Camping spots near Ridgefield, Washington range from state parks to specialized RV facilities within a 45-minute drive radius. The region sits at the confluence of the Columbia and Lewis rivers with elevations ranging from near sea level to 500 feet in the surrounding foothills. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with low humidity, while winter camping often experiences temperatures around 35-45°F with frequent rain.
What to do
Disc golf at Paradise Point: The 9-hole course offers a unique playing experience with hole one positioned under a freeway overpass. "The disc golf course is entertaining, but not super challenging. Located on barely 10 acres the designers have done a good job using every bit of the land here," notes one visitor at Paradise Point State Park Campground.
Kayaking on Scappoose Bay: Launch directly from your campsite at Bayport RV Park. "Located right next to a public boat ramp and Next Adventure where you can rent boats... or bring your own for kayaking on Scappoose Bay," explains a camper. The calm waters make this spot ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers.
Hiking at L.L. Stub Stewart: The park features multiple trail options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "There are lots of hiking near by," shares one camper at Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground. For more extensive hiking, the Banks-Vernonia Trail provides a paved option that runs through L.L. Stub Stewart State Park.
What campers like
Volcanic lake swimming: Battle Ground Lake offers a unique swimming experience in a crater-like formation. "They have a cool volcanic lake with a swimming area and great fishing. Its like a mini crater lake. I mean mini like pond size," describes one visitor.
River views and shipping vessels: The Columbia River provides entertainment with large ships passing by. "Eating apple pie and watching 20 story tall container ships glide by was neat," shares a camper at Reeder Beach RV Park & Country Store. Multiple camping areas along the river provide front-row seats to maritime traffic.
Quiet farm surroundings: Some campgrounds offer more rural settings. "You pass through farmlands to get here where during harvest you can pick up fresh veggies and fruit. Perfect for dogs with a nice trail. You can get into the city within 10 minutes," explains a visitor to Reeder Beach.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some riverside campsites have issues with drinking water. "Flat gravel for most part, steps away from the Columbia River, decent space between sites with good shade depending on your site. Only reason for 4 starts is because the water is dirty. It's brownish and smells like metal. Make sure to bring your own fresh water," cautions a camper.
Transportation access: Public transit options exist from certain campgrounds into Portland. "We don't have a tow car so we relied on public transportation to get to downtown, which was great (though it is a 1 mile walk to the bus stop)," notes a visitor at Columbia River RV Park.
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season, especially on weekends. "Reservations are made online or there are some first come first serve spaces. We made a reservation in advance when we arrive there is no host but your spot has a reserved sticker on it," explains a camper at Bayport RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Cart assistance for gear: Families with small children benefit from equipment assistance at hike-in sites. "The hike in is pretty easy--about a quarter mile down the up. They have carts to help you get all your stuff to your spot in one trip which is very helpful," explains a visitor at L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park.
Multiple pool options: Some RV parks offer swimming facilities for children. "My kiddos absolutely loved the three pools, playground, and basketball hoops. Plenty to check out and explore for them even if this was not your typical 'campground' experience," shares a visitor at Jantzen Beach RV Park.
Life jacket borrowing: Some water access points provide safety equipment. "The day use area also provides life jackets if you forget yours," notes a Paradise Point visitor, making water activities more accessible for families traveling with limited space.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites strategically at state parks for more seclusion. "The Dairy Creek West loop has more shaded and privacy for most of the sites if thats what you are seeking, while the East loop is more open and affords a more social experience for those who like the chance to interact with their neighbors a bit more," advises an L.L. Stub Stewart visitor.
RV length restrictions: Many campgrounds have limitations not clearly stated online. "We put the size of our RV in the state website and it gave us site 50. We arrived and it was IMPOSSIBLE to get our rig in that site due to the trees. We couldn't even continue out the secondary loop because it was so narrow and had trees on the inside of turns," warns a Paradise Point camper.
Water pressure considerations: Some campgrounds have utility issues RVers should prepare for. "Water pressure is the lowest we've ever experienced. Not sure what's going on but all of the folks we've talked to are experiencing the same," notes a Jantzen Beach RV Park visitor.
