If you crave the feeling of sand between your toes, salty air on your lips, and the sound of crashing waves, a trip to the beach is in order! Washington's ruggedly beautiful coastline is the ultimate destination if you're looking for the best camping in the state. With over 3,000 miles of coastline and so many stunning coastal campgrounds to choose from, we've put together a list of where you can go for the best beach camping in Washington.

Why Beach Camping in Washington?

Washington's beaches are dynamic ecosystems that the state takes great effort to preserve and maintain. Here's why beach camping in Washington is so special:

  • Raw, Untamed Beauty: Washington's coastline is known for its dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, tide pools, and driftwood-strewn beaches.
  • Peace and Solitude: While some beaches can get crowded, especially during the summer, it's still easy to find your own little slice of paradise along the vast coastline.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. You can spot seabirds, seals, sea lions, and even whales. Seeing a pod of orcas playing in the waves is something you'll never forget.
  • Tide Pool Exploration: Washington's beaches are home to fascinating tide pools teeming with life. Explore these miniature ecosystems at low tide to see colorful sea anemones, starfish, crabs, and other intertidal creatures.
  • Storm Watching: During the fall and winter months, the coast is a prime spot for storm watching.

Top Beach Camping Spots in Washington

For a Classic Coastal Experience:

1. Kalaloch Campground (Olympic National Park)

Where the rainforest meets the sea.

  • Why it's great: Located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Kalaloch offers stunning coastal views and easy beach access. It's the only campground in Olympic National Park that takes reservations year-round for all 168 sites.
  • What to do: Beachcomb for treasures, explore tide pools, hike through the nearby rainforest, or watch for whales migrating along the coast.
  • Best time to visit: June through September for drier weather, though the coast can be enjoyed year-round.
  • Booking information: Reservations are highly recommended and can be made six months in advance through Recreation.gov.
  • Fun fact: Kalaloch is famous for its "Tree of Life," a Sitka spruce that clings to the eroding cliffside with its roots exposed.

2. South Beach Campground (Olympic National Park)

A more rustic, first-come, first-served option.

  • Why it's great: Located just south of Kalaloch, South Beach offers a more primitive camping experience with 50 sites. It has stunning views and easy access to a long, sandy beach.
  • What to do: Enjoy long walks on the beach, build a bonfire (check for burn bans first), and watch sunsets over the Pacific.
  • Best time to visit: June through September for the best weather.
  • Booking information: First-come, first-served. Arrive early, especially during the summer, to secure a spot.

For a Secluded Getaway:

1. Second Beach (Olympic National Park)

A short hike to a breathtaking beach.

  • Why it's great: This beautiful beach requires a short hike (0.7 miles) through the forest. The trail is generally accessible, though it can be muddy. It offers 7 walk-in campsites.
  • What to do: Explore the sea stacks and tide pools, relax on the beach, and enjoy the peace and quiet.
  • Best time to visit: May through October for the best weather.
  • Booking information: Wilderness Camping Permits are required for overnight stays. Reservations can be made online through Recreation.gov. Walk-up permits may be available at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles.
  • Important note: This is a backcountry camping experience. You'll need to pack in all your gear and follow Leave No Trace principles.

2. Shi Shi Beach (Olympic National Park)

Remote spot at the northern tip of the Olympic Peninsula.

  • Why it's great: This stunning beach is part of the Olympic Wilderness Coast and requires a longer hike (about 4 miles) to reach, making it a less crowded option. It is important to note that the first two miles of the trail are on Makah Reservation, and the last two miles are in Olympic National Park.
  • What to do: Explore the tide pools at Point of the Arches, hike along the beach, and enjoy the solitude.
  • Best time to visit: May through October for the best weather.
  • Booking information: A Makah Recreation Pass is required for the Makah portion of the trail and can be purchased in Neah Bay. Wilderness Camping Permits are required for overnight stays in Olympic National Park and can be reserved online through Recreation.gov.
  • Important note: This is a backcountry camping experience. Be prepared for a longer hike and pack accordingly.

For a Family-Friendly Adventure:

1. Cape Disappointment State Park

Don't let the name fool you! This park is anything but disappointing.

  • Why it's great: This park offers a mix of beaches, lighthouses, hiking trails, and historical sites. It's a great option for families with kids as there are various interpretive programs and activities. The park features 48 full-hookup sites and 88 water and electric sites.
  • What to do: Explore the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, visit the North Head Lighthouse, walk along Waikiki Beach, or hike to Dead Man's Cove.
  • Best time to visit: May through September for the best weather.
  • Booking information: Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation system.

2. Grayland Beach State Park

Miles of sandy beach perfect for kite flying and beachcombing.

  • Why it's great: This park boasts 4,130 feet of ocean frontage and is known for its wide, sandy beach. It has 55 full-hookup sites and 43 water and electric sites.
  • What to do: Fly a kite, build a sandcastle, go beachcombing, or just relax and enjoy the ocean views.
  • Best time to visit: May through September for the best weather.
  • Booking information: Reservations can be made up to 9 months in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation system.
  • Fun fact: Grayland is known as the "Cranberry Capital of Washington."

Tips for Planning Your Beach Camping Adventure

To make the most of your beach camping trip, here are a few essential tips:

  • Book in Advance: Coastal campgrounds are popular, especially during the summer. Reserve your campsite well in advance, especially if you're planning to visit during peak season. You can use apps like Campsite Tonight to find and reserve a spot.
  • Pack for All Weather: Be prepared for rain, wind, fog, and cool temperatures, even during the summer. Layers are essential!
  • Get the Right Permits: Depending on where you're camping, you may need a Discover Pass, a Northwest Forest Pass, a National Park Pass, or a Makah Recreation Pass.
    1. Discover Pass: Required for vehicle access to state parks and recreation lands managed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife 1 (WDFW), and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.
    2. Northwest Forest Pass: Required for parking at many trailheads and day-use sites in National Forests throughout Washington and Oregon.
    3. National Park Pass: Provides access to all National Park Service sites, including Olympic National Park.
    4. Makah Recreation Pass: Required for parking and day-use access on Makah tribal lands, including the trailhead for Shi Shi Beach.
  • Be Tide Aware: Check the tide tables before you go. Some beaches and trails are only accessible during low tide. You don't want to get stranded!
  • Beach Safety: Be aware of sneaker waves, rip currents, and other potential hazards. Always keep an eye on the ocean and never turn your back on the waves.
  • Campfires: Check for burn bans before starting a campfire. Use designated fire rings and keep fires small and contained. Make sure you completely extinguish your fire before leaving.
  • Leave No Trace: Help protect Washington's beautiful coastline by packing out everything you pack in, staying on designated trails, and minimizing your impact on the environment.
  • Use Relevant Apps: Download helpful apps like Recreation.gov to book campsites and Tide Charts to check tide times. Campsite Tonight is a great option for finding and booking campsites, even at the last minute.

Ready to Embrace the Coastal Magic of Washington?

Washington offers an unparalleled beach camping experience no matter what your preferences are. From the Olympic Peninsula's rugged beauty to the southern coast's sandy shores, you'll be spoilt for choice. What're you waiting for? The sun, sand, and surf are calling!

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Published 
January 16, 2025