Mount Rainier National Park has announced two major construction projects for 2025, which will temporarily affect access to parts of the park while addressing critical infrastructure needs. The projects include upgrades to the Ohanapecosh Campground and improvements to a section of State Route 123 along the park’s eastern boundary.
The Ohanapecosh Campground rehabilitation project will involve extensive upgrades, including the renovation of 185 campsites and nine restrooms, replacement of an outdated wastewater system, and improvements to electrical, water, and accessibility features.
The project will require the closure of the campground and associated facilities, including the visitor center, picnic area, and auditorium, for the entire 2025 visitor season.
The campground is scheduled to reopen in 2026 with the renovations complete, per a National Park Service news release. During this period, visitors will still have access to the park’s White River and Cougar Rock campgrounds.
Funding for the campground project comes from multiple sources, including the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA), Recreation Fee revenue, and the National Park Foundation.
The GAOA, passed with bipartisan support, aims to address infrastructure challenges and improve accessibility across public lands managed by federal agencies, including the National Park Service.
The second project involves a two-year rehabilitation of a 2.8-mile stretch of State Route 123, between Laughingwater Creek and Panther Creek. This initiative, funded by the Federal Highways Administration, will include installing two large box culverts to mitigate flood risks and reduce maintenance needs.
Construction in 2025 will take place from April to October, with a complete closure of a portion of the roadway between Stevens Canyon Road and Panther Creek scheduled for September 2–30.
During this closure, no vehicular, pedestrian, or bicycle access will be permitted. In 2026, work will continue without full road closures, although travelers may encounter delays of up to 30 minutes.
Superintendent Greg Dudgeon emphasized the long-term benefits of the projects, stating that while temporary disruptions are expected, these improvements will enhance visitor experiences and protect the park’s resources for years to come.
The park plans to share additional details about the projects on its website in spring 2025. For general information about Mount Rainier National Park, visitors can visit www.nps.gov/mora.
