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Gifford Pinchot/La Wis Wis
Overview
La Wis Wis Campground offers a quintessential Pacific Northwest escape within the lush Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Surrounded by massive, ancient Douglas firs and western red cedars, this destination provides a deep sense of seclusion and natural beauty. It serves as a peaceful retreat for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the forest while staying near the crystal-clear waters of the Cowlitz and Ohanapecosh Rivers. The atmosphere is quiet and serene, preserving the classic spirit of outdoor exploration.
Location & Surroundings
Located just a few miles east of Packwood, WA, the park sits at a strategic junction near the base of Mount Rainier. The geography is defined by its old-growth forest canopy, which provides significant shade and privacy between campsites. Its position near the confluence of two glacial rivers means that many campers are never more than a short walk away from the soothing sounds of rushing water and scenic riverbanks that define the rugged landscape of the Cascade Range.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional Forest Service facility, the amenities focus on a rustic experience rather than modern luxury. The campground features paved interior roads and parking spurs that can accommodate a variety of RV sizes, though there are no utility hookups available. Visitors have access to potable water and flush toilets during the primary camping season. Each individual site is outfitted with a sturdy picnic table and a campfire ring, encouraging a traditional camping lifestyle focused on outdoor cooking and relaxation.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw for many visitors is the immediate access to the Purcell Falls Trail and the popular Blue Hole swimming area, both of which are accessible directly from the campground loops. A short drive north brings travelers to the Stevens Canyon Entrance of Mount Rainier National Park, offering world-class hiking at the Grove of the Patriarchs. Additionally, the nearby town of Packwood provides local dining, supplies, and a glimpse into the mountain culture of the region.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for self-contained RVers who prefer the sights and sounds of nature over the convenience of a commercial resort. It is a fantastic choice for families and photographers who want an authentic dry camping experience in one of Washington's most iconic forest settings. If your travel style involves disconnecting from the digital world to enjoy hiking, fishing, and evening campfires under a dense forest ceiling, La Wis Wis is a perfect match.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Stephanie Koss
This was my first time at this campground. We stayed on a Sunday night the first week of September. Very affordable and rustic. We got a tent site near the stream which I was so pretty. The vault toilets were pretty stinky but I've seen worse. There was no water while we were there, but we knew that ahead of time so we were prepared and had our own.
A
Great campground. Sites aren’t too crammed together which is great they have privacy. There werent too many people when we went so it was peaceful and quiet with not many neighbors around. Bathrooms were pretty smelly when we went but other than that its beautiful
Madison Lambdin
Rooms aka Forrest spaces were good, we had a double site that had some decent privacy and excellent river access. We weren’t bothered much at all; only time we were asked anything was when the rangers came by to make sure it was a propane fire/grill d/t fire bans. And location was excellent. Approx 50-60 min away from both Paradise & Sunrise. People weren’t noisy past 10-11pm really. There wasn’t running water this time, but lots of bathrooms (glorified portajohns) but they were very clean. I would definitely go again. I think we paid $46/n for the double site
Adventurer
This is the most beautiful place! The campsites are a little close together but over all very spacious. Bathrooms were clean and if people would have put toilet seats down it would have probably have no issue with smell. Very much recommend for wistful magical vibes ! :)
Gannon Rodriquez
Not far from Mt Rainier Np, but is right off the Highway. I was still able to hear the highway from my camp site, loop c. The bathrooms were clean, for the most part, during my stay. No cell reception, but that’s kinda the point. Firewood for sale here. No campground map to be found anywhere.
super spreader productions
Don't go. Unless your cool and pick up afterwards.
Jesse Holder
Know this going in, it's car camping, and there are no showers. The sites are large and we'll maintained, the camp hosts are awesome, and the river is amazing. Bring floats, swim gear, and plenty of beer!
Nathan Emerson
Wonderful campsites, not very well marked the further back you go "C Camps" which is were I was at. Rangers were very nice. March-2021
Jonathan Melusky
Some of the bathrooms are perfect and some stink pretty bad. Some areas have many portable honey bucket but other areas have just one toilet. I personally like the zero electric campsites and the pit toilets, but some in our group didn't. The river was too cold to swim in unfortunately... So I would suggest late July or August for swimming. Even though it was 104F, I couldn't stay in the water for longer than 10 seconds. Some people had inner tubes tied together and they tied them to a tree root and that was a smart idea. The beach is almost all blue rocks, but I think the swimming area is called Blue Hole because you turn blue after jumping in the swift ice glacier current. Haha The camp hosts were excellent to talk to and fire pits were good. Some of the campground maps were missing from the bulletin boards. Some of the picnic tables could be sanded down on the top. C 15 site was far from the bathrooms, but some people prefer that so they get more steps on their watch. I will hopefully stay there next August.
Tyler Shellito
We love this campground! Had another wonderful trip and this year the camp hosts Jill and Jack had the spots perfect groomed upon our arrival. In the last ten years it was the cleanest we have ever seen the park. Their hard work showed.