Mount Rainier National Park has announced two major construction projects set to begin in 2025, replacing decades-old infrastructure in the Ohanapecosh Campground and improving travel throughout the park along State Route 123. Though the construction is necessary to address major deficiencies, the park is making it clear that the work will cause temporary roadway and/or facilities closures.
Work on the Ohanapecosh Campground includes the rehabilitation of the area’s 185 campsites and nine bathrooms, in addition to the replacement of the wastewater collection system, the upgrade of electrical and water systems, and improvements to campground accessibility. It will be completed during the 2025 visitor season, meaning the campground and all associated structures (visitor center, bathrooms, picnic area, and auditorium) will be closed throughout construction. Plans currently have the campground reopening for the 2026 visitor season.
On State Route 123, two years of construction will rehabilitate a 2.8-mile section of roadway between Laughingwater Creek and Panther Creek. In the first year of construction the entire 2.8-mile section will be closed from April-October 2025, with visitors experiencing delays up to 30 minutes. During the second, 2026 construction season there will be no full closures along the roadway, though visitors can still expect delays of up to 30 minutes.
Work on the Ohanapecosh Campground is partly funded through the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA), Recreation Fee revenue and the National Park Foundation, while the State Route 123 project is funded through the Federal Highways Administration.
“We are grateful to have the opportunity to make much-needed improvements to the Ohanapecosh Campground and State Route 123. There will be some temporary inconveniences next year, but we know that this critical investment in our facilities will help ensure recreational opportunities for visitors for decades to come.” – Superintendent Greg Dudgeon.