Montesano visitors have access to a range of camping options throughout the Olympic Peninsula's southern reaches. This area averages 76 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forest environments adjacent to coastal settings. Winter camping remains viable at several year-round facilities where temperatures rarely drop below freezing despite frequent precipitation.
What to do
Beach driving: Access from Hoquiam River RV Park allows direct vehicle access to coastal areas. "You can drive your car right up onto the beach, which was awesome," notes a camper who found the experience convenient for exploring. The park maintains clean facilities and riverside trails for additional activities.
Hiking through old growth: Explore the trails at Willaby Campground near Lake Quinault. "Check out the rainforest trail to see some spectacular old growth or drive upriver to do some pretty epic day hikes!" suggests one visitor. The campground provides access to numerous forest trails with minimal crowds during weekdays.
Clamming: Dig at low tide along coastal areas near Pacific Beach State Park Campground. "We have stayed here a couple of times for getting fresh air (smoke escape) and for great Razor Clam hunting," reports one camper. The park rangers can provide information on seasonal regulations and required permits.
What campers like
Tent site privacy: Sites at Coho Campground offer reasonable seclusion for a more natural experience. A camper notes, "The sites were adequate in size and have picnic tables and fire rings. Reasonable privacy. The bathrooms were clean and things were generally well maintained." Loop B sites 41 and 42 receive positive mentions for their wooded setting.
Lake access: Swimming areas attract summer visitors to several parks. At Millersylvania State Park, "The beach is the main attraction and it is hopping. We went early in the morning and staked a claim and were happy all day. There is a nice shallow area and two large swimming areas as well as a fishing dock."
Quiet midweek stays: Less crowded conditions prevail Sunday through Thursday at most campgrounds. "Like almost any campground in Washington State the campground empties out on Sunday and is almost empty during the early part of the week," explains one Coho Campground visitor who appreciates the solitude.
What you should know
Limited supplies: Remote locations require advance planning. At Bruceport County Park, visitors note it's "Sort of far from any town but beautiful spot." Another advises that Coho Campground "is a 35 miles off of the highway. If you go, pack everything you need. There are no stores or gas stations once you hit the paved road to the campground."
Weather considerations: Rain gear remains essential even in summer. "We enjoyed our stay at Millersylvania. It's a beautiful place... The only downside for us is that it is really crowded, and a few dogs and some very rude people kept us up until about 1 am," reports one visitor during peak season.
Shower tokens: Pay facilities operate at most parks. "Shower requires tokens but shortens the shower time if you have to wait," notes a Millersylvania visitor. Pacific Beach State Park provides "Two shower tokens per dollar, each token = 3 minutes."
Tips for camping with families
Lake recreation: Shallow water areas provide safer swimming environments. "The lake is small and great for letting kids go out in kayaks or other boats," writes a Millersylvania visitor. Morning hours typically offer calmer conditions before afternoon winds develop.
Scheduling advantages: Weekday visits significantly reduce crowding at popular destinations. A Pacific Beach visitor explains, "Summer books up quickly, need to secure 9 months in advance," highlighting the importance of planning for family trips during peak season.
Educational opportunities: Forest exploration combines with learning at Camp Thunderbird where "There are tent sites, adirondacks, and cabins. There is a great big field and lots of trails." The campground's location at Summit Lake provides water activities alongside forest experiences.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: Water and power access locations vary significantly between parks. "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," warns a Twin Harbors visitor who recommends bringing extension cords and longer water hoses.
Site selection considerations: Confirm measurements before booking at smaller facilities. A Coho Campground visitor cautions, "While the site might say it'll fit your vehicle, the roads are narrow and there are random boulders here and there which may impede your maneuvering." Calling ahead to verify actual conditions can prevent setup difficulties.
Dump station availability: Free services exist at several parks. The Bay Center-Willapa Bay KOA provides "a free dump site if you are camping there," which saves the typical $5-15 fee charged at standalone facilities throughout the region.
