail conditions, park regulations, and general information about backcountry camping in Olympic National Park, locals should contact the Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center.

Address: Hoodsport, WA 98548, USA (This refers to the general region of the park entrance nearest Spike Camp. For official park contact, use the main park headquarters address.)

Phone: (360) 565-3100 (Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center)

Note: Wilderness permits are mandatory for all overnight stays at Spike Camp. These permits can typically be obtained through Recreation.gov or directly from the Wilderness Information Center. It is highly recommended to check current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and any specific park advisories or closures before planning your backpacking trip.

For Washington locals, Spike Camp offers an excellent and highly suitable entry point into the rich tapestry of backcountry experiences available within Olympic National Park. Its appeal to residents across the state, from novice outdoor enthusiasts to seasoned adventurers, lies in its balanced blend of accessibility, moderate challenge, and the promise of genuine wilderness immersion.

One of the primary reasons Spike Camp is ideal for Washingtonians is its perfect distance for those new to backpacking. The 3.5-mile uphill hike provides enough of a physical challenge to feel like a true backcountry endeavor, yet it’s manageable enough that it won't deter beginners or require extensive training. This makes it an invaluable resource for locals looking to introduce themselves or their families to the joys of multi-day hiking and wilderness camping, building confidence and skills in a relatively safe and achievable environment.

Furthermore, Spike Camp serves as a strategic base camp for those seeking more ambitious adventures. For Washingtonians with a passion for exploring, its location allows for fantastic day hikes to stunning higher-elevation destinations like Flapjack Lakes. This flexibility means it can cater to various skill levels and trip aspirations, making it a versatile option within the Olympic National Park system. Locals appreciate these dual-purpose sites that can serve as both a comfortable first foray into the wilderness and a springboard for deeper explorations.

Finally, the natural beauty and sense of peace found at Spike Camp align perfectly with the Pacific Northwest's love for untouched landscapes. Camping among old-growth trees and the sounds of the North Fork Skokomish River provides an authentic and rejuvenating escape from urban life. The presence of a "newer outhouse" adds a touch of welcome comfort to the primitive setting, making the overall experience more enjoyable for those accustomed to developed campgrounds but eager to try something more rustic. For Washington locals ready to embrace the quiet grandeur of their state's wilderness, Spike Camp is a highly recommended and rewarding destination.

Spike Camp

Hoodsport, WA 98548, USA