Prancing Unicorn

Prancing Unicorn Resort and Recreation, often referred to as PURR, is an exceptional and distinctive destination within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category, located in Shelton, Washington, at the very doorstep of the picturesque Olympic Peninsula. Unlike conventional, manicured camping resorts, PURR offers an eclectic, boutique, and private campground experience that caters to a diverse range of visitors, from traditional campers and RV enthusiasts to a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and creatives. It's a place where the concept of a campground expands to encompass an art collective, a makerspace, and an event venue, creating a truly unique outdoor escape.

The environment at Prancing Unicorn is described as an "eclectic" and "funky" space, embracing an artistic and somewhat unconventional aesthetic. Situated on approximately 6 to 11 acres (sources vary slightly on the exact acreage), the property offers a blend of open fields and areas with large trees and bushes, providing varying degrees of shade and privacy for campsites. While it may not fit the mold of a "traditional manicured country club campground," its charm lies in its ongoing art projects, repurposed materials, and a generally laid-back, creative atmosphere. Some areas might be perceived as a "junkyard" due to collected materials for repurposing, and some art displayed may challenge conventional sensibilities. However, for those who approach it with an open mind, seeking a safe and private rest stop in an art festival setting, surrounded by the sounds of birds and wildlife, the environment is welcoming and enjoyable. The proximity to the Olympic Peninsula means visitors are within easy reach of the region's natural beauty, including national parks, coastal areas, and forests, though the immediate campground environment is more focused on its unique cultural offerings rather than direct wilderness access for activities like extensive hiking trails within the campground itself.

The services at Prancing Unicorn are multifaceted, extending far beyond typical campground offerings. As a "Campgrounds & RV Parks" provider, PURR accommodates various camping styles, including:

• Daily Open Camping: Available for tents and vehicles less than 25 feet, typically at a member rate.

• RV Camping: Designed for RVs longer than 25 feet, also with a specific member rate. Campsites are equipped with water and electric hookups (15 & 30 amps), and some information suggests 50 amp hookups are also available, along with sewer hookups and a dump station, providing full hookup options for RVs.

• Long Term Residential Camping: This unique service offers year-round accommodations for members, reflecting PURR's community-focused approach and catering to the vanlife and mobile living community as a home base for travelers in the Pacific Northwest.

• Festival Camping: Available for multi-day events, with options for organizers to reserve the entire campground.

The features that distinguish Prancing Unicorn within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category are its strong emphasis on creativity, community, and an unconventional, welcoming atmosphere. Key features include:

• Eclectic Environment: The campground's "funky and interesting" aesthetic, with ongoing art projects and repurposed materials, offers a unique visual and experiential backdrop not found in traditional campgrounds.

• Community Focus: PURR actively fosters a diverse community, valuing creativity and participation. It serves as a sanctuary for the vanlife and mobile living community, providing a space to stop, shower, do maintenance on rigs, connect with others, and recharge.

• Art and Music Integration: The presence of event venues, stages, and makerspaces highlights its role as a hub for art and music festivals, workshops, and creative expression.

• Amenities: Campers can expect clean, though potentially aging, bathrooms and outdoor showers. Water access is available at campsites. Fire pits are present at each designated site, with campfires permitted in these pits. Free WiFi is a stated amenity, which is a significant convenience for modern campers.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome, though it is always advisable to check for any specific rules or restrictions.

Promotional information and general guidelines for Prancing Unicorn emphasize its unique character and membership model. While daily camping rates are available, membership is a core component of the PURR experience. A monthly or annual membership fee grants access to open camping at reduced rates, access to the makerspace, and all resort amenities. A "work-trade program" is also offered, allowing members to put in a few hours of work per day in exchange for free camping, which can include cleaning, yard maintenance, assisting with construction, or helping with event production. This program further reinforces the community-driven ethos of PURR. Standard campground rules include a 5 mph speed limit, quiet hours from 11:00 PM to 8:00 AM (with no loud amplified music, yelling, or excessive dog barking), and a "leave no trace" policy for trash, with a small fee if the campground's dumpster is used. Campfires are permitted only in designated metal fire pits. Fireworks and firearms are prohibited on the property. Check-in is typically at 1:00 PM PST and check-out at 11:00 AM PST. Cancellations require at least five days' notice for a refund (minus a service charge), with no refunds for cancellations within four days or for no-shows. Prospective visitors are encouraged to visit the Prancing Unicorn website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date pricing, availability, and specific event schedules, as this is an evolving and activity-rich environment.

In summary, Prancing Unicorn Resort and Recreation redefines the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category by merging traditional camping with a vibrant artistic and communal hub. Its environment, services, and features are tailored for those who appreciate an unconventional, creatively stimulating, and community-oriented outdoor experience on the threshold of the Olympic Peninsula. It's not just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent; it's an invitation to engage, create, and connect in a truly one-of-a-kind setting.