Gatton Creek Campground/Day Use Area
4.606 reviewsGatton Creek Campground/Day Use Area
$12.50 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$25.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation Use fee: $25 per night, with a discounted rate of $12.50 for Senior Pass and Access Pass holders.
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About this campground
Tucked away on the pristine south shore of Lake Quinault, Gatton Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of the Pacific Northwest rainforest. This hidden gem features just five secluded walk-in tent sites, each positioned to capture breathtaking lake views through a canopy of ancient trees. The melodic babble of Gatton Creek provides a natural soundtrack as it winds through the campground, while three thoughtfully placed picnic areas invite leisurely afternoons by the water. Renowned among seasoned campers for its exceptional privacy and stunning natural setting, this small campground delivers an authentic wilderness experience without sacrificing accessibility.
The Gatton Creek Campground is designed for walk-in tent camping with a total of 5 sites. There are no RV or developed camping facilities, making it ideal for those seeking a more primitive, nature-focused experience.
Historical SignificanceGatton Creek Campground sits within the storied Olympic National Forest, a landscape that has sustained indigenous peoples for thousands of years and continues to hold deep cultural significance for the Quinault Indian Nation. This corner of the Quinault Rainforest represents one of the finest examples of temperate rainforest ecology in North America, where centuries-old giants like Sitka spruce and western red cedar stand as living monuments to the region's natural heritage. The campground serves as a gateway to understanding the delicate balance between preservation and recreation that defines the Olympic Peninsula's conservation story.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground transforms with the seasons, each offering its own unique charm. Winter months bring the full drama of the temperate rainforest, with misty mornings and the rhythmic patter of rain creating an atmospheric retreat for hardy adventurers. As spring emerges, the forest bursts to life with vibrant greens and wildflowers. Summer unveils the campground's full splendor, with warm, moderate temperatures and crystal-clear skies perfect for swimming, hiking, and stargazing. Early June offers a particularly magical window—before the peak season crowds arrive, visitors can experience the tranquil beauty of the rainforest in relative solitude, making it an ideal time for those seeking a peaceful communion with nature.
ElevationNestled at lake level along Quinault's serene shores, the campground's gentle, low-elevation terrain makes it accessible to campers of all abilities. This lakeside positioning creates a unique microclimate where the temperate rainforest meets the water's edge, fostering an incredibly diverse ecosystem while providing comfortable camping conditions throughout the extended season.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in one of nature's most spectacular theaters, where towering evergreens draped in moss create a emerald cathedral overhead. The campground's prime lakefront location offers unobstructed views across Lake Quinault's mirror-like surface to the forest-cloaked slopes of Olympic National Park beyond. Morning mists rise from the water to mingle with the forest canopy, while eagles soar overhead and Roosevelt elk occasionally emerge from the understory. The surrounding old-growth rainforest showcases nature's artistry with massive nurse logs supporting new life, delicate ferns carpeting the forest floor, and the constant interplay of light filtering through the dense canopy.
Geological RegionSet within the enchanting Quinault Rainforest ecosystem, the campground occupies a remarkable geological position where ancient glacial forces carved out Lake Quinault and shaped the surrounding landscape. This temperate rainforest environment, nourished by abundant Pacific moisture and mild temperatures, creates optimal conditions for some of the world's largest trees. The dramatic backdrop of Olympic National Park's forested slopes tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where tectonic forces lifted ancient seafloor to create the Olympic Mountains, now cloaked in the verdant rainforest that makes this region internationally renowned.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe campground consists of 5 walk-in campsites designed for tents.
Sites PrivacyAccording to reviews, the sites are relatively private and separated by bushes.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest sites offer privacy and lakefront access; ideal for tent campers seeking seclusion.
Best CampsitesUser reviews indicate all 5 sites are premium due to proximity to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not provided.
Check-out
Not provided.
Stay Limit
Not provided in authoritative sources.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not documented.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout5 walk-in sites located near the lake shoreline; sites are separated by bushes and vegetation for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonNo specific season restrictions mentioned, but historically quieter during early June.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations – First-come, first-served policy.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll five campsites are first-come, first-served based on user reviews and authoritative descriptions.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations for individual campsites incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. No refunds for day-of cancellations. Scan & Pay payments are non-refundable.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Gatton Creek Campground can enjoy swimming, non-motorized boating, and hiking. It provides easy access to Lake Quinault and the scenic Gatton Creek Trail #888.
Hiking
The Gatton Creek Trail #888 can be accessed directly across from the campground along South Shore Road.Swimming
The campground provides opportunities for swimming in Lake Quinault.Boating
Non-motorized boating is available as the nearest boat ramps are located at the Willaby and Falls Creek campgrounds.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are available due to the lake access.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No details provided; users are advised to check local fire regulations.
- Quiet hours are Not documented.
Hazards
General hazardsHeavy rainfall may occur during winter periods, along with potential wildlife encounters typical of rainforest regions.
Active alertsNone explicitly mentioned.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Foggy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesNot provided.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information on trash and recycling facilities was provided.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Lake Quinault, and next to Gatton Creek.
Common complaintsLimited amenities, such as no hookups or potable water at each site, mentioned in user reviews.
HostNot documented.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Aberdeen, WA travel north on US Highway 101 for 45 miles to the junction of the South Shore Road. Turn right (east) and proceed 2.8 miles on South Shore Road and turn left into the Gatton Creek Campground and Day Use parking area.
Accessible via paved roads, with a straightforward route from U.S. Highway 101 and South Shore Road.Nearby places
Aberdeen, WA (45 miles, approximately 1 hour)
Camper Reviews
4.6
6 reviews
Gatton Creek Campground/Day Use Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its lakeside location, privacy, cleanliness, and peaceful atmosphere. It is praised as a great spot for tent camping.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers consistently highlight the campground's privacy, excellent location on the lake, and the clean condition of the vault toilets. The proximity to Gatton Creek Trail is also appreciated.
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
The limited number of campsites (only 5) means it can be difficult to secure a spot. Some users noted the lack of amenities beyond basic facilities.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure one of the 5 first-come-first-served sites. Bring all necessary supplies as amenities are minimal. Seniors with passes can benefit from a discounted rate.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground is quieter during the off-season (e.g., June) and can get busy in peak summer months. The peacefulness and beauty of the location are appreciated year-round.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Honestly maybe the most premium little campsite I've ever stayed at." - Kelvin Price; "5 cute spots by the beach! FCFS! Paved parking lot. Clean pit toilets." - Meli; "There are only 5 spots here...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews are limited but indicate that all 5 tent sites are highly desirable due to their lakeside location. Privacy and proximity to the lake are applauded.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No explicit feedback on accessibility features was provided.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews related to pets were mentioned.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025