Camping on the Beach: Ocean Shores Washington
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Ocean Shore Camping on the Beach
Ocean Shores, Washington, located along the stunning coast of Washington, is the perfect place for those looking to experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. With miles of sandy beaches and easy access to nearby parks, it's an ideal destination for beachgoers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. In Ocean Shores, camping on the beach is an amazing experience
Aerial View of Ocean Beach
What to Expect at Ocean Shores Beach
Ocean Shores Beach, located on the westernmost edge of the Washington coast, is a vast stretch of soft, sandy shores framed by the beautiful Pacific Ocean. It offers more than just a beach experience—Ocean Shores is a town that combines small-town charm with a lively coastal atmosphere, making it a favorite destination for visitors and locals alike.
The town of Ocean Shores is nestled between Grays Harbor to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, with State Route 115 serving as the main roadway connecting it to nearby cities like South Bend and Olympic National Park. The landscape is characterized by windswept sand dunes, pockets of cottonwood trees, and aquatic plant communities that thrive in the coastal environment. During low tide, the beach expands to reveal tide pools brimming with marine life such as crabs, small fish, and occasionally a playful marine mammal. Surf fishing is also a popular pastime, with anglers casting lines into the Pacific in hopes of catching dinner.
The town itself has a quaint yet bustling feel, particularly in the summer months when tourists flock to the beach. You'll find cozy beach-themed motels, like La Mer NW, and guest rooms with unobstructed views of Westport just across the water. There are plenty of small shops, art galleries, and local eateries that serve up everything from fresh seafood to casual local eateries that serve up everything from fresh seafood to casual beach fare. Jack's Country Store and local grocery shops provide essentials for campers and day-trippers alike. The town has a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere where locals are friendly and often ready to share recommendations for the best surf fishing spots or a quiet place to enjoy the sunset.
The town’s close proximity to Olympic National Park makes it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the diverse ecosystems of Washington's coastal parks. Despite its popularity with tourists, Ocean Shores retains a small-town charm where community events, live music, and festivals add to the lively atmosphere, particularly during the summer weekends.
The surrounding landscape of Ocean Shores is a mix of sand dunes, forest lands, and wetland areas. It offers an abundance of outdoor activities and scenic beauty, making it a perfect place to experience the rugged charm of the Washington coast. Whether you come for the beach, the town, or the wide-open natural spaces, it's a great place to enjoy nature. In Ocean Shores, camping on the beach, blends relaxation with adventure, providing something for everyone.
Must Have Products For Ocean Lovers
Further Reading
→ Ultimate Guide to the Best Beach Camping in California
→ Where are the best beaches to swim in the Ocean in Cancun?
Camping and RV Options Near Ocean Shores
"At the beach - time you enjoyed wasting, is not wasted."
1. Ocean City State Park
- On or near the beach? Near the beach (short walk).
Accommodates tents and RVs? Yes, both. - Hookups? No full hookups; only water available at certain sites.
- How many sites? 149 campsites.
- Google star rating? 4.4 stars.
- Do you have to register? Yes, registration required via Washington State Parks.
- Sand description: Soft sandy beach with gentle dunes.
Ocean City State Park is a popular camping destination offering a short walk to the Pacific Ocean. While the campsites don’t have full hookups, the park features picnic tables, fire pits, and dump stations for campers. The beach is wide and sandy, ideal for beach combing, kite flying, and relaxing by the shore.
Washington State Parks
2. Pacific Beach State Park
- On or near the beach? Ocean Shore Camping on the Beach.
- Accommodates tents and RVs? Yes, both.
- Hookups? Yes, partial hookups (water and electric).
- How many sites? 64 campsites.
- Google star rating? 4.7 stars.
- Do you have to register? Yes, registration required via Washington State Parks.
- Sand description: Soft and fine sand, perfect for beach activities.
Pacific Beach State Park offers stunning oceanfront camping with easy access to the beach, where campers can enjoy unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. This campground is particularly popular with RV campers due to the available hookups and its proximity to the water. The soft, sandy beach is ideal for long walks, and the park's amenities include clean restrooms, fire pits, and nearby dining options in town.
3. Screamin’ Eagle Campground
- On or near the beach? Near the beach (short drive).
- Accommodates tents and RVs? Yes, both.
- Hookups? Yes, full hookups (water, electric, and sewer).
- How many sites? 48 RV spaces.
- Google star rating? 4.3 stars.
- Do you have to register? Yes, registration is recommended.
- Sand description: Not directly on the sand but nearby sandy beaches are soft.
Screamin’ Eagle Campground is one of the closest RV parks to Ocean Shores, making it a convenient base for exploring the beach town. The campground offers full hookups for RVs and provides easy access to the town’s amenities, including grocery stores and local markets. While the campground itself isn’t on the beach, it’s just a short drive to sandy shores and fresh seafood markets in Ocean Shores. And horses are welcomed.
Screamin' Eagle Campground
4. Copalis Beach Campgrounds
- On or near the beach? Near the beach (within walking distance).
- Accommodates tents and RVs? Primarily tents; RV sites are limited.
- Hookups? No hookups available.
- How many sites? Varies by campground; typically 15-20 sites.
- Google star rating? 4.5 stars (general area).
- Do you have to register? Some campgrounds require registration.
- Sand description: Soft, slightly rugged in places with driftwood.
Copalis Beach Campgrounds offer a quieter and more secluded camping experience than the larger parks near Ocean Shores. Though more primitive, these campsites are ideal for those who prefer dry camping in a natural setting, with the beach just a short walk away. The soft sand combined with the presence of driftwood makes for a scenic and peaceful environment.
5. Quinault Marina & RV Resort
- On or near the beach? Near the beach (within walking distance).
- Accommodates tents and RVs? Yes, both.
- Hookups? Yes, full hookups (water, electric, sewer).
- How many sites? 140 sites.
- Google star rating? 4.2 stars.
- Do you have to register? Yes, registration required.
- Sand description: Soft sandy beaches nearby.
Quinault Marina & RV Resort offers a full-service camping experience with RV sites that include full hookups. Located just a short walk from the beach, the resort is a great choice for those looking to enjoy water-recreation havenslike Grays Harbor while still having access to modern amenities. The nearby beach features soft sand, perfect for beach walks, and the resort has facilities like clean restrooms and a dump station.
6. Ocean Breeze RV Resort
- On or near the beach? Near the beach (short drive).
- Accommodates tents and RVs? Primarily RVs; tent camping is limited
- Hookups? Yes, full hookups (water, electric, sewer).
- How many sites? 200 RV spaces.
- Google star rating? 4.3 stars.
- Do you have to register? Yes, registration required.
- Sand description: Not directly on the sand; nearby beaches are soft and sandy.
Ocean Breeze RV Resort is a spacious RV park with full hookups, making it a great place for long-term campers or those looking to explore the Washington coast. While it’s not directly on the beach, the Pacific Ocean is just a short drive away, and the resort features picnic tables, fire pits, and potable water for guests. This RV camping option is perfect for those seeking a balance between beach access and resort amenities.
KM Resorts
7. Grayland Beach State Park
- On or near the beach? Ocean Shore Camping on the Beach.
- Accommodates tents and RVs? Yes, both.
- Hookups? Yes, partial hookups (water and electric).
- How many sites? 63 campsites.
- Google star rating? 4.7 stars.
- Do you have to register? Yes, registration required via Washington State Parks.
- Sand description: Soft, wide, and ideal for walking.
Grayland Beach State Park is located south of Ocean Shores and offers some of the best beach camping on the Washington coast. The park’s RV sites and tent sites are nestled in the dunes, providing easy access to miles of beach. The soft sand and wide-open spaces make it an ideal spot for surf fishing, beachcombing, and relaxing by the water.
Washington State Parks
Colorful Coastal Art
"Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air."
Further Reading
→ Moving to the Beach: 15 Good Reasons Beyond Sand and Sun
→ 21 Things to Know Before Moving to Myrtle Beach, SC: Your Guide to Coastal Living
Popular Times to Visit Ocean Shores
The summer months are by far the busiest time to visit Ocean Shores, as the warm weather and long daylight hours make it the perfect time for outdoor activities and beach enjoyment. Holiday weekends, such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day, draw large crowds, particularly for events like the Ultimate Surf Camp, kite festivals, and live music festivals that bring a lively, festive atmosphere to the town. During these peak times, the town comes alive with families, surfers, and campers all flocking to the beach, filling campgrounds and RV parks to capacity. Despite the crowds, the miles of beach along the Pacific Ocean mean there’s always space to find a quiet place to relax, take in the ocean breeze, or explore tide pools at low tide.
Summer visitors can take advantage of the great outdoors and a wide variety of recreational opportunities, including horseback riding on the beach, surfing, jet skiing, and hiking in nearby Washington’s coastal parks. Ocean Shores also offers outdoor activities like bike rentals, go-kart racing, and even wildlife viewing in surrounding wildlife areas. For those who prefer something more relaxed, exploring the beach or visiting the local shops and restaurants can provide a break from the outdoor adventures. The summer season brings a palpable energy to the area, and many flock to Screamin’ Eagle Campground, Ocean City State Park, or Pacific Beach State Park for easy access to the beach and events. In Ocean Shores, camping on the beach will let you relax and enjoy the ocean.
Even during the busy summer weekends, Ocean Shores is known for its laid-back coastal vibe. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the unique combination of beach life and small-town charm, with plenty of activities like surf fishing, beach combing, and even fresh seafood markets to explore. It’s also worth checking out local hotspots like the Ocean Shores Convention Center, which hosts many of the special events throughout the year.
For those looking to avoid the crowds, the off-season can offer a much quieter, more peaceful experience. Fall and spring still offer mild weather, although it tends to be cooler and windier. Winter brings its own charm with the prospect of storm watching, brisk walks on the beach, and the opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Washington coast with far fewer visitors. However, planning for an off-season trip requires attention to low tide schedules and the cooler temperatures, as well as checking for any weather advisories or campground closures.
Another important factor during fire season is the possibility of statewide burn bans, which can restrict outdoor burning in fire pits and the use of charcoal briquettes. These restrictions are imposed by the Washington State Parks and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to ensure safety during the driest months. Always verify with local authorities before setting up campfires or grills, and follow guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Though quieter in the off-season, Ocean Shores still offers plenty to do. Visitors can enjoy peaceful beach walks, birdwatching, or simply bask in the solitude of the coast of Washington without the hustle and bustle of summer tourists. Campgrounds remain open during most of the year, though some amenities might be limited. It’s a great opportunity to experience the serene beauty of the area without the need to jostle for space or wait for attractions.
Whether you're planning a visit for the peak summer activities or an off-season retreat, Ocean Shores offers a range of experiences and a beautiful setting for any season. Just be sure to plan ahead, especially if you’re camping during the busy summer months, to make the most of your time at this coastal paradise.
Conclusion
Each of these camping options near Ocean Shores offers a unique experience, whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or a bustling campground with all the amenities. Be sure to plan ahead, especially during peak seasons like summer weekends, to secure your spot and enjoy everything the Washington coast has to offer. No matter the season, Ocean Shores offers a variety of activities that connect you to the natural beauty of Washington's coastal parks. Whether you're here for cold water surfing, camping at Grays Harbor , or just enjoying a quiet place by the fire, the city of Ocean Shores provides the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
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The Author: Cherie Coco
Cherie is a dedicated digital artist and writer with over a decade of experience. She write about the beach, the ocean and coastal stuff and creates beach art. Her canvases are more than just decor. They are experiences that give beach lovers a sense of peace, beauty and connection to the ocean and the shore.
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