Best Campgrounds near Astoria, OR
The northwestern Oregon coast around Astoria features diverse camping options where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. Fort Stevens State Park, one of Oregon's largest state park campgrounds with nearly 500 sites, offers full hookups, cabins, and yurts just 20 minutes west of downtown Astoria. Across the Columbia River in Washington, Cape Disappointment State Park provides similar amenities with lighthouse views and beach access. Private options include the Astoria-Warrenton-Seaside KOA in Hammond and several RV parks with Columbia River views. For those seeking more seclusion, Clatsop State Forest's Gnat Creek Campground offers primitive tent camping, while limited dispersed camping can be found in surrounding national forest lands.
Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer bringing mild temperatures and lower precipitation, while winter months experience heavy rainfall and occasional storms. Most established campgrounds remain open year-round, though some facilities may be limited during off-season. Reservations are essential during summer months, particularly at Fort Stevens where sites can book up to 6 months in advance. As one camper noted, "I went in April and there were a bunch of open camp spots to choose from but I imagine it fills up in the summer months!" Mosquitoes can be problematic in forested areas during summer, with one reviewer warning to "bring lots of bug spray" when visiting Fort Stevens.
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region, with elk sightings common near campgrounds. The historic attractions receive consistently positive reviews, with the Peter Iredale shipwreck at Fort Stevens being a particular highlight. Many campers appreciate the proximity to town amenities while still enjoying natural surroundings. "This place is a great escape but still so close to the town of Astoria," noted one Fort Stevens visitor. Site spacing varies considerably between campgrounds, with some reviewers mentioning that sites at popular parks can feel crowded during peak season. Off-season camping provides more solitude, with one camper sharing, "We came during offseason and it was super quiet and empty so we felt like we had the entire park to ourselves."