The Amazing Campground in Washington We Want to Visit All-Year Round

Thanks to our temperate climate, Washingtonians can enjoy camping at state parks throughout the year. Though you may need to work around winter schedules, limited office and interpretive center hours, and inclement weather, off-season camping has some big benefits. Prices may be cheaper and — particularly in high-traffic areas — you won't encounter the crowds that can throw a spanner in your back-to-nature aspirations. While you can certainly outsmart the rain with an RV, my favorite year-round campgrounds embrace the basics. With just a little strategizing and special gear, your night at spots like Kalaloch Campground in Forks won't leave you wishing you'd opted for the hotel chain down the road.

Olympic National Park is one of the Evergreen State's most beloved destinations. And why wouldn't it be? This iconic region contains verdant forests, rugged coastline, and fascinating wildlife. All these superlatives attract about three million visitors annually, most of whom arrive in the summer. In peak season, Kalaloch's 160 campsites are often fully booked and you'll need reservations if you plan on staying there between the months of May and September. That said, if you arrive in the winter, sites are claimed on a first-come, first-served basis. With the sharp drop-off in bookings, you'll find it easier to lock down desirable spots, optimizing your access to the nearby beach and local facilities.

Speaking of facilities, expect basic amenities during your stay. There are no hook-ups at Kalaloch and no showers. Campsites are stripped to the basics, including a picnic table and campfire ring. Stay warm with dry wood purchased from nearby Kalaloch Mercantile. Or, if you want something to eat that you can't cook outdoors, check out Creekside Restaurant, just a ten-minute walk from the campground. This delicious spot celebrates sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, boasting an extensive menu and stunning coastal views.

Spend blustery mornings strolling down the beach, which stretches just down the slope from the campground. Granted, I'm a fan of rugged Pacific Northwest beaches, but not much is better to me than taking in the ocean on an overcast day, clutching a mug of hot coffee. Washington's famous Tree of Life is also located at Kalaloch, giving you a chance to mark this mesmerizing regional attraction off your bucket list.

With just a little extra planning and equipment, winter camping is possible in Washington. Not only is it possible, it has major upsides, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to sidestep the crowds and reservations that can make summertime expeditions a hassle. One of my favorite spots for off-season camping in Washington is Kalaloch Campground in Forks, a gem of coastal beauty. What it doesn't offer in abundant amenities, it more than makes up for in atmosphere, location, and privacy.