Windy Lakes campground

For Washington State residents who truly embrace the call of the wild and seek an immersive backcountry experience, Windy Lakes Campground offers a remarkable, primitive escape within the majestic Olympic National Forest near Quilcene. This isn't a conventional drive-up campground with extensive amenities; instead, it's a reward for adventurers willing to hike into a serene, high-altitude environment, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Windy Lakes provides a genuine opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the raw, untamed spirit of the Pacific Northwest.

Often snow-covered into early June, Windy Lakes is a destination for those prepared for rugged conditions and self-sufficiency. It's a key camping spot along the journey to iconic peaks like Mount Townsend, making it a favorite among avid hikers and backpackers. The allure lies in its undisturbed wilderness, the quiet solitude it offers, and the stunning vistas that unfold as you approach and explore the area. If your idea of camping involves filtering your own water, flat terrain for pitching a tent, and being surrounded by the grandeur of Washington's mountains, then Windy Lakes Campground is a destination worth exploring.

Windy Lakes Campground is located within the Olympic National Forest near Quilcene, Washington, with an approximate address of FS-2700190, Quilcene, WA 98376, USA. This address typically refers to a forest service road or junction that provides access to the trailhead leading to the campground. It is crucial to understand that Windy Lakes is a hike-in, backcountry campground, not directly accessible by vehicle.

Access to Windy Lakes is primarily via the Mount Townsend Trail #839. To reach the trailhead, you would typically drive to Forest Service Road #27-190 from Quilcene. From Quilcene, one common approach involves heading south on US-101 for about a mile, then turning right onto Penny Creek Road. Drive approximately 1.4 miles, staying left at the "Y" to continue onto the Forest Service boundary and paved FS Road #27. Proceed on FS #27 for another 10.6 miles to FS Road #2760, or continue for one more mile on FS #27 and turn left onto FS Road #27-190. Follow FS #27-190 for about a mile to a small trailhead parking lot at the end of the road. From this upper trailhead, the hike to Windy Lakes is part of the overall journey to Mount Townsend. The trail can be heavily wooded in the first few miles, eventually opening up to meadows and spectacular mountain views. Due to its higher elevation, snow can persist well into early summer, even into June, so checking current trail conditions (especially snow levels) with the Olympic National Forest or Washington Trails Association is highly recommended before planning your trip.

As a primitive, backcountry campsite, Windy Lakes Campground offers minimal services. Campers must be entirely self-sufficient and adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles. The emphasis is on experiencing the wilderness in its natural state:

• Designated Primitive Campsites: Windy Lakes provides established, flat terrain suitable for pitching tents. These are typically informal sites, and campers are encouraged to use existing campsites to minimize impact. There may be two or three possible camping spots, none of which are very large.
• Water Source: Water is available from the lake itself or nearby streams. However, all water must be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated before consumption, as no potable water sources are provided.
• No Restrooms: There are no constructed restrooms or pit toilets at Windy Lakes. Campers are required to dig catholes for human waste at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites, and pack out all toilet paper and hygiene products.
• No Trash Disposal: All garbage, including food scraps, must be packed out by campers. There are no trash receptacles available.
• No Firewood Provided: Campers must either bring their own fuel for cooking (such as a portable stove) or collect small amounts of dead and downed wood for campfires, provided there is no burn ban in effect. It is crucial to check for fire restrictions before your trip.
• Bear Canister Requirement/Recommendation: Given the wilderness environment and presence of wildlife, storing food in bear-resistant containers or hanging it properly to prevent access by animals is essential and often required.
• No Cell Service: Visitors should expect no phone service at the campground, making it a true off-grid experience.

The true highlights of Windy Lakes Campground are its pristine natural environment and the challenging yet rewarding outdoor experiences it facilitates:

• Stunning Alpine Lake Setting: The campground is situated near Windy Lake, offering picturesque views and a serene atmosphere amidst the alpine landscape.
• Access to Mount Townsend: Windy Lakes is a popular spot for those hiking Mount Townsend, providing a convenient overnight base for summit attempts or exploring the higher reaches of the Olympic Mountains. Reviews specifically mention the "great hike" to the summit.
• Primitive Wilderness Experience: It offers a genuine backcountry camping experience, ideal for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature, far from developed facilities and crowds.
• Flat Camping Terrain: Despite its wilderness setting, reviews indicate flat terrain suitable for setting up camp, which is a significant advantage in rugged areas.
• Water Filtration Opportunities: The presence of the lake provides a reliable water source for filtering, a crucial feature for backcountry camping.
• Panoramic Views: As part of the Mt. Townsend Trail system, visitors can expect spectacular mountain views and open meadows once they ascend beyond the initial heavily wooded sections.
• Early Season Snow and Beauty: As noted in reviews, the area can be "fairly snow-covered early June," adding a unique, beautiful, and challenging dimension to spring visits for those equipped for it.
• Wildlife Viewing: The remote wilderness offers opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat, contributing to the immersive experience.
• Peaceful Solitude: Due to its hike-in nature and primitive status, Windy Lakes typically sees fewer visitors than drive-up campgrounds, providing a more peaceful and solitary experience.

As a primitive, hike-in campsite within the Olympic National Forest, Windy Lakes Campground does not have a direct phone number or dedicated on-site staff. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding trail conditions, snow levels, fire bans, or general regulations for camping in the Olympic National Forest, visitors should contact the managing agency.

Address: FS-2700190, Quilcene, WA 98376, USA (This refers to the general area of the trailhead access road and the wilderness within which the campground is located.)

For specific inquiries related to the Mount Townsend Trail or camping in the Buckhorn Wilderness area where Windy Lakes is located, it is best to contact the Hood Canal Ranger District – Quilcene Office of the Olympic National Forest. Their general contact information is:

Hood Canal Ranger District – Quilcene Office295142 Highway 101 S.P.O. Box 280Quilcene, WA 98376Phone: (360) 765-2200

Always verify information through the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Olympic National Forest or by calling the Ranger District directly before planning a trip, especially given the variable weather and trail conditions in a mountainous wilderness area.

Windy Lakes Campground is exceptionally suitable for locals in Washington State who are seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, backpackers, and those seeking a profound connection with the state's rugged natural beauty. Its location within the Olympic National Forest, near Quilcene, makes it an accessible wilderness destination for residents across the Puget Sound region, offering a true escape without the need for extensive cross-state travel.

For Washingtonians who are accustomed to challenging trails and appreciate self-reliance, the hike-in access to Windy Lakes is a feature, not a drawback. It filters out casual visitors, preserving the serene and pristine environment. The opportunity to camp on flat terrain by a beautiful alpine lake, with the promise of breathtaking views and direct access to popular hiking routes like Mount Townsend, perfectly aligns with the adventurous spirit of many Pacific Northwest residents.

The primitive nature of Windy Lakes, with its lack of services, appeals to those who are well-versed in Leave No Trace principles and prioritize an authentic, unadulterated wilderness experience. It's a chance to truly unplug, relying on one's skills and the natural environment for sustenance and shelter. For locals seeking solitude, a physical challenge, and the unparalleled beauty of Washington's high country, Windy Lakes Campground offers an unforgettable, quintessential Olympic National Forest adventure. Always be prepared for changing mountain weather and leave no trace to ensure this remarkable place remains pristine for generations to come.

Windy Lakes campground

FS-2700190, Quilcene, WA 98376, USA