Olympic National Park Rules: A Guide for State Park Touring Enthusiasts

Olympic National Park has specific rules and regulations that tourists and enthusiasts should be aware of before visiting. From entrance fees and pet policies to camping and wilderness travel, this comprehensive guide covers the essential information you need to plan your trip.

Entrance Fees and Passes

The park entrance fee is $30 for a private, non-commercial vehicle, $25 for individuals entering on a motorcycle, or $15 for individuals entering on foot or bicycle. Entrance fees are good for seven consecutive days. Annual, interagency, military, senior, 4th grade, and access passes are also available. Additional fees are charged for camping, wilderness overnight use, and commercial use.

Pet Policies

Olympic National Park Rules

Pets are allowed in the park, but they must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet when outside their owners’ vehicles. Dogs of any breed that are hostile or aggressive will be asked to leave the campground, along with their owners. There is a $25.00 non-refundable fee per pet per stay due at check-in. Pets must be leashed at all times, and a maximum of two pets are allowed. No size limit applies, but excessive cleaning fees may apply.

Camping Policies

  • RV Park: Check-in 1:00 pm, check-out 11:00 am
  • Campground: Check-in 12:00 pm, check-out 11:00 am

Payment Policy:
Cancellation: $25.00 cancellation fee applies. Cancellations made 72 hours before arrival will receive a full refund of deposit minus cancellation fee. Cancellations made inside 72 hours will result in forfeiture of full deposit.
Extra Person Policy: All rates based on double occupancy. Additional person charges apply for extra persons age 6 years and older.

For more information about bringing your pet into the National Parks, please visit the National Park Service Site and view the Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau Dog Friendly Map.

Smoking Policy

All rooms and tours at our facilities are non-smoking.

COVID Updates

Please check for updates related to revised services and policy changes.

Lodging Info & Policies

Check-In: 4:00 pm
Check-Out: 11:00 am

Must be 18 years of age to check-in, and the person checking in must present a valid photo ID and major credit card.

Wilderness Travel

Remember, conditions can change rapidly, especially in backcountry areas. Always check weather reports before your trip, pack the ten essentials, and be prepared for all kinds of weather. Bring plenty of water and pack out all trash. Review the park’s safety tips.

Forest Roads: Contact your local ranger office to inquire about a specific route. Wildlife gates are closed from October 1 until May 1. Forest roads are prone to flooding and washouts. Never attempt to cross road washouts, as you could easily get trapped. Travel with your lights on, obey speed limits, and watch for pedestrians and other vehicles.

Washington Roads: Check the Washington traffic cameras and the Olympic Peninsula Washington roads map for the latest updates.

Firearms

It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering this park. Federal law also prohibits firearms in certain facilities in this park; those places are marked with signs at all public entrances.

Unmanned Aircraft

Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Olympic National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent.

Wilderness Regulations

Regulations specific to Olympic National Park are contained in the Superintendent’s Compendium. Closures not included in these compendiums are listed on the park’s website. This page shows areas closed and uses limited by temporary regulation and does not include closures of facilities and services.

Hunting and Fishing Regulations

Hunting and fishing regulations within Olympic National Forest are under the jurisdiction of Washington State. Please visit the Department of Fish and Wildlife for more information.

Target Shooting

Target shooting on national forest lands is permitted unless a specific area has been closed for public safety. Please ensure that you have a safe backdrop and take safety precautions before you engage in this activity. For information about closures, contact your nearest district office.

Regulations prohibit discharging a firearm:
– In or within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site or occupied area,
– Across or on roads or bodies of water, or where people or property are exposed to injury or damage,
– Into a cave,
– Into areas that cause resource damage. Don’t shoot trees, rocks, stumps, or non-game animals.

Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine or imprisonment. (16 U.S.C. 551, 18 U.S.C. 3559 and 3571). More information about shooting sports: https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/shooting.

Pets in the Olympic National Forest

Pets are allowed in the Olympic National Forest. They must be under control or on a leash. In developed rec areas such as trailheads and campgrounds and busy trails, pets must be on a leash and under control. Saddle, pack, or draft animals are allowed only in authorized areas.

References:
Olympic National Parks Policies and Information
National Park Service – Olympic National Park
National Park Service – Laws and Policies
USDA Forest Service – Olympic National Forest Alerts and Notices
USDA Forest Service – Olympic National Forest Safety and Ethics

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