Pet friendly camping near Copalis Crossing offers coastal access through wooded campgrounds where winter temperatures can drop to high 20s overnight. The area sits at sea level along Washington's southwestern coastline, characterized by sandy beaches, coastal dunes, and mixed conifer forests. Camping options range from state parks to private resorts, with most sites accessible year-round despite the region's annual rainfall of 70-80 inches.
What to do
Beach driving: 5-minute drive from Ocean Breeze RV Resort to designated vehicle beach access points. "We drove up the street to the public access area where you can actually drive out into the beach," notes Zach H., who camped there in August.
Clamming: Popular seasonal activity especially at Pacific Beach State Park. Paul W. explains: "We have stayed here a couple of times for getting fresh air (smoke escape) and for great Razor Clam hunting... Oh and possible Green Flash with colorful sunsets."
Blackberry picking: No equipment needed for this summer activity around Hoquiam River RV Park. "If you love blackberries, this is the place for you. The Forest was loaded with delicious plump berries," shares Timothy in his review.
Kite flying: Wind conditions ideal at beaches near Ocean Breeze RV Resort. "When the weather is nice and wind is blowing, the campground comes alive with kites, windsocks and other wind related decorations being flown from most campsites. It's quite the experience," according to Rena L.
What campers like
Riverfront sites: Some campgrounds provide access to Copalis River rather than direct beach access. At The Driftwood RV Resort, Courtney M. notes: "There isn't beach access, but there is access to Copalis River which apparently you can boat/float to the beach. The sunset from the river access was stunning."
Forest camping: Dense tree coverage provides weather protection at Ocean Breeze RV Resort. "It rained while we were there, but it was hardly noticeable with the tree coverage," explains Katrina M., adding that "I dont think there was a bad site."
Privacy between sites: Varied by campground with Ocean Breeze offering exceptional privacy. Zach H. reports: "This campground had some of the most private sites I've ever seen. Rarely can you go to an RV park and not see your neighbors. There are sites in open areas, some cut into the forest, and some completely covered by trees."
Ancient forest features: Unique old-growth remnants preserved at Ocean Breeze. "The forest is thick and ancient. Check out the over 800 year old Sequioa stumps. And the stump carvings in the meadow are so cool!" recommends Cheryl C.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies by carrier across the area. Dawn notes about Pacific Beach State Park: "Cell service is very spotty and campground WiFi is as well." Similarly, at Pacific Dunes Resort, visitors report: "NO Cell reception for T-Mobile or Verizon."
Reservations required: Especially summer months at popular campgrounds. "Reserve several months in advance to get a good spot," advises Rena L. about Pacific Beach State Park, adding that "Summer books up quickly, need to secure 9 months in advance."
Weather unpredictability: Summer not guaranteed warm in coastal locations. Zach H. found at Ocean Breeze: "Weather in this part of WA is notoriously bad. We were there for a week in mid August and the temps barley broke 70 with 2 days of straight rain."
Shower tokens: Coin-operated facilities at Pacific Beach State Park. Dawn explains the system: "Two shower tokens per dollar, each token = 3 minutes."
Tips for camping with families
Sand play areas: Designated spots for children at several campgrounds. Slim L. mentions at Pacific Dunes Resort: "Picnic table and firepit with movable grill on it. Propane grill next to sand play area."
Multiple playgrounds: Recreation facilities at larger resorts. At Ocean Breeze RV Resort, Zach H. appreciates: "Several playgrounds, a large pool, and other facilities that were all open."
Weekend activities: Scheduled events during peak season in nearby communities. Angel R. recommends: "Great shops good food in town many different activities going on most weekends throughout the summer" near Ocean Breeze.
Short beach trails: Accessible paths for children to reach ocean. At Screamin' Eagle Campground, Nicola M. found: "Just a five minute walk from the beach."
Tips from RVers
Limited sewer hookups: Plan accordingly at some campgrounds. Zach H. was surprised at Ocean Breeze: "No sewer hookups! In a 300+ site campground I was shocked to learn they had no option for sewer. They have 6 dump stations in 2 locations instead."
Electrical capacity issues: Monitor usage during peak times. Karin A. encountered problems at Screamin' Eagle: "Our only issue was with the electricity grid. Our circuit breaker kept tripping during peak times and interrupted our ability to run the coffee pot."
Site selection matters: Large variations in site size and privacy. Laurie W. notes about Grayland Beach State Park: "Large, paved, level, private campsites. Walk through the dunes to the beach to put your feet in the ocean."
Weekend availability challenges: State parks fill first during summer months. "If you need a place to stay because it's the weekend and the state parks are booked, you will find one here," recommends Laurie W. about Pacific Dunes Resort.