We’re excited to bring you an insider’s perspective from Meredith, the Gift Shop Manager for the Astoria Column, and the Clatsop County Historical Society.

In the summer of 2023, my husband and I packed up our belongings, purchased a fifth wheel RV and said good-bye to Virginia as we embarked on a cross-country adventure to Oregon, where Astoria would become our new home. We stayed at dozens of state parks and locally owned campgrounds along the way. Out of all of them, these three parks in the Astoria and Warrenton area are some of our favorites!

Here is everything you need to know before packing up your RV and hitting the road. 
Don't have an RV? No problem! All three of these parks have lodging options like cabins or yurts.


Our RV in a “perfect” spot in Fort Stevens State Park.
(All photos courtesy of Meredith Barlow-Spry except where otherwise noted.)


Fort Stevens State Park

A magical experience amongst the towering evergreen trees, with an abundance of beauty, serenity, and rich history. Located in Warrenton, Fort Stevens State Park offers a variety of camping options, from full hook-ups, to extra-long sites, and everything in between. Visit Coffenbury Lake and rent a kayak onsite, or walk the trail that leads you to the beach where the infamous Peter Iredale shipwreck is washed ashore. The Battery Russell, built during the Civil War, is also well worth a visit! There are three batteries total, and plenty of other sights for history lovers. Fort Stevens was the first state park we visited in an RV, and we loved it so much that we returned for two additional two-week stays! 

Helpful tips:
  • Be sure to check out the campground map when booking your spot; make sure it has the hookups you are looking for.
  • Bring your walking shoes or bicycles for the miles of paved paths, or try out the Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course at the historic area.
  • Book early: a park this beautiful fills up fast!
The trail around Coffenbury Lake.
 

A quiet day at the KOA in January 2024.

Astoria/Warrenton/Seaside KOA Resort

If you plan on RV camping, this KOA is a fantastic family-friendly option! Located in Warrenton, right across the street from Fort Stevens State Park, this place has it all: 50-amp hook-ups, a Kamp K9 Dog Park, mini golf, a camp store, events for all ages - the list goes on! The sites are spacious and well-maintained. The staff is excellent and helps you feel right at home. We camped here on two separate occasions, and even called this place “home” in the off-season for several months. 

Helpful tips:
  • There are coin-operated laundry facilities onsite, which is a plus while camping.
  • There is a good chance you will see a herd of elk, especially in the mornings. Keep a safe distance and make sure pets are always on a leash.
  • Enjoy family fun with both an indoor and outdoor pool, rec room and activity building, plus themed activity weekends.

Kamp K9 Dog Park in the KOA, with a herd of elk in the distance.
 

Lewis & Clark Golf & RV Park

Nestled in a quiet area, Lewis & Clark RV Park is adjacent to Astoria and a short drive to surrounding sites, such as the Lewis & Clark National Historical Park and the Astoria Column! This well-maintained campground offers a variety of sites including a unique “super site,” and can accommodate even the largest rigs - up to 90 feet long! There are also laundry facilities onsite and a dog walking area.

Helpful tips:
  • If arriving from Astoria, travel around the perimeter of town (Hwy 30 to Hwy 202 to Business 101 ) rather than taking a large RV over the steep hills on 8th or 16th streets. Here's a map with helpful routes for oversized vehicles.
  • Walk from your campsite to enjoy fish and chips at the Ship Out - a food cart with greenhouse seating or book a zipline tour with nearby High Life Adventures for a fun way to see the area!
  • Bring your golf clubs for the Par 36, 9-hole course.
Photo courtesy of Lewis & Clark Golf & RV Park

Come see us up at the Astoria Column on your next trip to Astoria and Warrenton, and let me know which campsite is your favorite - here or far!

Happy Camping! 

Meredith
 

Whether you’re camping or staying at a hotel, Astoria and Warrenton has plenty to keep you as busy as you want to be for your entire stay. Luxuriate at a local day spa, learn about the local region at a museum, or take in a show.
 
We’ve got plenty of places to stay during your trip beyond those listed above. Explore our full list of lodging options.