Beaver Bay Campground

If you’re thinking of visiting the pristine wilderness of Washington State, the emerald waters of Yale Lake and the surrounding St. Helens wilderness area will surpass your expectations. Beaver Bay Campground is a 65 site recreation area located along Yale Lake, in Cougar, WA. The campground consists of standard amenities including running water, showers, a boat launch, roped off swimming beach, and fire pits. There is also a day-use picnic area for those wanting to recreate here. While there are no RV hookups, there is a vehicle dump station for those who need it. Crowds can get tough here as this is one of the most popular campgrounds on Yale Lake. Subsequently, getting a good campsite can often require going during the off season (Spring/Fall) when crowds are not as common. Otherwise, smaller campsites can get cramped.

Thankfully, you don’t need to hide out in your tent as local activities are plentiful. To start, just 15 minutes North-East, the “Ape Caves” of Mount St. Helens provide visitors a completely unique opportunity to tour the volcanic tunnels left behind by the infamous volcanic eruption of 1980. In addition, those willing to drive can travel through I-5N, east on HWY 504, to check out the Mount St. Helens visitor center. If you’re really adventurous, check out the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument for amazing insight into to eruption, and panoramic views of the dome.

On the lake itself, most forms of boating are common, as well as water skiing and wakeboarding during morning hours. Additionally, the lake is also a premier fishing spot known for its abundance of Kokanee and Cutthroat Coastal Trout. You’ll need a fishing license, which can be purchased on the way in the town of Woodland.

If you have an interest in beautiful scenery, you’re going to feel right at home here. If your thing is fishing and boating, you’re still in luck! Whatever your intentions, Beaver Bay is a great option for those looking for a place to stay and recreate among Washington’s wild terrain.