Cabins near Chinook, Washington range from basic rustic accommodations to fully-equipped lodging options with varying levels of amenities. Located where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, this coastal region experiences mild temperatures year-round with average summer highs around 70°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 40°F. Winter visitors should prepare for significant rainfall, with November through January averaging 10-12 inches of precipitation monthly.
What to do
Beach exploration: Fort Stevens State Park Campground offers direct access to miles of sandy shoreline. "Walk to the beach to find treasures and sit to relax and just watch the waves. Very peaceful, and my teens loved it!" notes a visitor to Cape Disappointment State Park Campground.
Historical sites: The area features multiple military installations and lighthouses. "Interesting history abounds, from old forts, to the dangers (still present) of navigation at the mouth of the Columbia River. Great maritime museum in nearby Astoria," reports a camper who stayed at Fort Stevens State Park Campground.
Seafood harvesting: Many cabins serve as ideal base camps for fishing and clamming. "If you're planning to fish, crab, or dig clams at the coast this is the best place! They have a wonderful cleaning station, clean hot showers and RV and tent sites as well as a few small cabins," shares a guest of Kampers West RV Park.
Kite flying: The region's consistent coastal winds make it perfect for kite enthusiasts. "The beach hosts kite flying and sand castle building contests. The town is open and friendly," mentions someone who stayed at Thousand Trails Long Beach.
What campers like
Heated facilities: During winter months, heated cabins provide essential comfort. "The sites were nice and clean even in torrential down pouring rain and wind," reports a visitor to Astoria-Warrenton-Seaside KOA.
Easy beach access: Many visitors appreciate accommodations with short walks to the ocean. "Suddenly you climb a small incline and there's the Pacific in all its glory," describes a camper from Pacific Holiday RV Resort. "Campground not right on beach but close enough to ride bike or drive," notes another visitor about nearby options.
Well-maintained camp amenities: Clean facilities rank high on camper preferences. "The bathhouse is within walking distance but showed full quickly in the morning," advises a guest at Kampers West RV Park, while another mentions, "The bathrooms and showers were very well maintained and clean. There is a path to the beach and only 10 minute drive to Astoria."
Variety of accommodation types: Options range from basic to deluxe. "The cabin was basic but comfortable for the night. It had a full bed and bunk bed, table, chair and heater," reports a camper at Kampers West RV Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak season. "We were fortunate to get a yurt (number 7) for one night in July as a walk in. The ranger was shocked as they are usually sold out months in advance," shares a visitor to Fort Stevens State Park.
Site variation: Cabin quality and privacy differ significantly between locations. "We got lucky and parked at the end by the dog park in an odd spot. The gentleman behind us was in an even spot and had us pull into it when he left the following morning," explains a camper at Thousand Trails Long Beach.
Weather considerations: Coastal conditions can change rapidly. "I recommended being prepared for any type of weather rain or shine," advises a Fort Stevens visitor, while another notes, "We come down here to get away from the heat, inland area. It's usually 20-30 degrees cooler, than inland."
Mosquito presence: Several areas report significant insect activity. "The mosquitoes were out in full force in the campground," warns one camper, while another mentions, "If you want to get to the beach, it is down a path with some of the worst mosquitoes we have ever seen."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several facilities offer activities specifically for children. "We brought the kids and expected to listen to their complaints the whole time, but they were intrigued by everything!" shares a visitor about Camp Rilea Military Campground.
Swimming options: Indoor pools provide recreation regardless of weather. "We are enjoying a free year of Thousand Trails membership and this was another last min stay, it was packed! But it's the middle of summer, and we were able to find a spot in overflow same day," notes a visitor to Thousand Trails Seaside.
Bicycle-friendly paths: Many campgrounds feature paved routes suitable for children. "Large paved loop the kids ride their bike on, direct access to the beach, and a pool!" enthuses a camper at Pacific Holiday RV Resort.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. "We just got back from our week long camping trip and like always it was fun. We have been there multiple times, it's one of my favorites. So much for kids to do from exploring, riding bikes, fishing and going to the amphitheater for some stories," shares a Fort Stevens State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Full hookup availability varies between locations. "Odd numbers site have hook ups on the right, even have hook ups on the left (drivers side)," advises a camper at Long Beach RV Resort.
Camp store access: Some facilities offer on-site provisions. "They even have a little camp store where we bought flour and seasonings to fry our clams at camp!" reports a Kampers West visitor.
Cell service: Reception can be inconsistent throughout the area. "I got zero reception in the campground. I use Verizon," notes a Cape Disappointment camper.
Parking considerations: Space limitations affect larger rigs. "The sites are set up so that only the EVEN number sites have hookups on the drivers side. Otherwise, you need extensions for you electric, stinky slinky, and water," advises a visitor to Lewis & Clark Golf & RV Park.
