News Release

Inclement Weather Causes Closures at Olympic National Park

High surf can cause dangerous conditions along the Olympic Coast.

NPS Photo

News Release Date: January 11, 2023

Contact: Olympic National Park Public Affairs Office

PORT ANGELES, Wash. – On Thursday, January 12, 2023, campgrounds and roads in the western part of Olympic National Park will be closed due to incoming inclement weather. According to reports from the National Weather Service, storm activity in Western Washington and along the Olympic Coast will increase on Thursday and is likely to continue through Sunday, January 15.

Campground Closures

The following campgrounds will be closed beginning on January 12. They are expected to reopen once park staff determine that conditions are safe for visitor use.
 

• Quinault Campground
• Queets Campground
• Kalaloch Campground
• Mora Campground

Visitors currently camped at these locations will be offered available space at alternative park campgrounds that remain open.

Road Closures

The following roads will be closed beginning on January 12 due to potential flooding or high winds, which may bring trees down in these areas. They are expected to reopen once park staff determine that conditions are safe for visitor use.
 

• Upper and Lower Queets Roads
• Graves Creek Road
• North Fork Quinault Road
• Mora Road beyond the Mora Ranger Station

Weather forecasts indicate that on Thursday, January 12, coastal areas will experience high surf, creating dangerous swimming and surfing conditions. Other areas of Western Washington may experience river flooding. Gusty winds and rain will make their way through lowland and coastal areas.

Visitors are advised to use caution when visiting coastal areas and other areas of the national park from January 12 to 15. Visitors should monitor weather reports and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Additional closures may occur due to changing weather conditions or emergencies. For more information on visiting the park and current conditions, visit www.nps.gov/olym or call [phone].