Pros & cons
PROS
- Closest basecamp for Hurricane Ridge
- Shady old-growth setting with privacy
- Flush toilets and potable water
CONS
- No showers or RV hookups
- First-come, first-served and fills early in summer
Overview
Heart O' the Hills is the go-to campground for anyone targeting Hurricane Ridge. Tucked into lush, mossy old-growth just off Hurricane Ridge Road south of Port Angeles, it feels deep-in-the-woods yet keeps you poised for dawn views and day hikes up high.
What Makes It Different
- Location, location: it’s the closest developed campground to Hurricane Ridge, so sunrise/sunset runs are easy.
- The vibe is classic Olympic Peninsula—towering evergreens, ferny understory, and a cool, shaded ambiance even in midsummer.
Campsites & Amenities
There are 105 sites, all first-come, first-served. Expect standard picnic tables and fire rings at each site, plus flush restrooms and potable water. No showers and no hookups, so plan to be self-sufficient. It’s peaceful and feels private thanks to dense forest and well-spaced sites.
Wildlife
Deer wander through regularly, with squirrels and songbirds common. Higher up the ridge, occasional black bear sightings get reported; keep a clean camp and follow food-storage rules.
How to Snag a Site
This place is popular and often fills early on summer weekends. Your best bet: arrive late morning to early afternoon. Some loops may be closed at times during utility work or shoulder seasons, so flexibility helps.
Practical Notes
- Stock up in Port Angeles before heading up.
- Nights run cool in the trees—bring warm layers even in June.
- Expect damp ground and bugs in late spring; tarps and repellent pay off.
- Cell service is spotty at best—download what you need ahead of time.
Nearby and Why to Stay Here
From camp, you’re a short drive to the Hurricane Ridge area’s panoramic viewpoints and trails. It’s the most convenient staging point if your trip revolves around the ridge.
Best Time to Visit
- Days of week: Midweek for easier site pickings.
- Time of day: Arrive by late morning to claim a spot; explore Hurricane Ridge at sunrise/sunset for softer light and fewer people.
- Season: Summer is busiest; shoulder seasons are calmer but cooler and wetter.
Where it is
48.0363, -123.4298Tips for Heart O' the Hills Campground
- 01Arrive by late morning in summer—sites often fill by afternoon.
- 02Bring rain gear and warm layers; the forest stays cool and damp.
- 03Buy food, fuel, and extras in Port Angeles before heading up the road.
- 04No showers or hookups—come prepared to dry camp.
- 05Check current Hurricane Ridge road status before committing your plans.
Amenities
Near Heart O' the Hills Campground
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayLake AngelesEmerald cirque lake with a tough approach and big-view optionsScenic Viewpoint · Campground
0.2 mi awayHeather Park TrailSteep climb to quiet alpine meadows and big Hurricane Ridge views.Challenging · 10 mi · 6 hr
0.2 mi awayLake Angeles TrailSteady forest climb to a serene alpine lake in a glacial cirqueModerate · 7.4 mi · 5 hr
3.6 mi awayLittle River TrailQuiet river canyon through mossy old growth with flexible turnaroundsModerate · 7 mi · 3.5 hr
3.7 mi awaySwitchback Trail to Klahhane RidgeShort, switchback blitz to big Klahhane Ridge viewsChallenging · 3 mi · 2.5 hr
4.4 mi awayWilderness Information CenterPermit hub and ranger advice for all backcountry tripsVisitor Center · Restroom
4.4 mi awayThe Beaumont CabinQuick peek at pioneer life behind the main visitor centerExhibit · Parking
4.4 mi awayOlympic National Park Visitor CenterMain hub for permits, rangers, and a quick intro to the parkVisitor Center · Ranger Station
