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Lake Cushman Area
This area gets its namesake from the stunning Lake Cushman Reservoir, a popular destination for its clear waters and lush forested shoreline. Extremely popular for swimming, fishing, boating and picnicking during sunny weekends, this area also provides ample opportunities to climb steep trails reaching rocky alpine peaks within the Mount Skokomish Wilderness. Camp in the family friendly Big Creek Campground or use one of the many day-use sites surrounding the lake.
The northern end of the Lake Cushman Corridor (FS-24) is the gateway to the Staircase entrance of Olympic National Park.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
The possession of alcohol is prohibited along the Lake Cushman Corridor (FS-24 and FS-2451).
Visitors should be aware that this area receives extremely high, weather dependent visitation. If visiting the Lake Cushman area be prepared for heavy traffic with no opportunities for turnarounds until reaching the Staircase entrance of Olympic National Park. Parking is only allowed in designated areas. If no parking options are available be prepared with an alternative plan to visit another area.
When recreating along the Lake Cushman Corridor be considerate of other users and be a steward public lands. This includes removing any personal trash or debris to leave the area clean and ready for other visitors to enjoy. Learn more about leave no trace principles to help protect the invaluable beauty of these places and other natural resources.
The following are currently prohibited along the Lake Cushman Corridor (FS-24 and FS-2451):
- alcohol
- overnight parking
- camping
- fires
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | This area receives extremely high, weather dependent visitation. Be prepared for heavy traffic and limited parking. No alcohol, camping, overnight parking, or fires. |
|---|---|
| Usage: | Heavy |
| Closest Towns: | Hoodsport, WA |
| Information Center: | Hood Canal Ranger District- Quilcene office |
General Information
Parking:Parking is very limited along the narrow road and only available in designated areas. Be prepared for heavy use and traffic. If there are no parking options available be prepared to visit another area of the national forest or other nearby public lands.
Directions:
From Olympia, WA from I-5, follow US Highway 101 North for 35 miles to Hoodsport. Take WA 119 (NF-24) North for 12.5 miles until you reach Lake Cushman. ~ 50 minute drive time.
From Quilcene, WA take US Highway 101 South for 27 miles. Head West onto North Jorstad Creek Road, continue onto Forest Road 24 for 8.3 miles, continue onto WA-119 (NF-24) North for 2 miles until you reach Lake Cushman. ~ 65 minute drive time.
Hoodsport; Mt. Washington; Lightning Peak; Mt. Skokomish.
Activities
Campground Camping
Areas for Campground Camping at Lake Cushman Area
RV Camping
Areas for RV Camping at Lake Cushman Area
Lake and Pond Fishing
Areas for Lake and Pond Fishing at Lake Cushman Area
River and Stream Fishing
Areas for River and Stream Fishing at Lake Cushman Area
Day Hiking
Areas for Day Hiking at Lake Cushman Area
- Big Creek Campground Trail #827
- Big Creek Trailhead
- Big Creek Upper Loop #827.1
- Copper Creek Trail #876
- Copper Creek Trailhead
- Dry Creek East Trailhead
- Dry Creek Trail #872
- Jefferson Pass Trail #800
- Jefferson Pass Trailhead
- Mount Skokomish Wilderness
- Mt. Ellinor Connector Trail #827.2
- Mt. Ellinor Lower Trailhead
- Mt. Ellinor Trail #812
- Mt. Ellinor Upper Trailhead
- Mt. Rose Trail #814
- Mt. Rose Trailhead
Backpacking
Areas for Backpacking at Lake Cushman Area
Viewing Scenery
Areas for Viewing Scenery at Lake Cushman Area