Cape Disappointment State Park
Washington State
About Cape Disappointment State Park
Rugged headlands jutting dramatically into the Pacific Ocean create a wild coastal landscape where two rivers meet the sea, offering lighthouse views and storm-watching opportunities. Accessible trails wind through windswept dunes, sandy beaches, and coastal forest with excellent birdwatching.
Reviews
Lovely views all around! Roads were reasonably well-kept and easy to navigate for most vehicles. Some pretty patchy areas that may not be fun on a motorcycle, so if you're a rider keep your eyes out. The North Head Lighthouse (pictured) was a very easy walk to get to, fully pathed and only gentle slopes. All the parking areas had easy turnarounds, well kept notice boards, and plenty of bathrooms around. A very nice place to check out while you're in the area!
— Julia Van Fleet
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.
— Shubhro Banerjee
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 😛
— Nati
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!
— That Nerdy Goth Girl
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
— Desiree Mendenhall Squirrel
Photo by Darren Boyd via Google Maps