By Christi Baron

Forum Editor

Under Canvas proposes high-end seasonal campground; hopes to open by 2027

At the invitation of Clallam County District 3 Commissioner Mike French, Reed Baskin, Director of Entitlements for Under Canvas, spoke last Wednesday at the West End Business and Professional Association (WEBPA) meeting to share plans for a new “glamping” development near Sol Duc Hot Springs.

Baskin, who spent several days in the area, outlined the early stages of the project, which would bring a high-end style of luxury camping to 160 acres recently purchased from Merrill and Ring along U.S. Forest Service Road 2918. The property is not visible from Highway 101, and about 30 acres will be removed from commercial forest designation to accommodate the development, with the rest remaining as working forest.

“This is a fantastic property for what we want to do,” said Baskin. “It took us years to find the right place, and now that we have, I want to learn from the locals as we move forward.”

Under Canvas operates 14 luxury campgrounds across seven states, all near national parks. This new West End location would consist of 78 upscale tent units with seasonal operation from, tentativley, May to October, and is affiliated with Hyatt’s loyalty points program—though not owned by Hyatt.

Baskin said the project is in the early permitting stages, with water and septic approvals required at the state level. The plan is to have infrastructure, including power, installed by summer 2026, followed by the buildout of raised tent decks, support buildings, and an onsite commercial kitchen. No outside food will be allowed in tents, and food service will be available exclusively for guests. Guests will check in, park, and then either walk or use electric golf carts to access their sites.

The project is expected to employ around 90 seasonal workers. Some WEBPA members raised concerns about available housing for workers, noting that little new housing has been built in the area in recent years. Other questions focused on the narrow, partially county-owned access road, which includes a known slide area, and the potential need for drilling a well.

Baskin acknowledged the challenges and emphasized his desire to work collaboratively with the community: “I will need your knowledge and help as this process goes forward.”

During the off-season, all tents will be removed and stored, with a site manager likely living in Forks to monitor the property. To minimize wildfire risk, propane fire pits will be used instead of wood-burning fires.

Commissioner French confirmed that state agencies will handle the water and septic permitting. If all goes as planned, the site could welcome its first guests in 2027.