Campgrounds near Hoquiam offer varied terrains from coastal settings to forested areas at elevations between sea level and 400 feet. The area receives over 70 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush environments but challenging camping conditions during winter months. Summer temperatures average 65-75°F while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures often below 40°F.
What to do
Beach driving access: 5 miles from Ocean City. Oceana RV Camping Resort provides convenient beach access for vehicles. "There is a short hike to the beach and it is wide open once there make note of your trail so as not to get confused on return. Not much around the park, 5 miles to Ocean City a store there a little further is Ocean Shores much more there with a casino," shares Gary K.
Hiking along waterways: 1-2 mile loops available. Friends Landing features riverside trails suitable for all skill levels. "A beautiful trail around the lake" makes this spot appealing according to Ashley E., who adds that the "river dock for fishing" provides additional recreational opportunities.
Clamming: Best during low tides. Pacific Beach State Park is known for exceptional clamming opportunities. "We have stayed here a couple of times for getting fresh air (smoke escape) and for great Razor Clam hunting," notes Paul W., who also mentions the possibility of seeing a "Green Flash with colorful sunsets."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Varies significantly by location. Lake Sylvia State Park Campground offers more secluded options. "We had plenty of vegetative separation between us and our neighbors which was great," reports Bill M., while site 299 was described as "the most secluded, so we got the most solitude here" by Kristen D.
Ocean sounds: Available at beachfront locations. JB's RV Park provides camping close to the shoreline. "This is a good location being right on the dunes and near the beach entrance with a short walk. Also puts you near the horse rentals," notes Jr And Jade S. The proximity allows campers to fall asleep to wave sounds.
Clean facilities: Maintained daily at most locations. Showers and restrooms receive regular attention at most dog friendly campgrounds near Hoquiam. At Grayland Beach State Park, Leonard H. appreciates the "good clean rest rooms and free showers" noting that the "shower was an acceptable warm temperature."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Prepare for rain year-round. At Grayland Beach State Park Campground, campers may experience frequent precipitation. "We stayed in site 108. The pad was surrounded by trees and felt really private. Protected from the wind. We were a few feet from a beach entry. Waking up our first morning it really loved up to it's name. Clouds and spotty showers left us wet but excited for the day!" shares Joseph M.
Site selection strategy: Reserve specific sites when possible. Many pet-friendly campgrounds in the Hoquiam area have significant variation in site quality. "We tent camped at site 299 in mid-May. The campground was pretty full, but site 299 was the most secluded, so we got the most solitude here. This site was also one of the biggest, and close to the restroom," advises Kristen D.
Insect awareness: Bring proper repellent. Mosquitoes can be prevalent in wooded areas. "The mosquitos were pretty bad, and werent deterred by our 'froo froo' spray, so do yourself a favor and take deet," warns Kristen D. about her Lake Sylvia experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Available at select locations. Friends Landing offers recreational facilities for children. "A river dock for fishing, a playground for kids, plus a beautiful trail around the lake" makes this "a great spot" for families according to Ashley E.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn/dusk optimal times. Ocean City State Park provides opportunities to observe local fauna. "Deer everywhere!" exclaims Marisa R., highlighting an exciting aspect of camping in this area for children.
Swimming options: Lake alternatives to ocean. Lake Sylvia State Park offers safer swimming for families than the ocean beaches. "Swimming, kayaking, a playground, and miles of trails" make this an "amazing place to camp for families" according to Ashley E.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Check placement before committing. Twin Harbors State Park Campground presents challenges for some RVers. "We had to run to town because the water and power hookups are ridiculously far away from where they sit on anyone's trailer or RV," reports C M., who also notes that "some folks had an RV or trailer and a tent and there was literally zero other space."
Site spacing: Varies dramatically by campground section. At Twin Harbors, "the RV campground was not awesome though. First, it's pretty tightly packed in. Even sitting at your picnic table feels like you're intruding in your neighbors," shares C M., while John G. advises that "RV spots with hookups are lined up next to each other, very little space between. Nice to have full hookups but we opted for a tent spot with our camper."
Level sites: Most common at newer campgrounds. Artic Park offers well-maintained areas for larger vehicles. "This privately owned campground has full hookups and tent sites. It has clean showers and restrooms, a rec room, and laundry. There is a tank dump and propane," according to Tim J., making it a functional option for RV camping near Hoquiam.
