Glamping options in Grays River, Washington provide access to the diverse ecosystems of the lower Columbia River region. The area sits at a relatively low elevation of 36 feet above sea level, creating a temperate climate with abundant rainfall of approximately 70 inches annually. Weather patterns can change quickly in this coastal area, with morning fog common even during summer months.
What to do
Beach exploration: 5 minutes from The Lamp Camp offers direct access to quieter sections of Long Beach Peninsula beaches. "The tent sites are great, especially towards the ocean. Bathrooms are really nice. Big showers. Nice outside areas- cooking area, games, benches, lights along the bath to a beautiful quiet beach," notes Laura W.
Historical sites: 20-minute drive from several campgrounds to Fort Stevens State Park for military history. "Visiting the forts and cannons are fun. Bring mosquito repellent!" advises Gail S. from Fort Stevens State Park Campground.
Kayaking opportunities: Launch directly from Elochoman Marina for sheltered paddling. "We had a great spot on the water with beautiful sunset and walking distance to a pub and pizza place," shares Donald H. about his experience at the marina.
Stargazing: Best during clear nights at higher elevation camping spots. "Amazing views and complete silence! Tons of rabbits and wildflowers. We stayed on a Friday night in August and were the only ones here," reports Clayton P. about Road to Snag Lake.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Sites along Columbia River provide unique viewing opportunities. "Most sites have a view of the river. Fun to watch the large ships go by. Boat launch available. We have seen deer every time we have camped here," shares Maggie about Skamokawa Vista Park.
Privacy between sites: Some parks offer better separation than others. "Site 30 was a sweet little site; since it is a pull-through with trees on one side, it offers some privacy, it is tucked away and more private than many of the other sites," explains Lee D. about their stay at Skamokawa Vista Park.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Most sites welcome pets with designated areas. "The campground was packed but our site was still very private, small and cozy. Easy walk to the beach and great ocean views," reports D B. about Cape Disappointment State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept shower buildings. "Cute well maintained county campground right on the Columbia river on the WA side. Friendly camp hosts with sites available directly on the rivers edge and back in the trees as well. Bathrooms are clean and camp sites well maintained," notes Angela S. about her Skamokawa Vista Park experience.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some dispersed sites requires preparation. "The road getting here is a bit rough with lots of washboard, steep grades and rocks. But it's fun. No amenities, obviously, but there is a concrete pad from an old structure you can park on," advises Ryan S. about Road to Snag Lake.
Seasonal operations: Some campgrounds close during off-season. "Campground is nice clean restrooms and right on the beach. Lots of boat traffic to watch. Great hiking," reports Eric P., who stayed in a waterfront yurt at Skamokawa Vista Park, which operates primarily May through September.
Cell service variability: Coverage differs significantly between locations. "Great cell service! I was able to work remotely (teams calls) for 3 days with no issues. Also beautiful views!" shares Vivian N. about the reliable connection at Road to Snag Lake.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for mosquitoes and observe local fauna. "This entire park is VERY pet friendly. Keep your furry friends on a leash and you can take them on any of the trails in the park," notes Kier S. about Cape Disappointment.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer play structures for children. "Very kid friendly campground! Very clean and kid friendly campground!" mentions Beth C. about Skamokawa Vista Park, which includes playground areas and open spaces for recreation.
Weather preparation: Pack for variable conditions year-round. "Oregon is well known for it's magnificent state parks, and this is no exception. The campground is huge, probably some 400+ spaces; well cared for & clean, with an abundance of hiking trails & historical sites to explore," shares Gary M. about his family trip to Fort Stevens State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer historical interpretation. "We brought the kids and expected to listen to their complaints the whole time, but they were intrigued by everything!" shares Cadie H. about the historical attractions at Fort Stevens State Park.
Beach safety awareness: Monitor tides and wind conditions. "The beach is VERY windy and my mutt was fine walking downwind, but when we turned around she was very unhappy being very low to the ground with sand blowing in her face," warns Kier S. about Cape Disappointment's beaches.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully based on hookup placement. "Sites 27-29 are the most private with lots of trees separating them. Sites 27-33 have their own garbage receptacle at their site while others have a more centrally located garbage/recycling area," advises Lee D. about Skamokawa Vista Park.
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for peak season. "Your basic KOA with the amenities: flush toilets, showers, dog park, gift shop, kids activities, etc. but comes with the price $38/night basic primitive tent camping," reports Kaelin P. about Bay Center-Willapa Bay KOA.
Local supply stops: Note nearby towns for provisions. "Near by town of Cathlamet for needed supplies," mentions Angela S. about camping near Skamokawa Vista Park, highlighting the convenience of local shopping options.
Hookup considerations: Check utility requirements before booking. "The sites are really close together (for someone who likes forest camping), to the point where it's difficult to set up a lounge area. For sites 12 and 13 the river views are obscured by site 14," warns Jen R. about their Skamokawa Vista Park experience.
