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128 campgrounds and RV Parks near Cathlamet, WA. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
128 campgrounds
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From $15/night
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Best campgrounds near Cathlamet, WA
Skamokawa Vista Park
Washington (6 miles away)
$$$$$
(34 sites)
+7
Clatskanie River Inn and RV Park
Clatskanie, OR (11 miles away)
$$$$$
(10 sites)
+3
Clatsop State Forest - Northrup Creek Horse Camp
Clatskanie, OR (13 miles away)
$$$$$
(11 sites)
RV Outdoor adventures and Cabins
Clatskanie, OR (13 miles away)
$$$$$
(30 sites)
+5
Tunerville - Department of Natural Resources
Washington (19 miles away)
Free
(3 sites)
Lewis and Clark Golf and RV Resort
Astoria, OR (22 miles away)
$$$$$
(45 sites)
+2
Toutle River RV Resort
Castle Rock, WA (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(306 sites)
+7
Paradise Cove Resort and RV Park
Castle Rock, WA (24 miles away)
Brookhollow RV Park
Kelso, WA (24 miles away)
$$$$$
Longview North / Mount St Helens KOA Journey
Castle Rock, WA (25 miles away)
$$$$$
(88 sites)
+4
Snag Lake - Department of Natural Resources
Washington (25 miles away)
Free
(4 sites)
Western Lakes - Department of Natural Resources
Washington (26 miles away)
(3 sites)
Most common amenities
Pet friendly Toilets Tables Showers Internet Grills Laundry Dump station Firewood Playground
Camping near Cathlamet, Washington
Cathlamet sits on the north bank of the lower Columbia River in Wahkiakum County, roughly halfway between Longview and Astoria. The town works as a base for RV travelers exploring the lower Columbia estuary, the Julia Butler Hansen Refuge, and the ferry crossing to Oregon. Campgrounds in the area lean toward small, county- and port-run parks rather than large private resorts.
Skamokawa Vista Park, about five miles west of town, spreads across a forested 75-acre riverfront site and offers 69 campsites plus five yurts, with a mix of full-hookup, partial-hookup, and dry or tent sites. Additional options nearby include Clatskanie River Inn and RV Park and RV Outdoor adventures and Cabins across the river in Oregon.
Dispersed and primitive options exist on state and forest land. Tunerville, a Washington DNR site in a former logging camp near Naselle, is set up as an equine-friendly recreation area and requires a Discover Pass. South of the river, Clatsop State Forest - Northrup Creek Horse Camp offers reservable equestrian and drive-in sites in a quiet corner of northwestern Oregon, tucked among tall fir trees along Northrup Creek.
Things to do around Cathlamet
The Columbia River drives most recreation here. A boat launch at Brooks Slough and Skamokawa Creek supports boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Ship-watching is a low-effort family activity, since large ocean vessels travel the shipping channel between the Pacific and inland ports right past the Skamokawa waterfront.
On land, the Julia Butler Hansen Refuge protects Columbian white-tailed deer and has quiet driving and walking routes. The Wahkiakum County ferry connects Cathlamet with Westport, Oregon, giving RV travelers a short crossing to Clatsop State Forest trails and the Astoria area.
For riders and hikers, Clatsop State Forest - Northrup Creek Horse Camp provides direct access to forest riding trails, and the Big Tree Trail leads from the tent camping area past old-growth Douglas firs to creek access.
Camping spots and RV parks near Cathlamet, WA
When to visit Cathlamet
- spring
March - May
55° / 37°F 108 mmCool and wet; parks reopen through May
- summer
June - August
72° / 48°F 33 mmPeak season; riverfront sites fill weeks ahead
- fall
September - November
59° / 42°F 135 mmMild early, wet by November; refuge wildlife viewing strong
- winter
December - February
45° / 34°F 206 mmWettest season; wind and rain at riverfront sites
Summer is the practical camping window. June through early September brings the driest, warmest weather, with long daylight and reliable access to river activities. Demand at riverfront sites climbs through July and August, so booking several weeks out for weekends is wise.
Shoulder seasons work for travelers who accept variable weather. Spring brings green forests and fewer campers, but rain is frequent and some seasonal facilities are still closed. Clatsop State Forest - Northrup Creek Horse Camp typically operates from May through November. Fall cools quickly after mid-September, with rain increasing into October and November. Wildlife viewing at the Julia Butler Hansen Refuge stays strong in these months.
Winter camping is possible at year-round riverfront sites, though it is wet and often windy. Visitors should prepare for the Pacific Northwest's characteristic wet conditions, especially at exposed sites along the river. Washington DNR sites such as Tunerville remain first-come, first-served year-round, useful for last-minute planning.
How to book campgrounds near Cathlamet
Reservation systems vary by operator. Skamokawa Vista Park takes online reservations through the Port of Wahkiakum County No. 2 website, and sites can be reserved 24 hours a day. All campers must check in on arrival and pay for their site in full within 24 hours, and drop-ins arriving after office hours must reserve their campsite online immediately on arrival.
Oregon Department of Forestry sites use ReserveAmerica. Reservations are required to stay in all sites at Clatsop State Forest - Northrup Creek Horse Camp, and walk-ins are not allowed. Private parks such as Clatskanie River Inn and RV Park and RV Outdoor adventures and Cabins take direct bookings by phone or their own websites.
Washington DNR sites operate differently. Tunerville - Department of Natural Resources is first-come, first-served with no reservations, and dogs are allowed on leash. A Discover Pass is required and must be displayed in the front windshield while parked at DNR sites.
What to expect on the ground
Riverfront sites deliver views and ship traffic, but wind is a factor. Sites along the river can be very windy, while sites tucked up in the trees may have little breeze. Waterfront sites at Skamokawa Vista Park in particular are exposed, and tent campers should plan for gale-force gusts in the evening even in summer.
Amenities at developed parks are practical, not luxurious. Skamokawa Vista Park offers drinking water, flush toilets, coin-operated showers, a sports field, tennis and basketball courts, a picnic area, playground, and hiking trails, with each campsite offering a table, fire ring, and grate. Cell coverage is generally usable near town but drops in the state forests.
Cathlamet itself is small. The town has a market and a few cafes for basic supplies. Stock up on groceries in Longview or Astoria for longer stays.
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
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Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Cathlamet, WA
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Cathlamet?
RV rental in Cathlamet is one of the more affordable ways to explore the Lower Columbia River, with most travel trailers starting around $90 to $150 per night, Class C motorhomes typically running $175 to $275 per night, and larger Class A motorhomes ranging from $225 to $400 nightly. Because Cathlamet sits in rural Wahkiakum County, you often find better value here than near Portland or Seattle. For a cheap RV rental in Cathlamet, book midweek or in shoulder season (April or late September) when pricing tends to drop. Pro tip: filter for Instant Book and small travel trailers for the lowest nightly rates, then add a delivery package so you skip towing entirely.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Cathlamet,%20WashingtonDo I need a special license to rent an RV in Cathlamet?
Good news: a regular driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in Cathlamet. The Washington State Department of Licensing does not require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or any special RV endorsement for personal motorhomes or travel trailers used for recreation. You need to be 25 or older to book on RVezy, and your ID is confirmed quickly through the platform during checkout. International visitors are welcome too, just bring your home country license plus an International Driving Permit (IDP). Most first-time renters find the process takes only a few minutes, leaving you free to focus on planning your Columbia River route.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsIs RV rental in Cathlamet covered by insurance and roadside help?
Yes, every RV rental in Cathlamet booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan plus 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can hit State Route 4 with peace of mind. The protection plan covers physical damage to the RV during your trip, and you choose your coverage level (not the host) during checkout to fit your comfort level and budget. It is not traditional auto insurance, but it provides meaningful financial protection for renters new to RVing. Pro tip: review the included roadside benefits before departure so if you get a flat near Skamokawa or need a tow on the Ocean Beach Highway, you know exactly who to call.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat happens if I need to cancel my Cathlamet RV rental?
Booking is low-risk: RVezy sets a clear cancellation policy on every reservation (not the host), and it includes a money-back grace period right after you book so you have time to sort out plans without pressure. If weather along the Columbia turns dramatic or a wildfire detour affects southwest Washington, RVezy support works with you on extenuating circumstances too. The exact refund amount depends on how far out from your trip start you cancel, but the structure is designed to be fair. Pro tip: book your Cathlamet RV trip early to lock in the best units, knowing the grace period gives you breathing room to confirm campground reservations before fully committing.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a Cathlamet RV trip?
Yes, dogs are very welcome on plenty of Cathlamet rentals, just filter for Pet-Friendly when searching to see hosts who allow furry copilots. A pet-friendly RV rental Cathlamet pairs perfectly with the area's outdoor lifestyle: leashed dogs are allowed at Skamokawa Vista Park, on the beach at Vista Park's Columbia River frontage, and on many trails through the Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer just west of town. Some hosts charge a small pet cleaning fee (usually $25 to $75), which is listed clearly on the listing page. Pro tip: message the host before booking to mention your dog's size and breed, most are quick to confirm and often share their own favorite local off-leash spots.
fws.gov/refuge/julia-butler-hansenCan the RV be delivered to my campground in Cathlamet?
Yes, RV delivery in Cathlamet is one of the easiest ways to start your trip, especially if you are nervous about driving a big rig down State Route 4. Many local hosts will tow or drive the RV directly to Skamokawa Vista Park, Elochoman Slough Marina, or your private property, level it, hook up power and water, and walk you through every system before handing over the keys. Delivery fees typically range from $2 to $5 per mile from the host's location, with some offering free delivery within a set radius. Pro tip: use the Delivery filter on RVezy, then ask the host to set up at a riverside site so your first evening starts with Columbia River sunset views, no driving required.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Cathlamet,%20WashingtonHow far can I travel on a Cathlamet RV rental?
You've got room to roam: many Cathlamet hosts include 100 to 150 free miles per night, and some even offer RV rental with unlimited mileage for longer journeys. From Cathlamet, popular RV road trip from Cathlamet routes include Astoria, Oregon (about 28 miles west, around 45 minutes), Long Beach Peninsula (50 miles, roughly 1 hour 15 minutes), Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument (75 miles east, about 1 hour 45 minutes), Portland (75 miles, 1.5 hours), and Olympic National Park's southern entrance near Lake Quinault (about 130 miles north). Pro tip: if you're planning to loop the Cape Disappointment to Mount St. Helens scenic circle, message hosts upfront about a higher mileage package, it's almost always cheaper to pre-buy miles than to settle up afterward.
wsdot.wa.gov/travel/real-time/mapWhere should I camp during my Cathlamet RV trip?
You've got several excellent options for RV camping Cathlamet right on the Columbia River. Skamokawa Vista Park (about 7 miles west) offers 53 sites with partial and full hookups, riverside views, and year-round availability. Elochoman Slough Marina, right in Cathlamet at 500 2nd Street, has full-hookup RV sites with 30/50 amp service and waterfront sunsets. County Line Park, 8 miles east toward Longview, provides 22 electric sites with fire pits and accommodates rigs up to 35 feet. Across the river in Oregon, Fort Stevens State Park near Astoria adds beach access and historic shipwreck views. Pro tip: book Skamokawa Vista Park 2 to 3 months ahead for summer weekends, the riverside sites where you can watch cargo ships glide past Price Island go first.
parks.wa.gov/find-parksWhen is the best time to visit Cathlamet in an RV?
Late June through September is genuinely the sweet spot for a Cathlamet RV trip, with average highs in the mid-70s°F, low humidity, and the long stretch of dry weather Pacific Northwest locals live for. July and August are the driest months and best for paddling Steamboat Slough or hiking the Julia Butler Hansen Refuge. Spring (April to early June) brings blooming wildflowers and trillium, though expect rain showers and 55-65°F days. Fall salmon runs in September and October bring great fishing at Elochoman Marina. Winters are mild but very wet (40-50°F, 8-10 inches of rain monthly). Pro tip: aim for the Bald Eagle Days festival weekend in late July, downtown Cathlamet comes alive and campgrounds book up fast, so reserve your RV early.
weather.gov/pqr/I'm first time renting an RV. Is Cathlamet a good place to start?
It really is. Cathlamet is one of the most relaxed launch points in southwest Washington for first time renting an RV: traffic is light, State Route 4 along the Columbia is straight and scenic, and campgrounds are close (Elochoman Marina is less than a mile from downtown). Every RVezy host provides a hands-on walkthrough at pickup covering propane, water, the dump valve, slide-outs, and the generator, and you are never on your own thanks to 24/7 roadside support. Many hosts here also offer delivery, so you can skip driving entirely on day one. Pro tip: book a Class B campervan or small travel trailer under 25 feet for your first trip, they handle like a large SUV and park easily at Vista Park.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsWhat happens if something breaks during my Cathlamet RV trip?
You are covered. Every RVezy booking includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the protection plan, so if you get a flat on State Route 4, lock yourself out at Skamokawa Vista Park, or have a battery issue near Puget Island, one phone call gets help dispatched. For mechanical issues with appliances like the fridge or furnace, your host is your first call (most respond within minutes and many live within 20 miles of Cathlamet), and RVezy support is the safety net behind them. Pro tip: save the roadside number and your host's phone number to your contacts before you leave the driveway, cell coverage along the lower Columbia is solid in town but spotty in the hills west of Skamokawa.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I take my Cathlamet RV rental across state lines or into Canada?
Crossing into Oregon is not just allowed, it's basically expected, the Puget Island bridge connects Cathlamet to Westport, Oregon via a short free ferry across the Columbia, and Astoria is a 45-minute drive west. Most hosts also welcome trips north to Olympic National Park or east toward Idaho with no extra paperwork. Travel into Canada (British Columbia is about 6 hours north) is allowed by many hosts but you must confirm with them in advance, since insurance and protection coverage details differ for cross-border trips. Travel to Mexico is not permitted on any RVezy rental. Pro tip: message your host before booking if you want a multi-state RV road trip from Cathlamet, they'll confirm in minutes and often suggest scenic routes.
cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-goWhat should I budget for fuel on a Cathlamet RV trip?
Fuel is one of the biggest variables, but Cathlamet's flat river-route geography helps your mileage. Class B campervans average 18-22 MPG, Class C motorhomes get roughly 8-12 MPG, and Class A rigs run 6-10 MPG. Travel trailers depend on your tow vehicle but expect a 25-35% MPG hit while towing. Washington state gas prices typically run higher than the national average, so for a 3-night Cathlamet loop covering 250 miles in a Class C, plan on roughly $90-$130 in fuel. Diesel options are at the Cathlamet Chevron right on State Route 4. Pro tip: fill up in Cathlamet or Longview rather than Astoria, Oregon prices include different taxes and crossing back over the bridge for gas isn't always a savings.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I book a campground near Cathlamet?
For the best campgrounds near Cathlamet, aim to reserve 2 to 4 months ahead for summer weekends and 2 to 3 weeks ahead for weekdays or shoulder season. Skamokawa Vista Park accepts reservations through its Port District 2 website and fills its riverside sites first, especially during July and August. Elochoman Slough Marina takes reservations by phone (they don't book online), so call early. Washington State Parks like Lewis and Clark and Fort Stevens (across the river in Oregon) open reservations 9 months in advance through the official Washington State Parks reservation system. Pro tip: for Bald Eagle Days in late July or the Wahkiakum County Fair in mid-August, book the moment your trip dates are confirmed, locals book a year out.
washington.goingtocamp.com/What are driving conditions like around Cathlamet?
Cathlamet is one of the easier places in Washington to drive an RV. State Route 4 (the Ocean Beach Highway) is a paved two-lane road with gentle curves along the Columbia River, light traffic, and turnouts for slower vehicles. There are no mountain passes between Cathlamet and Longview or Astoria. Watch for fog in early mornings and logging trucks during weekdays. Winter rains can pool on the road in the Grays River valley, so reduce speed. Cathlamet has tight downtown streets, so larger rigs should park near Elochoman Marina rather than the historic main street. Pro tip: time your drive west toward Astoria for late afternoon, the lighting on the Columbia is unreal.
wsdot.wa.gov/travel/real-timeWhat amenities will I find at Cathlamet area campgrounds?
Most campgrounds near Cathlamet offer the essentials you need for a comfortable trip. Skamokawa Vista Park has 30-amp electric and water hookups, restrooms with hot showers, a dump station, potable water fill, picnic tables, fire pits, Wi-Fi, and even cable TV at some sites. Elochoman Slough Marina offers 30/50 amp electric, water, a dump station, and accommodates rigs up to 80 feet. County Line Park has electric hookups with shared water spigots. For dumping and filling water between stops, the Cathlamet Chevron on State Route 4 has RV services, and Vista Park sells bulk water for $5 per 50 gallons. Pro tip: top off fresh water and dump tanks at Vista Park before heading west, services thin out past Skamokawa toward Naselle.
wahport2.org/What's typically included inside a Cathlamet RV rental?
Cathlamet RV rentals come surprisingly well-equipped. Whether you choose a campervan rental Cathlamet style Class B or a larger motorhome rental Cathlamet families love, expect real beds (queen or king in larger rigs, plus convertible dinettes), a kitchen with fridge, stove, microwave, and sink, an indoor bathroom with toilet and shower, climate control with furnace and air conditioning, and DOT-approved seatbelts for travel passengers. Many rentals also include a TV, propane generator, outdoor speakers, and Wi-Fi hotspots. Hosts often include linens, kitchenware, and a coffee maker so you don't have to pack the kitchen. Pro tip: check each listing's amenities tab carefully, and message the host if you need something specific like a kid's booster seat or extra propane for fall trips when nights drop into the 40s.
nhtsa.gov/road-safety/recreational-vehicle-safetyWhat add-ons and options do Cathlamet hosts offer?
Cathlamet hosts are known for being flexible with extras. Common add-ons include delivery and setup ($2-$5 per mile), bedding and towel packages ($25-$50 per trip), kitchen kits, generator fuel, bike racks, kayaks (a popular pick given the Columbia River and Steamboat Slough paddling), camp chairs, outdoor mats, and even propane firepits. Mileage policies typically run 100-150 free miles per night with $0.30-$0.50 per additional mile, and some hosts offer flat-rate unlimited mileage packages for week-long trips. Pickup is usually at the host's home or property, typically between 1pm and 4pm, with drop-off by 11am. Pro tip: ask about a kayak add-on, putting in at Vista Park or Skamokawa Creek and paddling the Lewis and Clark National Wildlife Refuge sloughs is the quintessential Cathlamet experience.
fws.gov/refuge/lewis-and-clarkHow does payment and the security deposit work?
Payment is handled entirely through RVezy, so you never exchange cash or cards with the host, your booking total is charged securely to your credit or debit card at confirmation. A refundable security deposit (typically $500 to $1,500 depending on the RV class) is pre-authorized on your card a few days before pickup and released within a week of return assuming no damage or policy issues. To avoid any deposit hiccups: do a thorough walkthrough video at pickup and drop-off, return the RV with fuel and tanks at the agreed levels, and stay within your mileage allowance. Pro tip: dump and refill the fresh water tank at Skamokawa Vista Park before returning, hosts almost always charge a dump-out fee that is far higher than the $5 Vista Park asks.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksWhat's a local insider tip for a Cathlamet RV trip?
Here is the move locals love: take the Wahkiakum County Ferry from Cathlamet to Westport, Oregon. It is one of the last operating ferries on the lower Columbia River, runs throughout the day, and turns a routine drive into a short mini-cruise across the Columbia. Then loop west to Astoria and back across the 4-mile-long Astoria-Megler Bridge for a memorable family RV trip Cathlamet day-loop. Pro tip: check the ferry's current schedule, fares, and RV length limits before you go (longer rigs may need to take the bridge route instead), and bring binoculars, you will often spot bald eagles, sea lions, and ocean-bound freighters mid-crossing.
co.wahkiakum.wa.us/213/FerryNearby cities with campgrounds
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