Two Campgrounds in Capitol State Forest Will Remain Closed for Summer 2026

Margaret McKenny and Middle Waddell Campgrounds and Day Use Areas will not open for the Summer 2026 season due to public safety risks from hazard trees.

Two popular campgrounds and day use areas managed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will not reopen for the Summer 2026 season due to hazard trees in the area.

Margaret McKenny and Middle Waddell Campgrounds and Day Use Areas are in Capitol State Forest in Thurston County, near Olympia, Washington and are popular recreation sites for hikers, campers, equestrians, and motorized use. Both sites typically open for the season on May 1. Middle Waddell contains 33 campsites, and Margaret McKenny includes 20 sites. Day Use areas and trailheads located at both campgrounds will also be closed for the time being.

While doing routine inspections of the area, DNR staff determined that a significant number of trees in the area were infected with laminated root rot. The trees pose a public safety risk and are hazardous. To effectively remove the trees, the areas must remain closed for hazard tree mitigation.

DNR advises recreators to seek other opportunities in the area, and to avoid areas closed due to safety hazards. Dispersed camping is not permitted in Capitol State Forest. DNR's website will be updated as work progresses, and following reopening of the sites: https://dnr.wa.gov/forest-and-trust-lands/capitol-state-forest

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