Several camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and newer, well maintained yurts. There are two nice playground areas for children, large open areas for team sports (bring flip-flops, as there are prickly weeds in the lawn), and a narrow, sandy river beach for walking or playing. (Nota bene: This is not a place to play in the water. The Columbia River has powerful currents. Children should be closely attended at this site.)\r
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To do: The tiny town of Skamokawa has little to offer, but there is a small general store, a museum, an equipment rental shop (which prides itself on kayaking equipment and lessons). The store also has a deli with a limited menu. Beyond these, any real dining is twenty minutes or more by highway. Adults and children alike will enjoy watching the mamoth cargo ships bearing up- and down-river, and the sound of the wake (which will often wash over the entire beach) is peaceful and relaxing.\r
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Pros: It's a slow paced way to spend a few days, and the quiet town can be thoroughly explored in just a day. (It's a great weekend, in my book.)\r
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Cons: It's a slow paced way to spend a few days, and the quiet town can be thoroughly explored in just a day. (Not everyone's ideal getaway.) In addition, the beach succumbs to the river's tide and, though beautiful, it is submerged for some hours every day. Check the tide tables in advance of your visit, or you may miss out on the beauty of the riverfront campsites. Also, there is occasionally limited construction on-site as the campground expands; call ahead, and find out if there are any projects planned for your target dates.
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