Quilcene Campground

## Overview Quilcene Campground is a public drinking water spring located in the northeastern corner of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, near the small town of Quilcene in Jefferson County. Situated at approximately 47.82°N, 122.88°W, this spring sits within the lush, temperate rainforest landscape that characterizes the eastern foothills of the Olympic Mountains. The Quilcene area has long been associated with abundant freshwater resources fed by snowmelt and rainfall draining from the Olympic range. The name "Quilcene" is derived from the Twana (Skokomish) word for the native people who historically inhabited the region around Quilcene Bay and the surrounding river valleys. Natural springs in this area have historically been used as drinking water sources by both indigenous communities and early settlers drawn to the region's timber and fishing industries. The spring at Quilcene Campground has been reported to serve as a public drinking water source, though visitors should be aware that natural spring water quality can vary with seasonal conditions and should exercise their own discretion. ## Directions 1. From the town of Quilcene, Washington, head south on US Route 101. 2. Watch for signs indicating Quilcene Campground or the surrounding national forest recreation areas. 3. The spring is located at GPS coordinates **47.8216, -122.8801**. Using a GPS device or smartphone navigation app with these coordinates is recommended, as signage in the area can be limited. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on the GPS coordinates provided. Visitors are encouraged to check with the local ranger district or Jefferson County resources for the most current access information, especially during winter months when forest roads may be subject to closures.* ## What to Expect Quilcene Campground is set amid the dense coniferous forests typical of the Olympic Peninsula's eastern slopes — expect towering Douglas fir, western red cedar, and bigleaf maple draped in moss. The surrounding landscape is green and lush for much of the year, with rainfall heaviest from late fall through early spring. The spring provides a public drinking water access point within the campground area. Water flow from springs in this region tends to be strongest during the wetter months (October through May) and may diminish somewhat during the drier summer season. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source, though no current water quality testing data is available for this listing. The area around Quilcene offers excellent opportunities for hiking, with trails leading into the Buckhorn Wilderness and Olympic National Forest. The nearby Quilcene River is known for seasonal salmon and steelhead runs, adding to the area's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors should be prepared for variable weather conditions year-round and bring appropriate rain gear, especially outside of summer months.