142 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The southwestern corner of Washington state surrounding Ilwaco features diverse camping options where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. Cape Disappointment State Park serves as the area's premier destination with spacious sites, beach access, and hiking trails leading to historic lighthouses. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access multiple state parks, private RV resorts, and limited dispersed camping opportunities. The region spans both Washington and Oregon sides of the Columbia River, with Fort Stevens State Park just across the Astoria-Megler Bridge offering extensive facilities including yurts and cabins. Most established campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with many providing full hookups for larger rigs.
Weather conditions significantly impact the camping experience along this coastal region, with summer offering the most reliable conditions. As one camper noted, "Cape Disappointment was a real treat, but weather can be very unpredictable the rest of the year." Advance reservations are essential during peak season (June through September) when campgrounds regularly reach capacity. Cell service varies dramatically throughout the area, with many campers reporting "ZERO cell service at the campsites" in Cape Disappointment, though signals improve in town. Most state parks require reservations through their respective state systems, with Washington sites bookable up to nine months in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation portal.
Beach access represents the primary draw for most campgrounds in the region, though few sites offer direct oceanfront camping. Visitors frequently mention the short walks required to reach beaches, with one reviewer noting that "the walk to the beach was up a hill in the sand and was challenging carrying chairs and a cooler but well worth it." Wildlife sightings, particularly deer and marine birds, enhance the camping experience. Fishing and crabbing opportunities abound, with one visitor reporting, "Fishing out of Ilwaco is a fantastic way to stock your freezer." The proximity to small coastal towns provides convenient access to supplies and seafood restaurants. Sites with beach trail access or views of the Columbia River typically book fastest, especially during holiday weekends and summer months.
"The trails around it were fun and led from the camp right up to the beach by the old ship wreck. My kids ages 2-14 always had something to do and we brought our bikes."
"Extensive walking/biking paths and beautiful shady sites. I now have a camper van and stop by frequently to use the dump station."
from $17 - $162 / night
Check Availability"Once we got near Ilwaco, we followed the state park signs to the campground(CG)."
"We reserved our space online with the Washington State Parks website."
from $12 - $252 / night
Check Availability"Just across from the state park where you can take beach walks and enjoy sunsets. Clean and spacious showers and bathrooms."
"Everyone in the general camping areas kept distance or was masked up. Appreciate that codes are given out to gain access to the bathrooms (very clean)."
from $45 / night
Check Availability"Nice quiet place and easy access to the beach. We will definitely be back!"
"It is a bit of a walk over to the beach but super nice walk and so quiet."
from $60 - $67 / night
Check Availability"odd numbers site have hook ups on the right , even have hook ups on the left. ( drivers side) very clean, friendly and fun place to stay. lots of amenities, pool, hot tub, horseshoes, and walking distance"
"A 5 minute walk down the beach path leads to a great beach. The sites are tight, but the town was fun."
"There are several spots off the road around these radio tower stations and it is quite secluded. We didn't see any other person the whole time we were there."
"There's basically zero traffic on the dirt road near the campsite. A lot of the trees around seem to be new growth. Great view of the stars at night!"
"Short walk to the beautiful ocean. Friendly hosts."
"Not sure what that was about or if it’s for sale, but they were baking when we walked in to the office and it smelled great. The walk to the beach was a pleasant roughly 0.25 mile one."
"This is a good private campground just off Hyway 101 near Long Beach WA, the placement of the campground give a short drive to Long Beach or Astoria, OR both locations are loads of fun."
"Didn’t have a chance to stay but driving by the park looked nice. Big plots with open grass. Saw a few tents and some RVs."
from $33 - $70 / night
Check Availability"It’s .30 miles from a beautiful clean unspoiled beach by way of a path that’s a beautiful walk. Suddenly you climb a small incline and there’s the Pacific in all its glory."
"They are out friendly with great access to the beach."
"It gives access to all the amenities here. They took out the propane site, cause they didn’t have anyone to take care of it. We come down here to get away from the heat, inland, area."
"Open year-round, this RV Park is located in the town of Seaside on the Oregon Coast."
TravelerLot of older people living here, but very friendly, no safety issues! Full hook ups! The other reviews are talking about the grass area at Seafarer’s Park, 1/4 mile up directly at the river. The Marina RV Park is before that.
RangerLovely little spot right by Willapa Bay. The campground has 12 sites suitable for tenting, campervans, or small tent trailers. The spots aren’t really designed for trailers, most are a bit uneven, but we were still able to make it work with a camper-van. Sites along the outer edge offer more privacy; the ones in the middle feel a bit more exposed. There’s a nice path down to a small beach area—just check the tide schedule, as high tide can affect access. It’s $20 per night and includes toilets and showers. A large open field nearby is perfect for badminton, basketball, baseball, or soccer, making it a great option for families. When we stayed, there were only three other campers, so it felt quiet and uncrowded.
RangerPaved roads a little narrow so more challenging to back-in 90-degree sites vs. 45-degree angled sites. Good restrooms with flush toilets and h/c water sinks. Hot showers included as part of camping fee. Two dump stations at entrance use honor system to pay $10 via cell-phone app. Nice beach walks over sand dunes to long flat beach. Expect wind on beach. Some sites a little close together but ok overall. Expect lots of families with kids in summer and on weekends. Overall a good stay.
ScoutVery nice quiet small local campground. Easy walk to Wallipa Bay.
RangerModern clean bathrooms and laundry. Friendly host and nice neighbors. Reservations made in the phone and then check-in with the host
RangerThe camp host rode by on his bike and said this was his personal favorite site at the campground. Very tucked away with trails leading to the river. Very spacious with fire ring pit and bathroom right across from it. The parking spot had enough sun to charge our solar. Firewood for sale. Really cleared out after the weekend. 2 water stations. Disabled veterans free. First come first serve. Dogs allowed on leash. Absolutely loved it
RangerDisabled veterans free!! Firewood for sale. Bathrooms available. Dogs allowed. Short hike to the falls. You can hear it from the campground. Gray water disposal at our site #14. Fire rings at sites with cook grill over it. Picnic tables at each site. We were right across from the camp host who was awesome. Everyone really cleared out Sunday. We rode bikes around. Loved this place. They also had multiple water stations to fill.
TravelerLong term renters are really nice. Facilities include laundry, showers, a kitchen, boat ramp, pool. Most sites are full hookup. It was select your own free site on arrival. The manager Jess was really nice and clearly working hard.
RangerMake sure to drive the whole road! Someone had already taken the last spot so we turned around and snagged the first spot before the cell phone tower. View was just as good. Road was a little rough and steep but the van handled it great. This was the first dispersed site I’ve visited that had a concrete slab at the spots. Loved it here!!
Long Beach Peninsula's extensive camping options span a 28-mile stretch along Washington's southwestern coast. While the area receives an average of 80 inches of rainfall annually, the summer months typically offer drier conditions with temperatures rarely exceeding 70°F. Camping near Ilwaco provides direct access to both the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean, with most campgrounds operating at full capacity from late May through September.
Beach exploration: The Lamp Camp offers convenient access to Long Beach's shoreline. "A 5 minute walk down the beach path leads to a great beach. The sites are tight, but the town was fun," notes Kate S., who camped at Thousand Trails Long Beach.
Historical sites: Fort Stevens State Park contains military structures dating back to the Civil War. "Visiting the forts and cannons are fun. Bring mosquito repellent!" recommends Gail S. who stayed at Fort Stevens State Park Campground.
Lighthouse tours: Cape Disappointment features two historic lighthouses with guided tours available weekends during summer. "There are two lighthouses in the park, trails, jetty, and an interperative center. Once out of the park, Long Beach is a short drive," shares Christina F. about her experience at Cape Disappointment.
Kite flying: The peninsula hosts an annual International Kite Festival each August. "The Kite festival is happening at this time. It's been a bit understated for the lack of wind. The weather has been fairly good," reports one camper about their stay at Thousand Trails Long Beach.
Privacy despite crowds: Many campgrounds manage to maintain secluded spots despite high occupancy. "The campground was packed but our site was still very private, small and cozy. Easy walk to the beach and great ocean views," shares D B. about Cape Disappointment State Park Campground.
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds frequently offer recreational facilities beyond beach access. "There is a fire pit and picnic table outside each yurt. The flaps on the windows can be rolled up and down to adjust the airflow. The bathhouse is within walking distance," reports MomSolo about Fort Stevens State Park.
Trail systems: Extensive trail networks connect campgrounds to beaches and natural areas. "Paved roads great for bike riding. Very well maintained, some camp sites with full hook. Yurts and cabins also available," notes Diane F. about Cape Disappointment State Park.
Community spaces: Many campgrounds feature shared areas for socializing. "This place has a cool vibe, very family and dog friendly. They have a communal fire pit, laundry, and even a little rec room," explains Dana K. about Cedar to Surf Campground.
Weather preparedness: Coastal weather can change rapidly regardless of season. "I recommended being prepared for any type of weather rain or shine," advises Jenny M. about her experience at Fort Stevens State Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "I got zero reception in the campground. I use Verizon," reports Christina F. about Cape Disappointment State Park Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking 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 MomSolo about Fort Stevens.
Road conditions: Some dispersed camping areas require navigating rough terrain. "The road getting here is a bit rough with lots of washboard, steep grades and rocks. But it's fun," explains Ryan S. about Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed.
Beach proximity matters: Choose campsites with shortest walks to beach when camping with children. "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 Jenny M. about Fort Stevens.
Entertainment options: Several campgrounds offer programmed activities for children. "We brought the kids and expected to listen to their complaints the whole time, but they were intrigued by everything!" reports Cadie H. about Fort Stevens State Park.
Accommodation variety: Families with young children might prefer cabins or yurts over tent camping. "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," explains MomSolo about Astoria-Warrenton-Seaside KOA.
Indoor facilities: Look for campgrounds with recreation buildings for rainy days. "They have a communal fire pit, laundry, and even a little rec room. It's cozy here, the staff members have been lovely," notes Dana K. about Cedar to Surf Campground.
Site orientation: At some campgrounds, hookup placement varies by site number. "Odd numbers site have hook ups on the right, even have hook ups on the left (drivers side)," explains Jamie R. about Thousand Trails Long Beach.
Backing space limitations: Some parks have challenging site access. "The spaces are very tight at 90 degree angles to the road. This requires backing skill level 10! The north side and middle give little room for it, and the south side has an area that at least gives some wiggle room," advises Derek & Alex W. about Thousand Trails.
Extended stay amenities: For longer visits, consider facilities beyond basic hookups. "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," notes Devin about Thousand Trails Long Beach.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires different site selection than summer visits. "Nice level sites, easy to back into. Sites close together - we were here in fall so only 30% full so lots of privacy," explains karl about Pacific Holiday RV Resort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds in Ilwaco, WA?
The top campground in Ilwaco is Cape Disappointment State Park Campground, offering spacious campsites with full hookups, clean facilities, and spectacular coastal scenery. This park features beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and historical attractions like lighthouses. For RV travelers seeking proximity to town, Fisherman's Cove RV Park provides convenient walking access to Ilwaco's marina and downtown area. The park is situated near the Columbia River in southwest Washington, making it an excellent base for exploring Cape Disappointment State Park and surrounding coastal attractions.
How does camping in Ilwaco compare to Long Beach campgrounds?
Ilwaco campgrounds tend to offer more woodsy, sheltered settings near the Columbia River and harbor area, while Long Beach options are typically closer to the ocean beaches. Thousand Trails Long Beach exemplifies the Long Beach experience with amenities like a pool, hot tub, and horseshoes, plus walking distance to Long Beach, Seaview, and Ilwaco. Sites are arranged with odd-numbered spots having hookups on the right and even numbers on the left. For a nearby alternative, Wallicut River RV Resort & Campground provides a quieter setting while still offering access to the coastal attractions of both areas.
What amenities are available at Ilwaco, WA camping areas?
Camping areas around Ilwaco offer a range of amenities to suit different preferences. Pacific Holiday RV Resort features full hookups, water access, and big-rig-friendly sites with clean facilities. For those seeking state park amenities, nearby options provide full hookup sites, clean bathrooms with showers, and well-maintained camping areas. Many campgrounds in the area offer easy check-in processes and convenient access to local attractions. Proximity to fishing spots, kayaking opportunities, and walking distance to Ilwaco's marina and downtown are common benefits. The campgrounds generally provide basic utilities while allowing visitors to enjoy the natural coastal setting and nearby recreational activities.
Keep Exploring
