Camping near Long Beach, Washington offers access to the 28-mile peninsula known for having the longest continuous beach in the USA. Winter temperatures typically range from 36-48°F with frequent rainfall, while summer brings milder 50-70°F temperatures and less precipitation. Cell reception varies significantly between established and dispersed camping areas, with stronger signals near town and spotty coverage in more remote locations.
What to do
Beach exploration and activities: The Long Beach Peninsula provides extensive beachcombing opportunities and seasonal activities. At Fort Stevens State Park, "Visiting the Iredale shipwreck especially at sunset is beautiful. Also visiting the forts and cannons are fun. Bring mosquito repellent!" according to Gail S.
Lighthouse visits: The area features multiple historic lighthouses within short driving distance. At Cape Disappointment State Park, a visitor noted "There are lots of places to explore, a decomposing whale on the beach (stay upwind!), a nice lighthouse (under construction when I visited) and very close to Long Beach."
Trail systems: Several campgrounds connect directly to extensive trail networks. At The Lamp Camp, a camper shared, "Easy walk to the beach. We had a great time at the Lamp Camp in one of the tent spots. Even those have a shower and restroom with hot water nearby and fire pits in each space."
What campers like
Private spots despite crowds: Many campgrounds manage to maintain privacy even during busy seasons. One camper at Cape Disappointment State Park mentioned, "The campground was packed but our site was still very private, small and cozy. Easy walk to the beach and great ocean views."
Convenient town access: Several campgrounds offer easy access to nearby towns. A visitor at Fort Stevens State Park shared, "You're close to Astoria, Gearhart, Cannon Beach and Portland is only an hour and a half away."
Year-round camping options: The region supports camping throughout all seasons. A camper noted, "It's very beautiful no matter what time you go!! We camp year around!!!" This flexibility allows visitors to experience different seasonal conditions and activities.
What you should know
Variable site quality: Campground layouts and site conditions vary widely. At Thousand Trails Long Beach, one camper advised, "The spaces are very tight at 90 degree angles to the road. This requires backing skill level 10! The north side and middle give little room for it, and the south side has an area that at least gives some wiggle room."
Insect conditions: Mosquitoes can be intense in certain areas during summer months. A camper at Fort Stevens State Park warned, "Unfortunately in May, the mosquitoes were out in full force in the campground."
Wind exposure: Coastal winds can affect camping comfort, particularly for pets. A reviewer observed, "Keep in mind that the beach is VERY windy and my mutt was fine walking downwind, but when we turned around she was very unhappy being very low to the ground with sand blowing in her face."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer amenities specifically for children. At Astoria-Warrenton-Seaside KOA, a visitor mentioned, "A very busy campground with lots of things to keep you occupied and make the weekend go by way to quick."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences for children. A camper at Fort Stevens State Park shared, "We brought the kids and expected to listen to their complaints the whole time, but they were intrigued by everything!"
Safe beach access: Look for campgrounds with controlled beach access paths. A visitor noted, "Once on the beach, there is a big sign with a giant A so you can find your way back should you go for a walk. There are two lighthouses in the park, trails, jetty, and an interperative center."
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Pay attention to hookup locations when selecting sites. At Pacific Holiday RV Resort, a reviewer explained, "The odd numbered spots all have the sewer on the wrong side requiring a very long sewer hose extension that the hardware store nearby does have."
Accessibility concerns: Road conditions vary between campgrounds. For dispersed camping at Road to Snag Lake, a camper advised, "The road getting here is a bit rough with lots of washboard, steep grades and rocks. But it's fun. No amenities, obviously, but there is a concrete pad from an old structure you can park on."
Seasonal variations: Experience differs dramatically by season. A camper commented, "With taxes and all we paid about $50 for a night for that site. We didn't have reservations and there was plenty of availability." This contrasts with summer months when reservations are essential.
