How much does camping cost at Staircase Campground?

Camping fees at Staircase Campground range from $24/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Staircase Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Staircase Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Staircase Campground before I book?

Yes! Staircase Campground has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Staircase Campground?

Staircase Campground is open Open May 23 - September 8, 2025. Access road typically closed November through May.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Staircase Campground?

Staircase Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Staircase Campground have?

Staircase Campground has 49 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Staircase Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Staircase Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Staircase Campground?

Staircase Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Staircase Campground

4.46

267 reviews

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Top 5%Summer

Scenic ViewsGreat HikingSwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Olympic National Park#2 Forest Camping

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

820 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

49 campsites

Season

Open May 23 - Septem...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Olympic National Park Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

820 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

49 campsites

Season

Open May 23 - Septem...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Olympic National Park Official Website

Get Directions

Staircase Campground

$24.00 - $24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Regular: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Campground Map

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Staircase Campground

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Nearby places

Olympia (1-hour drive), Port Angeles (2-hour drive)

Weather at Staircase Campground

Current alerts(6)

Help keep our wildlife wild by following proper food storage practices. All food and scented items must be stored in a vehicle or an animal resistant food container when not in use.
Most campsites in Staircase cannot accommodate large RVs or trailers. Please read campsite details and warnings carefully before reserving a site. There is limited parking available in the campground.
Pets are not allowed on hiking trails in Olympic National Park. Pets are allowed in developed areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, roads, parking lots, and some paved trails. Pets must be leashed (up to 6 feet) and always attached to a human.
Staircase campground has a 7-day maximum stay limit during the reservation season. There is a 21-day maximum stay limit for all Olympic National Park campgrounds collectively in a calendar year.

Best Time to Camp at Staircase Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of reliable access, warm days, and full recreation — expect pleasant daytime highs around 60–75°F and cool nights in the mid-40s to mid-50s. Trails to alpine lakes and river access are snow-free, making hiking, swimming, boating, and fishing at their peak; wildlife viewing is excellent in the mornings and evenings. Campground facilities and the access road are open (campground typically open late May through early September), so expect moderate crowds on summer Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 5% in US

Open late May–early Sept; best weather and full trail/amenity access; busiest and most recommended season.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open May 23 - September 8, 2025. Access road typically closed November through May.

About Staircase Campground

Staircase Campground sits in Olympic National Park along the North Fork Skokomish River at low elevation, operated by the National Park Service. The mid-sized campground accommodates tent, RV, and primitive camping with flush and vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Visitors hike trails to alpine lakes, spot deer and birds along the river, and attend ranger-led cultural programs.

Staircase Campground is a versatile camping area ideal for tent campers, small RVs, and walk-in sites. It offers a mix of first-come, first-served and reservable sites.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of reliable access, warm days, and full recreation — expect pleasant daytime highs around 60–75°F and cool nights in the mid-40s to mid-50s. Trails to alpine lakes and river access are snow-free, making hiking, swimming, boating, and fishing at their peak; wildlife viewing is excellent in the mornings and evenings. Campground facilities and the access road are open (campground typically open late May through early September), so expect moderate crowds on summer Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation820 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryMassive Douglas-firs dominate the canopy, their trunks rising overhead without much undergrowth below. The North Fork Skokomish River runs close enough to many sites that you fall asleep to moving water. Trails start from camp: one leads to Staircase Rapids, another climbs to Flapjack Lakes and alpine meadows above the treeline. Lake Cushman sits nearby for swimming and boating. Wildlife appears regularly. Deer wander through camp, and birders report good variety in the mornings and evenings.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges or alternative accommodations are available within the park.

Programs & ActivitiesRangers conduct talks and discovery walks. One mentioned program included a 'fern discovery walk' led by Rangers Christopher and Ginger.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum 7 nights during peak season
21 days annually across Olympic National Park campgrounds.

Guests Allowed Per Site

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Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Advance bookings available via staggered block releases.

AccessibilityAccessibility is limited, as many trails and campsites have uneven terrain, large roots, and rocky areas. Some sites require climbing or descending small hills.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size but are generally large enough for a tent or small RV. Some sites can accommodate up to three tents.

PrivacyPrivacy is minimal due to the tall, mature trees that lack undergrowth. Campers note that 'you can pretty much see from one end of the campground to the other.

Total Campsites49 campsites

Recommended SitesArrive early for walk-in sites to secure the best spots near the river. Bring sturdy sleeping pads for rocky tent areas.

Best CampsitesRiverfront sites get the highest ratings for proximity to water and views. Arrive early during peak season to claim one. Some sites fit up to three tents if you're traveling with a group.

Need help booking Staircase Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Staircase Campground is a basic yet scenic campground situated in the southeastern corner of Olympic National Park. It features 49 sites, some located along the North Fork Skokomish River. The campground is "remote but doesn't feel like it" due to its convenient restroom facilities and access to hiking trails. However, it lacks showers and electricity hookups, with only flush and vault toilets available. Flush toilets are described as clean but have no lights or hot water. The campground has potable water, and sinks are provided for dishwashing. Fire rings and picnic tables are available at individual sites. There is no Wi-Fi, but cell service is described as unavailable, which some campers appreciate for the feeling of getting away from it all. Firewood is not sold on-site, so campers are advised to bring their own. Accessibility is limited due to uneven terrain and minimal signage.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Staircase Campground offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby trails provide breathtaking views of rivers, forests, and mountains, with options for both casual and experienced hikers. Lake Cushman is also within walking distance, adding opportunities for water activities.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.5

267 reviews

Recommended

Staircase Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Staircase Campground is highly praised for its scenic beauty, access to outdoor activities, and well-maintained facilities. However, many users report issues with ranger behavior, campsite privacy, and strict rules.

Review Summaries

Based on 267 reviews

What Campers Love

- Breathtaking scenery and proximity to the river - Clean restrooms and well-maintained campsites - Excellent hiking trails starting from the campground - Cultural programs and ranger talks -...

Based on 267 reviews

Common Concerns

- Lack of showers - Limited privacy between campsites - Stringent enforcement of rules by rangers - No on-site firewood sales - Some campsites have uneven or rocky ground

Based on 267 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Campsite #41: Beautiful with minimal privacy but well-patrolled by rangers. - Campsite #15: Walk-in site with running water, sinks, and flushing toilets nearby. - Campsite #26: Close to trails but...

Based on 267 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Arrive early for better campsite selection, especially during peak season. - Bring your own firewood as it's not sold on-site. - Be prepared for uneven terrain and bring a good sleeping pad if tent...

Based on 267 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during the summer season (June to August), with many visitors praising the clean facilities and beautiful trails. Winter months are quieter but come with limited amenities...

Based on 267 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The views are like no other. The campground sits right on the river and some sites have epic views." - Yulia Konovnitsyna 2. "The ranger station has helpful staff and maps. There are many trails...

Based on 267 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is limited with uneven terrain and trails that are not wheelchair-friendly. Vault toilets lack adequate ventilation.

Based on 267 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed in the campground but are prohibited from hiking trails. Dogs must be leashed at all times. One user criticized the strict 6-foot leash rule.

Based on 267 reviews

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Go if

You want National Park scenery, maintained facilities, and direct access to alpine lake trails.

Skip if

You need privacy between sites or prefer campgrounds without strict leash enforcement.

Nearby Campgrounds

Olympic National Forest

Big Creek Campground sits at 920 feet elevation in Olympic National Forest, 15 minutes from Lake Cushman and beneath Mt. Ellinor. The 65-site campground operates on a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy and costs $20 per night. Cell service is nonexistent. Second-growth cedar and Douglas fir provide dense privacy between sites, and the Mt. Ellinor trailhead is close enough to hike from camp.