Cape Disappointment State Park Camping

Camping at Cape Disappointment State Park offers a unique and scenic experience, blending natural beauty with rich history in one of Washington State’s most popular coastal parks. Nestled on the southern tip of the Long Beach Peninsula, the park spans nearly 2,023 acres, offering a mix of old-growth forests, saltwater marshes, freshwater lakes, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Columbia River’s mouth.

Campground Features

The park’s campground provides a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and group sizes. Cape Disappointment State Park Campground includes 220 mixed-use campsites, such as:

• 137 standard campsites

• 60 full-hookup sites

• 18 sites with water and electricity only

• 5 primitive campsites

• 14 yurts and 3 cabins

These sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 45 feet long. The campground is well-equipped with amenities including drinking water, flush toilets, hot showers (available for a fee), and a dump station. The park also offers a camp store (the Cape "D" Store) where visitors can purchase firewood, ice, groceries, clothing, and fishing gear, as well as enjoy hot sandwiches and ice cream.

For those looking for more comfort or a unique experience, the park provides rental cabins and yurts, which are especially popular in cooler months as they offer heating and other amenities. The yurts are within walking distance to the beach and can accommodate up to five people, while the cabins, which can host up to six people, come with a porch, electricity, heat, and a picnic table.

Campground Locations and Accessibility

Cape Disappointment's main campground is open year-round, making it a great destination for any season. Reservations are highly recommended, especially in the summer and fall when the park can get crowded. For those visiting in the off-season, shoulder months like winter and spring provide a quieter experience. However, visitors should be prepared for both sun and rain, as the area is known for its unpredictable coastal weather.

Activities and Recreation

Camping at Cape Disappointment is not only about the site itself but also the wide range of outdoor activities available within and around the park:

• Hiking: The park boasts miles of scenic trails, including the North Head Trail and Cape Disappointment Trail, offering stunning views of the coastline, lighthouses, and historic sites. For those interested in history, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center provides an educational stop along the trails.

• Swimming and Surfing: Waikiki Beach is a calm area where visitors can swim and relax, while more adventurous visitors may enjoy surfing at Benson Beach and the North Jetty.

• Boating and Fishing: With a boat launch and dock at Baker Bay, the park offers opportunities for water sports and fishing. Visitors can also try crabbing or clam digging at nearby beaches, such as Benson Beach.

• Wildlife and Bird Watching: The park is a haven for birders, with diverse bird species, especially in the fall and winter months. Visitors may spot grey whales passing through the waters during migration seasons.

Nearby Attractions

Camping at Cape Disappointment also places visitors near other fascinating sites. A short drive from the park, Astoria, Oregon, offers attractions like the Maritime Museum and historical sites, while Long Beach, with its vast sandy beaches and quaint shops, is perfect for a day trip. The Leadbetter Point State Park is another nearby gem, known for its migratory bird watching.

Additional Information

To enter the park, visitors will need a Discover Pass, which can be purchased online for a day pass or annually. The best times to visit are during the summer and fall months when the weather is more predictable, but the park remains accessible year-round, offering different experiences with each season.

Camping at Cape Disappointment State Park is an ideal choice for those looking to combine outdoor adventure, relaxation, and immersion in natural and historical wonders. Whether you're exploring historic forts, enjoying the coastline, or simply relaxing in a yurt by the beach, Cape Disappointment promises a memorable camping experience.