Pacific Beach sits along Washington's central coast approximately 20 miles north of Ocean Shores, with most camping options located within 5-15 miles of the beach itself. The area receives approximately 70-80 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest settings that contrast with the expansive beaches. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-75°F while winter months often see temperatures between 40-50°F with increased precipitation.
What to do
Beach activities at Copalis Beach: Copalis Beach RV Resort offers a convenient base for beach exploration. "Easy access to the beach (trail is at the edge of the property)," notes Anthony J., who adds that cellular data is more reliable than the campground WiFi. During certain seasons, vehicles can access the beach through nearby entry points.
Blackberry picking: The forests near Hoquiam River RV Park are filled with wild blackberries in late summer. One visitor mentioned, "The Forest was loaded with delicious plump berries," making this a perfect activity for campers looking for a sweet treat during their stay.
Riverside walks: Take advantage of the maintained nature paths along the Hoquiam River. "The little walking trails along the river were gorgeous," according to Chelsea B., who was impressed by the peaceful setting. These trails are well-maintained and suitable for various ability levels.
Horse riding excursions: Visit the area near JB's RV Park for equestrian opportunities. According to one camper, this location "puts you near the horse rentals," making it convenient for visitors wanting to experience the beach on horseback.
What campers like
Private camping sites: Ocean Breeze RV Resort stands out for its secluded spots. "This campground had some of the most private sites I've ever seen. Rarely can you go to an RV park and not see your neighbors," reports Zach H., who appreciated the range of site options from open areas to forest-covered spots.
River views: Many campers enjoy the waterfront settings available at several parks. According to Brian G. at The Driftwood RV Resort, "Tent site had an amazing view and easy access to the river. All sites we clean with firewood provided."
Weekend activities: Ocean Breeze RV Resort offers organized events throughout the summer. "Love the Saturday Morning pancake breakfast and the Sunday morning cinnamon rolls!" shared Cheryl C., who also mentioned enjoying the access to beaches and Ocean Shores tourism opportunities.
Ancient forests: Nature enthusiasts appreciate the old-growth forests surrounding some campgrounds. At Ocean Breeze RV Resort, campers can "Check out the over 800 year old Sequioa stumps. And the stump carvings in the meadow are so cool!" according to one visitor.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The coastal Washington climate can be unpredictable year-round. One camper at Ocean Breeze RV Resort noted, "Weather in this part of WA is notoriously bad. We were there for a week in mid August and the temps barley broke 70 with 2 days of straight rain."
Campground conditions vary: Facilities range from well-maintained to rustic. At Copalis Beach RV Resort, one reviewer observed, "This is an older park and facilities show their age but the bathrooms and showers were very clean."
Flooding potential: Some areas experience seasonal flooding. At Thousand Trails Oceana, a camper mentioned, "Apparently this campground floods as it is below sea level we went at the time of year that was completely dry."
Cell service challenges: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. At Pacific Dunes Resort, a visitor reported, "NO Cell reception for T-Mobile or Verizon," which can impact communication and internet access for campers relying on cellular data.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly amenities. Ocean Breeze RV Resort features "Several playgrounds, a large pool, and other facilities that were all open," making it suitable for families with children of various ages.
Consider beach access difficulty: While many campgrounds advertise beach proximity, actual access varies. At Big Spruce Resort RV and Cabins, visitors appreciate the "Great tent sites and free hot showers," providing comfort after beach adventures.
Check for hidden features: Some campgrounds offer unexpected amenities for children. One visitor to The Driftwood RV Resort noted, "There are hidden treasures in the decor/landscaping that have been really fun for my 6 year old to spot."
Consider privacy needs: Family camping often benefits from more secluded sites. At Ocean Breeze RV Resort, campers can choose from "sites in open areas, some cut into the forest, and some completely covered by trees," allowing families to select based on their preferences.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Ocean City RV Resort, campers appreciate the "easy in and out with a trail to the beach," though one visitor warned to "bring spray" for mosquitoes. The well-groomed grounds provide a comfortable base for exploring the area.
Hookup limitations: Not all parks offer full hookups. At Ocean Breeze RV Resort, campers noted "30 amp no sewer" connections, requiring planning for longer stays.
Maneuverability challenges: Some parks have tight layouts making navigation difficult. At Pacific Dunes Resort, one RVer described "Smaller rv gravel sites. Difficult for guests to back in due to sharp corners and tight smaller spaces."
Seasonal considerations: While many RV parks near Pacific Beach, Washington remain open year-round, facilities may be limited in off-seasons. A visitor to Copalis Beach RV Resort in November mentioned, "We visited this resort during the off-season in November and during the middle of the week. There were only 8 other campers in the park."
