Cape Disappointment Campground
Explore historic lighthouses, dramatic coastlines, and lush forests at Cape Disappointment Campground, a gem on the Washington coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Cape Disappointment Campground
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic lighthouses, dramatic coastlines, and lush forests at Cape Disappointment Campground, a gem on the Washington coast.
"One of the best State Parks we ever stayed at, with big, comfortable, and clean spots."
🔒 Secure Your Food from Raccoons
Raccoons are bold! Keep all food, even snacks, in your vehicle or a secure container.
☔ Pack Waterproof Gear
Weather can be unpredictable; rain, hail, and even snow are possible. Be prepared!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cape Disappointment Lighthouse
Cape Disappointment State Park
Iconic sentinel guarding the Columbia River mouth, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Deadman's Cove
Cape Disappointment State Park
A dramatic, cove-like beach that feels like a pirate's hidden treasure spot, perfect for exploration and photos.
Discovery Trail
Cape Disappointment State Park
An incredible paved trail perfect for biking or walking, connecting to Long Beach and offering access to lighthouses and jetties.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Wildlife Encounters
Campground Loop Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔒 Secure Your Food from Raccoons
Raccoons are bold! Keep all food, even snacks, in your vehicle or a secure container.
☔ Pack Waterproof Gear
Weather can be unpredictable; rain, hail, and even snow are possible. Be prepared!
🥾 Explore the Discovery Trail
This paved trail is perfect for biking or walking to nearby attractions.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventures
Cape Disappointment is very dog-friendly, making it great for pet owners.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔒 Secure Your Food from Raccoons
Raccoons are bold! Keep all food, even snacks, in your vehicle or a secure container.
☔ Pack Waterproof Gear
Weather can be unpredictable; rain, hail, and even snow are possible. Be prepared!
🥾 Explore the Discovery Trail
This paved trail is perfect for biking or walking to nearby attractions.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventures
Cape Disappointment is very dog-friendly, making it great for pet owners.
🏕️ Choose Campsite Loops Wisely
Loops C & D offer more space and privacy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cape Disappointment Campground's spacious and clean sites, beautiful beaches, and proximity to attractions like lighthouses and Deadman's Cove. However, many warn of aggressive raccoons that can easily steal food, and some sites in Loop D require better maintenance. The unpredictable weather also necessitates preparedness.
"The campgrounds r pretty big and nice. U can rent a cabin or a yurt or u can put up a tent. Has a nice beach ( don’t swim ). Also u can hike to a light house. Has a museum near by about Luis and Clark. The whole camp area is really big. Nice to explore. We rented a yurt nice and cozy. Also a tip bring a sleeping bag it gets to cold at night. Another thing if u r going with tent bring a waterproof tent cuz when we went there it was raining, hailing, and even snowing a little bit too. Also bring waterproof clothes."
Rita Potrebich
"One of the best State Parks we ever stayed at. The park in general and spots are big comfortable and clean"
Pavel Belev
"I booked 2 campsites in loop D near Lake O ‘ Neil in Cape Disappointment state park in January. My camping experience was ruined because of the mess created by raccoons. We reached our campsite after sunset and kept a bag of unopened chips on the picnic table before we started setting up the tents. In less than 5 min of our arrival the raccoon stole the bag of chips and tried to escape. So it was clear that we couldn’t have any food outside. That was a bummer. I had called the park to check if Loop D sites were operating and had no issues. It would have been helpful if the park office warned us of raccoons attacking campsites. We would have better prepared ourselves. Even after no food was kept outside while we were sitting by the campfire the raccoons were roaming the campsite multiple times. So we couldn’t be relaxed and always had to be vigilant of their presence. My request to the park is please put up signs to be aware of raccoons to not take out food even when you are present at your campsite. All campsites in loop D are not well maintained. The one good part was washrooms were clean with hot water and hot showers. Overall the loop D campsites need a lot of maintenance for safety of campers."
Meeta Pandit
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cape Disappointment Campground is located in Ilwaco, Washington, on the Long Beach Peninsula. It's accessible by car, typically via US-101. Many visitors arrive by driving their own vehicles or RVs.
Public transportation options directly to the campground are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle for easy access and exploration of the surrounding areas.
From Seattle, you'll typically take I-5 South towards Portland, then US-101 West towards the Long Beach Peninsula. The drive is scenic but can take several hours.
The closest major airports are Portland International Airport (PDX) in Oregon and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) in Washington. From either, you'll need to arrange ground transportation.
The drive from Portland, Oregon, to Cape Disappointment Campground is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and your specific route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Washington State Discover Pass is required for day-use access to Cape Disappointment State Park. If you are camping, your camping fees typically cover park access.
Camping fees vary depending on the type of accommodation (tent site, RV site, yurt, cabin) and the season. It's best to check the official Washington State Parks website for current pricing.
Yes, advance reservations are highly recommended, especially for summer and holidays. You can book through the Washington State Parks reservation system.
Cape Disappointment State Park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like visitor centers or museums may have seasonal hours. Campground access is typically 24/7 for registered campers.
Yes, a Discover Pass is required for day-use visitors. You can purchase a day pass at designated locations within the park or online.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include visiting the two lighthouses, hiking trails like the Discovery Trail, exploring Deadman's Cove, and visiting the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. +1
While there's a beach, swimming is generally not recommended due to strong currents and hazardous conditions. It's better for exploring and beachcombing.
Yes, the Discovery Trail is paved and relatively flat, making it great for families. Shorter trails around the lighthouses are also accessible.
Absolutely! Cape Disappointment State Park is very dog-friendly, allowing pets on most trails and in many areas.
The park features historic military batteries from the early 20th century and is adjacent to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, detailing their expedition.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The campground itself does not have on-site restaurants. You'll need to bring your own food and cooking supplies or drive to nearby towns like Ilwaco or Long Beach for dining options.
Ilwaco and Long Beach offer a variety of dining, from casual seafood shacks to cafes and restaurants. You can find fresh local fare.
Campfires are typically allowed in designated fire rings, but check current fire restrictions with the park, especially during dry seasons.
It's crucial to store food properly due to active wildlife, especially raccoons. Use bear-resistant containers or keep all food inside your vehicle.
Yes, there are grocery stores in Ilwaco and Long Beach where you can purchase food and camping supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouses, Deadman's Cove, the rugged coastline, and the dramatic King Tides during storms offer incredible photographic opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light. Stormy weather can also create dramatic, moody shots.
Drone usage is subject to Washington State Parks regulations. It's essential to check the park's specific rules regarding drone operation before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Yes, photography of the lighthouses is encouraged. Be mindful of any restricted areas or private property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure you pack plenty of snacks and drinks, but be extremely diligent about securing all food from raccoons, as they are very active and can be a nuisance if not managed. Consider booking a yurt or cabin for added comfort and protection from the elements, especially if you have younger children. The clean restrooms with hot showers are a definite plus for families.
🏕️ Budget Travelers
While RV sites with full hookups are available, they come at a higher cost. If you're traveling in an RV, consider if you truly need full hookups to save money. Remember to factor in the cost of a Discover Pass for day-use access if you plan to visit the park without camping.
The park's natural beauty and historical sites offer immense value for the cost of admission and camping fees. 🐶 Pet Owners
This means your dog can explore the Discovery Trail, wander along the beaches (on leash), and enjoy the natural surroundings alongside you. Remember to always keep your dog on a leash to respect other visitors and protect local wildlife. While the park is dog-friendly, it's still essential to be mindful of wildlife, especially raccoons, and ensure your pet doesn't disturb them or get into any trouble.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Lighthouses
+1Visitors can hike to both lighthouses, with trails ranging in difficulty. The walk to the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse is relatively short and rewarding, while the path to North Head Lighthouse offers more expansive ocean vistas. Many visitors find the sheer scale and historical significance of these structures incredibly impressive.
Remember to check the operating hours for any interpretive centers or tours associated with the lighthouses, as these can vary seasonally. The views from the lighthouse grounds are spectacular year-round, making them a must-visit for any photographer or history enthusiast.
Wildlife and Nature
+1However, visitors should be aware of the park's resident wildlife, especially raccoons. These clever creatures are known for their boldness and can easily raid unattended campsites. It's crucial to store all food securely in vehicles or bear-resistant containers, even when you are present at your campsite.
Beyond the coast, the park features lush forests and trails that are perfect for hiking and exploring. The Discovery Trail is a popular paved path that connects various park attractions and extends to Long Beach, offering a pleasant way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Camping Experience
The campground is situated within the state park, providing easy access to its numerous attractions. Washrooms are generally clean and equipped with hot water and showers. Despite the amenities, campers should be prepared for potential challenges. As mentioned, raccoons are a significant concern, and strict food storage is paramount.
For those seeking a unique stay, renting a yurt or cabin can provide a cozy and comfortable experience, especially during cooler months. However, even in these accommodations, securing food from wildlife remains important.
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