I knew going into it that this wouldn't compare with a state park. We found it difficult to maneuver into our pull through site, plus the way the utilities are our electric cord wouldn't reach. Owner/Managers are very picky about how you park your tow rig. Spots are really packed in. Mostly permanent residents, clean, but not conducive to kids as they couldn't ride bikes or play ball. Was cheaper and more comfortable than a hotel.
I wrote a somewhat critical review in July. I also complained to the Port of Benton, who is presently managing the park. I received a 2 night complimentary visit, which I used in October. I am very pleased to report that the grounds were impeccable. The park was patrolled on a regular basis by management, and we were greeted by the caretaker. A wonderful improvement, and I am happy to see such a gorgeous park being restored. Great job Port of Benton.
This is a beautiful park. The trees are lush and for the first time in 25 trips we were not awakened when the sun came up because the trees blocked out the bright light. The park was quiet, and wild blackberries were all along the shoreline. We noticed that park personnel came through the park on a regular basis, but did nothing about campers adjacent to us who had extra vehicles obstructing the drive through the campground. This surprised us as rangers are generally really mindful in regard to vehicles not parked properly. We drove into Mossyrock to get fuel, where there was a small grocery store. We could not pick up any tv stations, but had great cell phone service, which surprised us.
This was a last minute trip for us over the Labor Day weekend. We were amazed to find a spot available. This campground is within walking distance from the town of Winthrop, and due to the traffic/parking problems in Winthrop, I consider it a real plus. We ran out of things to do in the town but could have gone rafting or mountain biking. There some shops with interesting items, small restaurants with mostly bar food, and a great bakery called the Rocking Horse Bakery. This campground is all grassy, with just a utility pole to designate spots. They have a huge laundry area and also some permanent mobile homes that they rent out. The park appeared to be a favorite of BMW motorcycle riders. The park itself was very quiet.
This is beach camping at its finest. Great park, great views, great lighthouse and beautiful beach with easy access. Also wonderful ranger programs. I plan to visit at least once a year.
This is an older park. The sites are a bit close together. The restrooms were old style. Nice , free showers. The beach is about a 1/4 mile walk from the A loop. We noted that because there are not sewer hookups in sites, the line at the dump station was usually long at check out time. Nice staff.
This park was s big disappointment. I had asked to reserve a pull through site, and apparently they don't know what a pull through site is. Also, the spot they put us in was barely long enough and so close to neighbors. There are a number of full-time manufactured units nearly, and vehicles that are parked there are a serious hindrance to safely backing into one's campsite. Really the only positive comment I have is that the restaurant is nice but the service was very slow.
This is a lovely park with some management problems. Management has shifted from the state to a private group, and the park is now handled by the Port of Benton, who appear to be doing their best to get things right. We noted that a caretaker, camp host, etc., appeared to be non-existent. There was no one to check us in, no one to make sure that our spot was vacated by check-out time, no one to deal with a dog that barked all night etc. But despite all that, this is a lovely park. I've lived within 50 miles of it for 20 years and never visited. Now that I know that the Port of Benton has taken over and plans to make positive changes, I will plan to visit more often. There are beautiful sites right on the water (32-30-28-26). Also interesting groups of three sites together, but you'd only want to be in one of those if you were camping in a group--I would hate to be in one of those next to a stranger. Also, no grocery stores, gas stations, etc. nearby. There is Columbia Crest Winery about 15 miles away, and they do sell snacks but mostly wine.
A very well-kept park with a ranger on site who won't put up with any nonsense. My only complaint is that reservations are not accepted. We arrived early on a Friday and had virtually one site to choose from.