Two Bear

For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers across Washington, the call of the wild often leads to the stunning, expansive landscapes of Olympic National Park. Within this majestic wilderness, finding a truly authentic and tranquil camping experience can be a rewarding quest. Today, we're focusing on Two Bear Campground, a rustic and serene campsite that offers a genuine immersion into the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty. This article is designed to provide clear, engaging, and factual information about Two Bear Campground, helping local users understand what makes this particular spot a unique and memorable destination for their next outdoor adventure.

Camping in Washington's national parks provides an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature. Two Bear Campground, known for its location below First Divide, offers a more primitive and secluded experience compared to larger, more developed campgrounds. We understand that choosing a campsite involves considering various factors, from accessibility and amenities to the overall atmosphere. Our aim here is to equip you with all the necessary details about Two Bear Campground, ensuring you have the insights needed to determine if it aligns with your vision of a true Washington wilderness getaway.

Two Bear Campground is located within Olympic National Park in Washington, USA. While a precise street address in the traditional sense isn't applicable for a wilderness campground, its location is significant for adventurers. It is situated "just below First Divide," which is a notable landmark along the North Fork Skokomish River Trail. This trail is a prominent route within Olympic National Park, accessible from the Staircase Ranger Station.

Access to Two Bear Campground is primarily by foot, making it a destination for backpackers and those seeking a more remote camping experience. The North Fork Skokomish Trail, leading to First Divide and passing Two Bear Camp, is a scenic route through lowland forest river valleys that ascends into subalpine meadows. The hike to First Divide from the Staircase trailhead is approximately 13.1 miles, meaning Two Bear Campground is likely located a considerable distance into this trail. For local Washingtonians who enjoy multi-day backpacking trips, this location offers a deep dive into the heart of the Olympic Mountains. Given its wilderness setting, visitors should be prepared for varying trail conditions, including potential snow at higher elevations, depending on the season. Always check with the Olympic National Park Service for current trail conditions and necessary permits before embarking on your journey to Two Bear Campground.

As a wilderness campground located within Olympic National Park, Two Bear offers a more rustic camping experience, emphasizing self-sufficiency and minimal impact. Based on the provided review, the services available are basic but essential for a wilderness setting:

• Campsites: The campground features designated "small and mostly level" campsites. These are typically primitive sites, meaning they generally do not include amenities like picnic tables or fire rings found in more developed campgrounds, unless specifically noted by the park service.
• Bear Wire: A "bear wire handy" is a crucial safety feature for storing food and scented items away from bears and other wildlife, ensuring a safer camping experience and protecting wildlife.
• Proximity to a Small Stream: There is a "small stream on the back side of the camp sites," which is a valuable natural water source (though water purification is always necessary in the wilderness).
• Restroom Facilities (User Maintained): The review notes, "The restroom is dog your own though." This phrase suggests that the restroom facility, if present, is a pit toilet or composting toilet that requires campers to bring their own toilet paper and maintain cleanliness, embodying a Leave No Trace ethic. (This typically implies very basic, unserviced facilities.)

It is important to remember that this is a wilderness campground. Therefore, expect no potable water, flush toilets, electricity, or trash services. Campers must pack out everything they pack in, including all waste, and be prepared to filter or treat all water from natural sources.

Two Bear Campground, despite its rustic nature, offers several compelling features that appeal to specific types of campers and outdoor enthusiasts:

• True Wilderness Experience: For those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in untouched nature, Two Bear offers a genuine wilderness camping experience within a national park setting.
• Strategic Location for Backpackers: Its position "just below First Divide" makes it an ideal stop for multi-day backpacking trips along the North Fork Skokomish River Trail, serving as a base camp for exploring higher elevations.
• Scenic Surroundings: Being in Olympic National Park means the campground is surrounded by lush forests, potentially offering views of the craggy Olympic Range and the beauty of the North Fork Skokomish River valley.
• Bear Safety Infrastructure: The presence of a "bear wire handy" is a significant safety feature, providing peace of mind for campers concerned about wildlife encounters and ensuring proper food storage.
• Proximity to Natural Water Source: A "small stream" nearby is a convenient feature for water resupply, though purification is essential.
• Quiet and Secluded: Given its backcountry nature and access requirements, the campground is likely to be quieter and less crowded than drive-in campgrounds, perfect for those seeking solitude.

For information regarding Two Bear Campground, including trail conditions, wilderness permits, and regulations within Olympic National Park, it is best to contact the Olympic National Park directly. While a phone number for "Two Bear" is provided (360) 565-3130, this is the main phone number for Olympic National Park Headquarters, which is the appropriate contact for inquiries about backcountry campgrounds like Two Bear.

Address: Washington, USA (Specific address for Two Bear Campground is within Olympic National Park's wilderness area, not a street address.)

Phone: (360) 565-3130

Mobile Phone: +1 360-565-3130

Always verify information with the National Park Service before your trip, especially concerning wilderness permits, trail conditions, and any seasonal closures or alerts.

For Washingtonians, Two Bear Campground offers a unique and highly suitable opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of their home state's Olympic National Park. This campground is particularly well-suited for local outdoor enthusiasts who are experienced backpackers or are looking to embark on a true wilderness adventure. Its location "just below First Divide" means it provides access to some of the park's more challenging and rewarding trails, making it an excellent destination for those seeking to push their limits and explore deeper into the Olympic wilderness.

The rustic nature of Two Bear, with its small, level sites, nearby stream, and crucial bear wire, appeals to locals who appreciate a primitive camping experience and are committed to Leave No Trace principles. It offers a genuine escape from the everyday hustle, providing a quiet and secluded environment that allows for a profound connection with nature. For Washington residents who prioritize challenging hikes, stunning natural scenery, and a truly immersive backcountry experience over amenities, Two Bear Campground stands out as an ideal and authentic destination within the beloved Olympic National Park.

Two Bear

Washington, USA