Cabin camping near Ocean Shores, Washington sits along a 29-mile peninsula where the Pacific Ocean meets Grays Harbor. Winter temperatures average 45°F with frequent rain, while summer brings milder 65-75°F conditions and less precipitation. Beach access points vary significantly between locations, with some cabins requiring a quarter-mile walk while others offer more direct routes to shorelines.
What to do
Clamming expeditions: Pacific Beach State Park offers excellent razor clamming opportunities during designated seasons. "We have stayed here a couple of times for getting fresh air (smoke escape) and for great Razor Clam hunting," notes a visitor. The park provides convenient beach access for diggers.
Beach driving: Copalis Beach RV Resort sits near vehicle beach access points. "During certain times of the year vehicles are allowed to drive on the beach through various access points within a couple of miles of the resort," explains a camper. Beach driving permits aren't required, but check tide tables before venturing out.
Wildlife viewing: Twin Harbors State Park features trails with bird watching opportunities. "The well maintained trails and the gorgeous empty long stretch of beach made up for all the chaos at the campground. Wake up early and you'll have the beach all to yourself," shares a visitor. Morning hours provide optimal viewing conditions.
What campers like
Sand dune explorations: The dunes between Grayland Beach State Park and the ocean create natural play areas. "The dunes between the campground and the beach make for a nice walk and an awesome place to explore and for kids to play," mentions a regular visitor. The dune system extends for several hundred yards in some sections.
Wind-related activities: Pacific Beach State Park becomes particularly lively when breezes pick up. "When the weather is nice and wind is blowing, the campground comes alive with kites, windsocks and other wind related decorations being flown from most campsites. It's quite the experience," reports a camper who stayed multiple times.
Private beach sections: Some resorts offer quieter beach experiences away from public access points. "There is a very nice pedestrian walkway bridge over a small stream and then a short walk through the dunes to a beautiful ocean beach," describes a visitor at Copalis Beach RV Resort. These areas tend to be less crowded even during peak summer weekends.
What you should know
Campground privacy varies significantly: Site selection matters greatly for those seeking seclusion. "This campground had some of the most private sites I've ever seen. There are sites in open areas, some cut into the forest, and some completely covered by trees," notes a visitor to Ocean Breeze RV Resort.
Weather considerations: The coastal climate can be challenging even in summer. "Weather in this part of WA is notoriously bad. We were there for a week in mid August and the temps barely broke 70 with 2 days of straight rain," reports a camper. Pack rain gear year-round.
Reservation timing: Securing cabin accommodations requires advance planning. "Summer books up quickly, need to secure 9 months in advance," advises a Pacific Beach State Park visitor. Holiday weekends often fill completely by early January.
Tips for camping with families
Shower token systems: Many campgrounds use pay showers. "Two shower tokens per dollar, each token = 3 minutes," explains a Pacific Beach State Park visitor. Bring plenty of quarters and teach kids to shower efficiently.
Playground options: Some resorts offer multiple play areas. At Ocean Breeze RV Resort, a visitor noted: "Several playgrounds, a large pool, and other facilities that were all open." These amenities provide alternatives when beach conditions aren't ideal.
Cell service limitations: Digital connectivity is unreliable throughout the area. "Cell service is very spotty and campground WiFi is as well," shares a Pacific Beach State Park camper. Download maps, entertainment, and information before arriving.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: At some parks, utility connections can be awkwardly placed. "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 a Twin Harbors State Park visitor. Bring extra-long water hoses and electrical cords.
RV site selection strategies: Many RVers avoid designated RV sections. "Very nice tent portion of the campground, short walk to the beach, beach is very long and uncrowded, although they allow driving on it. 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," explains a Twin Harbors camper.
Dump station access: Not all parks offer sewer hookups at sites. "No sewer hookups! In a 300+ site campground I was shocked to learn they had no option for sewer. They have 6 dump stations in 2 locations instead," reports an Ocean Breeze RV Resort visitor. Plan tank usage accordingly for longer stays.
