Campers seeking pet-friendly locations near Raymond, Washington can access coastal state parks and secluded woodland areas within a 30-minute drive. The region experiences significant seasonal variation with summer temperatures averaging 65-75°F and winter months bringing consistent rainfall of 70-90 inches annually. Dispersed camping options on Department of Natural Resources land require a Discover Pass, while established campgrounds typically provide amenities for pets including designated exercise areas.
What to do
Beach exploration at low tide: Grayland Beach State Park offers access to uncrowded beaches where visitors can search for sand dollars and enjoy sunset views. "Great location on an uncrowded beach. Simple, but great facilities. Clean and well organized. Lots of sand dollars," notes Dan N. about his experience at the park.
Lighthouse visits: Cape Disappointment State Park contains two historic lighthouses accessible via hiking trails. A visitor reports, "There are lots of places to explore, a decomposing whale on the beach (stay upwind!), a nice lighthouse (under construction when I visited) and very close to Long Beach."
Historical exploration: Fort Stevens State Park provides multiple military installations and bunkers to explore. According to Patrick M., the park offers "Interesting history abounds, from old forts, to the dangers (still present) of navigation at the mouth of the Columbia River. Great maritime museum in nearby Astoria."
Wildlife observation: Lake Sylvia State Park presents opportunities for bird watching and deer spotting in a forested setting. "Amazing place to camp for families! Nice sites, clean restrooms, swimming, kayaking, a playground, and miles of trails!" notes Ashley E.
What campers like
Private, spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in the Raymond area feature well-separated sites. At Grayland Beach State Park, Joseph M. appreciated that "The pad was surrounded by trees and felt really private. Protected from the wind. We were a few feet from a beach entry."
Natural soundscapes: The constant sound of waves creates a peaceful atmosphere at coastal campgrounds. Geanna R. shared about her Grayland Beach experience: "What a nice place! So quiet and such easy access to the beach. We were one of the few tents there; most people are in their RVs. Going to sleep with the sound of the ocean at night was priceless."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Raymond maintain well-kept shower and restroom facilities. At Twin Harbors State Park, Scott B. noted, "The general facilities were good - shower block, toilets, running water, and it was quite a busy time of the year but it was family friendly and respectful."
Helpful camp hosts: Staff at local campgrounds receive positive reviews for their assistance and friendliness. At Bay Center-Willapa Bay KOA, Robert O. mentioned, "Wonderful KOA covered in trees and close to bay/beach. Great campsite and customer service. Beautiful walk to beach. The Hosts very hospitable. Bathrooms too very clean."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping brings heavy rain and mud to coastal sites. Joshua W. shared about Grayland Beach State Park: "Have been coming here my whole since I was a kid. It's one of my favorites and they got hit hard with the heavy rains. No wind but man it was muddy at our site."
Cell service variability: Reception varies significantly between campgrounds in the Raymond area. At Cape Disappointment State Park, Christina F. reported, "I got zero reception in the campground. I use Verizon."
Mosquito preparation: Insects can be prevalent in wooded areas, particularly in summer months. Kristen D. warned about Twin Harbors: "The mosquitos were pretty bad, and werent deterred by our 'froo froo' spray, so do yourself a favor and take deet."
Site selection strategy: Campground layouts vary considerably with some offering more privacy than others. John G. advised about Twin Harbors: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Lake Sylvia State Park, Mary C. observed, "There is a playground on site and TONS of old logging roses turned bike trails. This site is super family friendly and pet friendly too."
Beach safety: Coastal campgrounds offer various levels of wave protection for young swimmers. Teresa M. notes about Ocean City State Park, "There's a parking area at the head of the trail to the beach. We're near the registration building up front, and it's a nice walk to the trailhead."
Wildlife encounters: Deer regularly visit campgrounds in the area, providing viewing opportunities. Greg B. observed at Ocean City State Park: "Trees surround most sites and deer wander through unattended sites."
Weekend crowding: Family-oriented campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Mercedes D. shared about Twin Harbors: "Unfortunately we were surrounded by people with small children that ran around the campground climbing and shaking the trees, riding and falling off their bikes/scooters, screaming and crying a whole bunch for what seemed like no reason."
Tips from RVers
Hookup location: At some campgrounds, utility connections require extra planning. C.M. noted about Twin Harbors State Park: "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."
Site privacy levels: RV areas often have different layouts than tent camping sections. Kier S. reported about Cape Disappointment: "One of the things I hate is hearing a ton of people around me while I'm camping. This campground is huge and very popular with families, but because of how close it is to the beach and a pretty constant wind you really don't hear anybody around you."
Low season advantages: Off-peak camping offers more solitude at pet-friendly locations. At Bruceport County Park, lizzy noted, "Went in late June and the campground was practically empty. Pretty good size tent camping spots. Right next to a cliff looking over the water."
