Best Camping Beaches in Washington

Rialto Beach is a stunning coastal destination located within Olympic National Park, near La Push, Washington. It is renowned for its picturesque pebble shores, driftwood, and tidepools, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy spotting wildlife such as seals, otters, and bald eagles, and during summer, gray whales can be seen migrating. The beach is accessible via a short path, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Rialto Beach offers a serene environment perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Its proximity to the Quileute Indian Reservation adds a rich cultural dimension to the area.
The beach's unique combination of natural beauty and accessibility makes it an ideal location for family outings and romantic getaways alike.

Kalaloch Beach, located within Olympic National Park, offers a serene and rugged coastline experience. It is nestled between a lowland forest and a marine sanctuary, providing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The beach is known for its iconic driftwood logs and the 'Tree of Life,' a root-exposed tree that has become a symbol of resilience. Visitors can enjoy activities like beachcombing, bird watching, and exploring nearby attractions such as the Hoh Rainforest and Ruby Beach. The area is perfect for those seeking a mix of nature, tranquility, and adventure.
The beach is accessible via Highway 101, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the Olympic Peninsula. Kalaloch Lodge, situated nearby, offers comfortable accommodations with stunning ocean views, adding to the allure of this natural haven.
Whether you're interested in hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply relaxing by the ocean, Kalaloch Beach provides an unforgettable experience amidst the beauty of Olympic National Park.

Cape Disappointment State Park, located at the southern end of the Long Beach Peninsula in Washington, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park is known for its stunning ocean views, two lighthouses, and extensive hiking trails that weave through old-growth forests and along the coastline. Visitors can explore the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which provides insights into the area's rich history, particularly the journey of the famous explorers. The park's diverse landscapes include freshwater lakes, saltwater marshes, and two miles of ocean beach, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The park's name, Cape Disappointment, was given by Captain John Meares after his failed attempt to find the Columbia River in 1788. Today, it is a popular destination for those seeking to connect with nature and history. The scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the mouth of the Columbia River add to the park's allure, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Pacific Northwest.

Cape Disappointment State Park is also home to Waikiki Beach, a picturesque spot that offers breathtaking views of the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse. The beach is ideal for activities like beachcombing, surfing, and swimming, though ocean conditions can be hazardous, and swimming is generally not advised.

Grayland Beach State Park is a stunning coastal destination located in Grayland, Washington, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The park spans 581 acres and features a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for 7.5 miles, perfect for activities like beachcombing, surfing, and swimming.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The park also provides excellent camping facilities with full-hookup sites, yurts, and primitive options, making it a favorite among families and RV enthusiasts.
The area is rich in history, originally inhabited by the Shoalwater Bay and Chehalis Indian Tribes, adding a layer of cultural significance to the natural beauty of the park.

Cypress Head Recreation Site, located in Indian Village, Washington, offers a serene beach experience with a beautiful shoreline stretching about a mile, featuring golden sand. The site is ideal for those seeking a tranquil coastal getaway. However, it appears there might be some confusion with another location, as the primary details provided relate to a different Cypress Head on Cypress Island in the San Juan Islands. The San Juan Islands location is known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and scenic views, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is rich in wildlife and offers opportunities for kayaking and camping.

The beach at Cypress Head Recreation Site in Indian Village is described as having a beautiful shoreline, but specific details about its activities or amenities are limited. For those interested in the San Juan Islands' Cypress Head, it is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Both locations offer unique experiences, with the San Juan Islands providing a more rugged and natural setting, while the Indian Village site seems to focus on its picturesque beach.

Salt Creek Recreation Area is a stunning 196-acre park located near Port Angeles, Washington, offering breathtaking views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Vancouver Island. This former WWII military installation now serves as a popular spot for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The area features a mix of RV and tent sites, many with ocean views, and offers amenities like clean facilities, showers, and picnic areas. Visitors can explore tide pools, sandy beaches, and upland forests, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and families alike.
The park's history is evident in the remnants of its military past, including large casemates and other structures. It hosts various events, such as the Salt Creek Invitational cross country meet, and provides opportunities to spot marine life like whales and sea lions.
With its diverse landscapes and activities, Salt Creek Recreation Area is a must-visit for those seeking outdoor adventures in a beautiful coastal setting.

Blake Island State Park is a 475-acre marine camping park located in the Puget Sound region of Washington, offering stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Seattle skyline. The park is accessible only by boat, adding to its secluded charm. It features five miles of saltwater beach shoreline, making it ideal for beachcombing and water activities. The island is steeped in history, being an ancestral camping ground of the Suquamish Indian tribe, and legend has it that Chief Seattle was born there.

Blake Island provides a serene escape from urban life, with its thickly wooded trails and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and fishing. The park's unique cultural offerings include Indian-style salmon dinners and Northwest Native American dancing demonstrations at Tillicum Village.

The island's natural beauty, combined with its cultural significance, makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in both nature and history.

Deception Pass State Park is a stunning natural area located in Oak Harbor, Washington, spanning across Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands. It is renowned for its dramatic seascape, where the tidal flow creates powerful whirlpools and standing waves beneath the iconic Deception Pass Bridge. The park offers a mix of rugged ocean cliffs, tranquil old-growth forests, and diverse wildlife, attracting over two million visitors annually. With its rich history and diverse recreational opportunities, it is a must-visit destination for both locals and international travelers.
The park's scenic beauty includes beaches, freshwater lakes, and over 38 miles of hiking trails, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing, boating, and scuba diving, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views.
Deception Pass State Park is also steeped in history, with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) having played a significant role in its development during the 1930s. The park's CCC Interpretive Center provides insight into this history.

James Island State Park is a serene 113-acre marine park located in the San Juan Islands, Washington. It offers stunning views of the surrounding waters and islands from its high bluff along the loop trail. The park is named after Reuben James, an American naval hero, and was established in 1964. Visitors can enjoy camping, mooring, and exploring the island's natural beauty, though there is no potable water available. The park is accessible from nearby islands like Lopez and Orcas, making it a great stop for those exploring the San Juans.
The island's tranquil atmosphere and scenic trails provide an ideal setting for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. With its limited campsites and lack of modern amenities, James Island State Park is perfect for those looking for a rustic, peaceful experience.
The park's proximity to Lopez Island also allows visitors to explore the island's charming villages and amenities when needed.

Jones Island State Park, located near Deer Harbor, Washington, is a serene destination known for its beautiful shoreline and abundant wildlife. The park offers stunning views, hiking trails, and opportunities to spot deer, birds, and other wildlife. It has a rich history, having been a homestead in the past, and today it provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can enjoy the park's two miles of hiking trails, explore the remnants of a pioneer's homesite, and pick apples and pears from a historic orchard. The park is accessible by boat, making it a unique and secluded getaway.
With its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, Jones Island State Park is an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Sequim Bay State Park is a stunning 92-acre marine park located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. It offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty, set in one of the driest microclimates west of the Cascade Mountains. The park features a 1.5-mile beach with light-colored sand, perfect for beachcombing, swimming, and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, and hiking along the Olympic Discovery Trail, which passes through the park. The park's campground is open year-round, offering campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs, making it an ideal destination for both day visits and extended stays.

The park's location near Sequim provides easy access to local amenities and attractions, including the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge and the charming town of Sequim. The area is known for its wildlife viewing opportunities, with a variety of marine and bird life. Overall, Sequim Bay State Park offers a tranquil and adventurous experience amidst nature's beauty.

The park's history and name are also interesting, as 'Sequim' was once believed to mean 'quiet waters,' though this translation has been disputed. Today, it is a place to enjoy peaceful surroundings and engage in various outdoor activities.

Fort Flagler State Park is located on the northern tip of Marrowstone Island in Washington, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park spans 784 acres, surrounded by 19,100 feet of saltwater shoreline, providing stunning views of the Olympic and Cascade Mountains. It was originally established as a military fort in the late 19th century to protect the entrance to Puget Sound. Today, it features historic gun batteries, military buildings, and offers a range of activities such as hiking, kayaking, and camping.
Visitors can enjoy the park's diverse wildlife, including bald eagles and deer, and explore its extensive trails and beaches. The park is also close to the charming town of Port Townsend, making it an ideal destination for those interested in both nature and history.
The park's scenic views and historical landmarks make it a popular spot for family outings and educational visits alike.

Ocean City State Park is a picturesque destination located on the north spit of Grays Harbor, Washington. The park offers a serene oceanfront experience with almost 3000 feet of shoreline along the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its dense thickets of shore pine and dunes, providing a unique landscape for exploration. The park's history dates back to its establishment in 1962, and it has been a popular spot for beach activities and camping ever since. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including beachcombing, birdwatching, and clamming. The park is also part of the Seashore Conservation Area, which aims to preserve coastal beaches for public recreation.

The surrounding area includes communities like Ocean Shores, which offers additional amenities and attractions for visitors. The park's proximity to these communities makes it an ideal base for exploring the broader region. With its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Ocean City State Park is a must-visit for those seeking a tranquil coastal experience.

The park's location at North America's active margin, where the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate meets the continent, adds a fascinating geological dimension to its natural beauty. This unique setting contributes to the area's diverse wildlife and ecosystems.