Best Campgrounds near Pacific Beach, WA
Pacific Beach, Washington features a range of oceanfront camping options where the Olympic Peninsula meets the Pacific Ocean. Pacific Beach State Park Campground stands as the area's premier destination, offering year-round camping directly on the beach with unobstructed ocean views. Within a 30-minute drive, additional options include private RV resorts in Copalis Beach and Ocean Shores, plus the military-only Pacific Beach Resort and Conference Center. Accommodations range from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV spots, yurts, and cabins. Most campgrounds provide direct beach access or are within walking distance of the shoreline, allowing campers to experience the Washington coast's expansive sandy beaches.
Weather conditions significantly impact the camping experience along this stretch of coastline. As one camper noted, "The wind is a constant and no water hookups but water available. No trees as it's right on the ocean." Winter camping requires preparation for cold, wet conditions, though many sites offer electrical hookups for heaters. Summer brings milder temperatures but still features frequent coastal fog and wind. Reservations are essential during peak season (June through September) and holiday weekends, with many campgrounds booking up to six months in advance. Cell service is limited throughout the area, particularly at beachfront locations. The Washington Discover Pass ($30 annually) is required at state parks and some nearby public lands.
Beachfront access represents the defining feature of Pacific Beach camping, with visitors consistently praising the proximity to the ocean. "Right on the ocean at Pacific Beach, this campground is small, but so close to the water. The sand is wonderful & the views are magnificent," reports one reviewer. Most oceanfront sites lack trees and natural windbreaks, creating an open camping experience with panoramic views but little privacy between sites. Popular activities include beachcombing, kite flying, and seasonal razor clamming. Several campgrounds provide outdoor showers for rinsing off sand. Highway noise affects some inland campgrounds, so requesting sites away from main roads is advisable. The small town of Pacific Beach offers basic services including a coffee shop, tavern, and small market, with more extensive shopping available in Ocean Shores.
