Best Campgrounds near Cathlamet, WA
Situated along the Columbia River in southwestern Washington, Cathlamet offers several riverside camping options with views of passing ships and access to water recreation. Elochoman Marina provides year-round camping with full hookup sites for RVs and tent spaces right on the Columbia River. County Line Park, located eight miles east of Cathlamet, features wide sites with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits. Just a short drive away, Skamokawa Vista Park offers a well-maintained county campground with riverfront sites and spaces tucked back in the trees, operating from May through mid-September. These established campgrounds primarily cater to RV travelers and tent campers seeking developed facilities, though some offer cabins and yurts for those wanting more comfort.
Reservations are recommended for most campgrounds in the area, especially during summer months when river recreation peaks. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities, though visitors should prepare for the Pacific Northwest's characteristic wet conditions. As one camper noted, "We had the campground to ourselves this wet January. Got a few sun breaks and dry hours to walk to central Skamokawa." The Columbia River creates a natural boundary between Washington and Oregon, with additional camping options available across the river in places like Fort Stevens State Park and Astoria. Most campgrounds provide water and electric hookups, with dump stations available for RVs. Cell service is generally reliable near established campgrounds, though coverage may vary in more remote areas.
Riverside camping dominates the experience around Cathlamet, with many sites offering direct views of the Columbia River and its maritime traffic. "All it took was the Marine Traffic app and watching the ships glide by to keep us entertained," reported one visitor to Skamokawa Vista Park. Clean facilities are consistently mentioned in reviews, with Alan K. noting County Line Park has "clean restrooms and shower" facilities. Water recreation opportunities abound, with campers bringing kayaks to "float the neighboring tributary stream" as mentioned by Angela S. The proximity to town allows for easy supply runs, with Cathlamet offering basic necessities. Wildlife viewing opportunities include eagles and waterfowl along the river, while hiking trails in the surrounding areas provide additional recreation options during drier weather.
