RV camping near Kalama, Washington places visitors between Mount St. Helens and the Columbia River, at elevations ranging from sea level to about 600 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with moderate humidity, while winter months bring frequent rain and temperatures between 35-45°F. Most sites in the area offer year-round access, though seasonal closures affect some facilities from November through March.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Bayport RV Park and Campground offers direct water access for kayaking on Scappoose Bay. "Located right next to a public boat ramp and Next Adventure where you can rent boats... or bring your own for kayaking on Scappoose Bay," notes a visitor to Bayport RV Park.
Day trips to Mount St. Helens: About 40 minutes north of Kalama, visitors can explore volcanic landscapes. "Only about 7 minutes to the visitors center for mt St. Helens. There's about 200 rv spots but they do have a couple tent spots," reports a camper at Toutle River RV Resort.
Fishing opportunities: Silver Lake provides productive fishing just 45 minutes north of Kalama. "The spots I've stayed in are huge. Room for a fifth wheel (awning and slide out), two vehicles and two large dogs without feeling packed in at all. The sites almost all back up to the water and fishing is pretty easy here. Mostly crappie and bass though I've seen a couple trout or perch pulled out," explains a visitor to Silver Cove RV Resort.
What campers like
Quiet, wooded settings: Some RV sites near Kalama, Washington offer surprisingly tranquil surroundings despite proximity to highways. "Spaces are close together but because of the mature Forrest you couldn't see your neighbors! It was beautiful. We only stayed 2 nights and spent most of our days out exploring Portland. We hadn't made reservations but called earlier in the day and they got us in no problem," explains a visitor to Big Fir Campground & RV Park.
Family-oriented facilities: Camping options include amenities specifically for families with children. "This is the kind of RV park that I like. Nice spots surrounded by grass, decent space between sites (not much, but enough), and most importantly, lots and lots of things for kiddos to explore. There's random trails, a playground, big green fields, volleyball court, etc. Plenty to keep them busy and felt completely comfortable letting them run around," reports a visitor to Toutle River RV Resort.
Proximity to metropolitan areas: Many Kalama area RV parks provide access to urban conveniences. "Nice, clean RV park with newer models, greenery and a pool. I'll be honest. I wasn't expecting much from this RV Park. It's not in the most exciting area of Portland (the closet thing is a Walmart down the road). But it's actually quite lovely. Nice and clean. Plenty of green space, trees," notes a visitor to Portland Fairview RV Park.
What you should know
Noise levels vary significantly: Some campgrounds experience consistent noise from transportation corridors. "Worst camping experience of my life. Noisy. Highway and airport. It's terrible," reports one camper at Scappoose RV Park. Another notes, "The spots are backed up against the road. Lots of trucks pass by and you feel like they are driving through your camping spot."
Reservation requirements: Many RV sites near Kalama fill quickly, particularly waterfront locations. "Front office seemed a little disorganized. But straighten things out right away. Clean Park friendly people," explains a Portland Fairview visitor, while others recommend booking at least two weeks ahead during summer months.
Dump station access: Not all parks provide on-site sewage disposal. "They do have waste disposal for a fee but they offer drinking water and full Electric and water but no sewage hookup you pay at the dump station," notes a Bayport visitor. Alternative options exist at truck stops along I-5 near Kalama.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several parks offer swimming facilities that appeal to children. "The park is beautiful the bathrooms and showers are clean," mentions a Portland Fairview RV Park visitor, while multiple reviews highlight the availability of pools as critical for families during summer months.
Recreational activities: Parks provide varying levels of organized recreation. A visitor to Columbia River RV Park notes, "The park has two off-leash dog areas, two shower facilities, a community kitchen, a rec room that you can use for gatherings, a free table for giving away things that you don't need or taking things you want, a laundry facility, and a workout room."
Site selection: When traveling with children, location within the park matters. "I like the central area better (closer to facilities). The camp is right off the freeway, but if you're back off the road there's not as much noise," advises a Toutle River visitor. Request sites away from busy roads and highways when possible.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure considerations: Some parks experience infrastructure issues. "Water pressure is the lowest we've ever experienced. Not sure what's going on but all of the folks we've talked to are experiencing the same. Maybe because we're on an island?" notes a Columbia River RV Park visitor.
Site dimensions: RV accommodations vary considerably between facilities. "The sites are straightforward and provide everything you need for a comfortable stay, whether you're in a big rig or just stopping by with a smaller setup," explains another Columbia River RV Park visitor.
Security measures: Campground safety varies across the region. "Security could be improved, especially during late hours. Although I didn't experience any issues myself, I noticed a few concerns raised by other visitors regarding theft and late-night disturbances," reports a visitor to Portland Fairview RV Park.
