Potential Locations Current Trip Camping	The South Fork of the Skokomish River offers quite a few good spots along the river. There is a large park-like area with a nice little beach that is designated as day use only. However, choice camping spots exist nearby (within walking distance). Hood Canal is about a half hour away which has saltwater fishing and shellfishing. Numerous hikes can be found in the area as well. The Oxbow camping area is very crowded, so crowded in fact it is reminiscent of a state park. However, at least there is some semblance of order at a state park, which tends to keep the ruffians away. Instead, they all come here. Security is a serious issue so never leave valuables unattended, even for a short period of time. In addition to the security concerns, the area tends to get trashed. This is such a problem that the Olympic National Forest is considering gating the area and closing it to public access. It is a shame that people have such little regard, not only for their surroundings but also for the ability of others to enjoy the area. Due to the heavy crowds, fishing is almost nonexistent in the river. And the lack of security makes fishing at other locations unlikely. I would highly recommend camping elsewhere. There is simply too much beautiful camping in the state of Washington to subject yourself to the nonsense you will find here. Rating: Directions to the South Fork of the Skokomish River Take I-5 south to Olympia. Take exit 104 which goes to Aberdeen and Port Angeles. Just out of Olympia, there will be an exit to Highway 101 which leads to Port Angeles. Take this exit. Head north on 101 past Shelton and several miles past Sanderson Field. Look for signs pointing to a hatchery. Make a left onto the Skokomish Valley Road which leads to the hatchery. Follow this road along the Skokomish River for about 5 1/2 miles at which point you will see a sign to Browns Creek and the road veers to the right. You will now be on Forest Road 23. You will pass by an incredible view on your right hand side. Follow this road past a Simpson Timber Company tree farm. Up the road a little farther, you will encounter a sign telling you that you are entering the Olympic National Forest. About 5 miles past the National Forest sign, you will see a large brown message board. Take a right hand turn and go down the road. Follow this road for a mile or two and take the first right turn you find Location Information Elevation: 400-800 ft. Waypoint: N47.40796 W123.31275 Map Source: Map
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