Primitive camping sites near Oakville, Washington provide alternative options to glamping accommodations in the region. Located in the Willapa Hills of southwestern Washington at approximately 400 feet elevation, this area experiences a maritime climate with year-round precipitation averaging 60 inches annually. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-45°F, while summer averages 65-75°F with occasional heat spells.
What to do
Paddle Deep Lake: Enjoy kayaking and canoeing at Millersylvania State Park Campground where visitors appreciate the designated paddle areas. "The lake is great for letting kids go out in kayaks or other boats. The lake is small and great for letting kids go out in kayaks or other boats," notes Ellen T.
Explore old-growth forest: Walk through towering trees at Lewis & Clark State Park Campground on well-maintained trails. "In the morning, we hiked the old growth loop prior to resuming our journey," shares Jennifer Q., who appreciated the "tall trees, lush foliage, immaculately maintained" grounds.
Beach activities: Drive directly on the sand at Grayland Beach State Park Campground where vehicle access is permitted in designated areas. "A broad beach that you can drive on. Snowy Plover nesting areas to avoid while doing so," advises Michael Y., noting the environmental considerations.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many sites at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground offer seclusion among tall trees. "We had a view of the woods and quite a bit of space between neighboring sites. We could not see either of the neighboring sites while sitting by our campfire," reports Christina F.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds near Oakville remain open year-round. "After months of trying to get reservations for this popular campground, we finally got one for Thanksgiving weekend! The park is on their winter schedule so only sites 1-7 and 226-248 were open," shares Christina F. about Millersylvania State Park.
Clean facilities: Restrooms and shower buildings receive regular maintenance. "Clean flushing bathrooms. Staff is friendly. Nice, grassy spots," reports Brons C. about Alder Lake Park, while Leonard H. notes at Grayland Beach State Park, "Good clean rest rooms and free showers. Shower was an acceptable warm temperature."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book early for peak season and weekends, especially at popular parks. "When we were there the pool was closed and not much else to do (it was too cold to swim anyway). Pool was nothing fancy but would have been fun for the kids to swim in," explains Brian C. about Olympia Campground.
Weather preparation: Pack for rain even in summer months. "It was raining for nearly our entire time here, but we still enjoyed the close/easy access to bathrooms, showers, potable water, and hiking trails," shares Geanna R. about camping at Millersylvania despite the conditions.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "Very good Verizon cell service," reports Christina F. about Ike Kinswa, while at Seaquest State Park, "No cell (occasionally 1 bar LTE AT&T). Too heavily forested for Starlink," according to Kim G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Seaquest State Park Campground offers dedicated children's play areas. "The campground had a huge playground area as well as a day use site with covered shelters within the park," describes Ashley B., who also highlights the "great Junior Ranger program with a very enthusiastic park ranger that kept the almost 50 people/kids entertained."
Swimming options: Look for designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. "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," advises Ellen T. about Millersylvania State Park.
Biking-friendly campsites: Several parks feature paved loops suitable for children learning to ride. "We absolutely love this campground. We usually reserve the 3 sites that are closest to the swimming area (no guard). Our kids love walking the trails and riding their bikes around the loops," shares Latosha H. about Ike Kinswa State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up distances: At some sites, utilities may be positioned inconveniently. "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 C.M. about Twin Harbors State Park Campground.
Site selection for privacy: Look beyond full hook-up areas for more space. "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," recommends John G. about Twin Harbors State Park.
Power limitations: Monitor electrical usage during peak seasons. "The RV section had six spots. 3 of those spots back up to a busy paved road with traffic. The road is mere feet from the camper. Dangerous for dogs and kids," cautions Lisa P. about Lewis & Clark State Park's RV area.
