Camping options near Chinook, Washington range from RV resorts with full amenities to primitive dispersed sites in forested areas. The region sits at the confluence of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean, creating a coastal microclimate with summer highs rarely exceeding 70°F. Winter camping requires preparation for significant rainfall, with December averaging 11 inches of precipitation in this area.
What to do
Beach exploration: At Cape Disappointment State Park, visitors can walk to multiple beaches and explore historical features. "Walk to the beach to find treasures and sit to relax and just watch the waves. Very peaceful, and my teens loved it," shares Kimberly T. The park includes two lighthouses and miles of forest trails.
Historical sites: Fort Stevens State Park offers military history exploration within walking distance of camp. "We brought the kids and expected to listen to their complaints the whole time, but they were intrigued by everything," notes Cadie H. The park contains military installations spanning multiple wars and interpretive displays.
Fishing and clamming: Local campgrounds cater to seafood enthusiasts with specialized facilities. "Clean with a large variety of camping options. They have a wonderful cleaning station, clean hot showers and RV and tent sites," reports Ashley W. about Kampers West RV Park, which includes facilities specifically for cleaning clams, crabs, and fish.
What campers like
Privacy despite crowds: Many campgrounds maintain natural separation between sites. "The campground was packed but our site was still very private, small and cozy. Easy walk to the beach and great ocean views," explains D B. about Cape Disappointment. Wind from the ocean often buffers noise from neighboring campsites.
Off-season availability: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides better access to popular campgrounds. "We didn't have a reservation for the campground the afternoon we decided to stop in July. To reserve a yurt typically requires a minimum of two nights. We were fortunate to get a yurt (number 7) for one night in July as a walk in," shares MomSolo about Fort Stevens State Park.
Views and positioning: The Lamp Camp offers strategic beach access with comfortable amenities. "The owners were so fun to meet, bathrooms were incredibly clean with HOT water, and the location can't be beat. I highly recommend grabbing the sites closest to the ocean if you can so you hear the waves as you drift off," recommends Tiffany B.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Thousand Trails Long Beach, site numbers indicate utility placement. "Odd numbers site have hook ups on the right, even have hook ups on the left (drivers side)," advises Jamie R., which can save RVers from needing extension hoses.
Mosquito presence: Multiple campgrounds report significant mosquito activity, particularly in summer months. "This place was nice and quite convenient. In May, the mosquitos were out in full force in the campground," notes Gary M. about Fort Stevens State Park.
Dispersed options: For those seeking solitude, free camping exists but requires preparation. "Very quiet. Spots for van or tent are between radio/cell towers, so doesn't feel like wilderness but there is the potential for spectacular views if the clouds clear," explains Anna P. about Road to Snag Lake. A Discovery Pass is required for these sites.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple accommodation options: Many parks offer alternatives to traditional tent camping. "We just got back from our week long camping trip and like always it was fun. So much for kids to do from exploring, riding bikes, fishing and going to the amphitheater for some stories," shares Jenny M. about Fort Stevens, which offers cabins and yurts when weather turns challenging.
Indoor activity backups: Astoria-Warrenton-Seaside KOA provides weather-proof recreation. "This is a great KOA...probably the best I've been to. It's very big with a lot of activity options including an indoor pool, playground and trails," says Alicia F., highlighting features that keep children entertained during rainy days.
Beach access challenges: Consider the trek to beaches when packing gear. "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," notes Christina F. about Cape Disappointment State Park, where beach access requires short hikes that might challenge younger children carrying equipment.
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing: Popular RV campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. "Check in. The later you come the more likely you'll get the last space available," advises Derek & Alex W. about Thousand Trails Long Beach, suggesting early arrival times on check-in day.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. "Site is up a decently maintained but long and steep gravel road, doable in a Prius but she was panting by the end," notes Anna P. about Road to Snag Lake, indicating potential challenges for larger vehicles on forest service roads.
Hookup logistics: Check utility placement before selecting sites. "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," explains Derek & Alex W., pointing out the importance of preparedness or having extension equipment.
