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Cape Disappointment
Overview
Cape Disappointment State Park is a dramatic landscape where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean in Ilwaco, Washington. Despite its name, this park offers some of the most stunning coastal views in the Pacific Northwest. Visitors are treated to rugged cliffs, old-growth forests, and expansive sandy beaches that span nearly 2,000 acres. It serves as a gateway to the historic Long Beach Peninsula, providing a rich blend of natural beauty and maritime history for every RV traveler who visits.
Location & Surroundings
Situated on the southwestern tip of Washington, the park is defined by its prime coastal location. The surroundings consist of salt-water marshes, freshwater lakes, and thick forests of spruce and hemlock. The crashing waves against the headlands create a powerful atmosphere, making it a premier spot for winter storm watching. The nearby town of Ilwaco offers a charming harbor atmosphere, while the proximity to the Pacific ensures fresh sea air and constant natural soundtracks throughout your stay.
Amenities & Park Features
The park is well-equipped for RVers, offering numerous sites that accommodate different rig sizes. Travelers can find full-hookup sites as well as sites with water and electricity. Essential facilities include:
- Clean restrooms and coin-operated showers
- A convenient dump station for RV sanitation
- Individual fire rings and picnic tables at each site
The park's layout encourages a sense of privacy while maintaining easy access to the various trailheads and beach entry points. Large pull-through sites are also available for those navigating bigger rigs.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
History and adventure await at every turn within the park boundaries. You can explore the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which sits high on a cliff overlooking the ocean. The park is home to two iconic structures: the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse and the North Head Lighthouse, both offering incredible photo opportunities. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy miles of hiking trails, clamming on the beach, or fishing in the surf. Waikiki Beach is a local favorite for its calm waters and views of the lighthouse.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for history buffs and nature photographers who want to capture the raw power of the Washington coast. It is a perfect destination for families seeking an educational yet adventurous getaway where children can learn about exploration and maritime heritage. Because of its varied terrain and well-maintained facilities, it also suits outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and beachcombing. If you prefer a rustic, immersive environment over a paved urban resort, this coastal gem will perfectly fit your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Nati
As you have likely heard, you won't be disappointed... unless it is a cold wet rainy PNW day and you dressed wrong. So, dress right and have fun - whatever for the weather (good luck, its always changing. Personally, rain jacket and pants stay in the car.) Of course, I was lucky to be there on a lovely sunny day 😛
Desiree Mendenhall Squirrel
Cape Dissappintment Coast guard base has an annual memorial for all those lost. The beauty of the base, the the wildlife, and each and every one of the coast guards men and women make this an event I attend every year. It is an honor
Shubhro Banerjee
This state park is a hidden gem in Washington. The beach is very beautiful, with sandy shores, stunning views, lighthouse in the backdrop, and easy access to the waterfront. Lots of jelly fish wash up to the shore - something unique. The state park has several fun hikes. The ones worth mention are the hikes to the Dead Man’s Cove and the one leading all the way up to the Lighthouse. Dead Man’s Cove offers some amazing secluded views, and the hike up to this spot is fun and moderate. The hike leading up to the Lighthouse tends to get a little steep towards the end, but is worth it. The views from the base of the Lighthouse are breathtaking. Lots of natural beauty, variety of birds, and sounds of nature to sit back and enjoy from your campsite. We stayed in one of the log cabins and had a great experience. Our cabin was very well maintained, had fully functional heaters, electrical points, and some additional furniture. Just like any other log cabin, you’d need to bring along your bed supplies to make it comfortably to the bunk beds. The only thing we didnt like was the close proximity of the other camp sites. It offered very little privacy. There are several dining options in the area. We went to the Salt Pub and had a very good experience. The food and drinks were great, hosts very welcoming. Overall, I’d highly recommend this state park, and the camp sites - its a nature lover’s delight.
That Nerdy Goth Girl
Late on my review but checking in was easy, the man offered me better spots that opened up if i wanted and it wasn’t too hard to find my tent site by the lake. Only problems I would say I had is the raccoons definitely have attitude and will square up to ya. They tried to get in my tent all night. Had 5 of them. The ground was horribly uneven and hard so definitely have a cot or air mattress. I was only able to see one light house and deadman cove. Definitely stop by deadman cove!
David Carr
Don't miss this beautiful park, especially on a sunny and clear day. The views of the mouth of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean are delightful. The Lewis and Clark Museum does a wonderful job of describing the journey they took and challenges they faced, the movie is well done. There are restrooms in the museum and picnic tables in several areas. Enjoy!
Quincy Rowe
Went here for the first time recently despite our many previous visits to the Long Beach peninsula. We had our Discovery Pass (either get a $10 pass or better yet get the $30 annual pass) so we explored all the "nooks and crannies"of this special and unique park including Cape Disappointment Light House, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, Bell's View Overlook, Beard's Hollow Overlook, and Waikiki Beach! Plenty of parking throughout the park on our trip during a Thursday in early August. The weather was nice and cool but definitely windy in some spots along the coast.
Jennifer Allison
This place is definitely worth visiting. I hiked the North Head Trailhead, which is 3 miles out and back with an average of a 500ft elevation gain. It is a moderate trail, with a lot of increases and decreases along the way. The forest views are stunning and from one vantage you can view the sea. I also did the easy walk out to North Head Lighthouse, and guests can book to stay in one of the former keeper’s residences. I did not get to hike out to Cape Disappointment because parking is very small at the trail head. I think there is another way to access it by trail, but after 4 hours of hiking, I was all set. I would say get there early to park if there is a specific place you want to visit and if you aren’t camping already in the park. I will be back! I have to get to Deadman’s Cove and Cape Disappointment.
Christina Klarenbach-Harris
We had a great time camping here. We stayed in site C 167 it was a really nice spot with a quick pathway to the beach. (166 & 167 would be 2 great spots together) The campground was pretty full but stayed relatively quiet. Clean restrooms but a bit small for the amount of people it had to service. Lots of great hiking trails throughout the campground. 2 lighthouses & lots of great history to see & read about. I would definitely recommended Cape Disappointment if your looking for a beautiful campground with lots to do. Also it's a great place to bring your bike & dog.