Top of a lighthouse seen behind a mossy ridgeline

Cape Disappointment Temporary Camping Closure

Project summary

Cape Disappointment is one of the most visited state parks in Washington. This project focuses on improving the park’s infrastructure through renovations to its entrance, roads and trails.

Improvements include:

  • A culvert replacement on campground access road
  • Work on the park's entrance road that will improve traffic flow at the park entrance
  • A new Welcome Center
  • Increased hiking opportunities with new trail in the Three Waters Trail system
  • Restored wetland and habitat protection for wildlife

Though the bulk of the work is done, some construction remains.

Latest updates (Oct. 2026)

Cape Disappointment camping reopened in summer of 2026, but traffic into the campground will continue to be intermittently reduced to one lane with flaggers directing cars. 

  • The Boat Launch is closed through the end of the month (October)
  • The temporary park office is open
  • The new Welcome Center is under construction

Other temporary or intermittent closures may occur as needed. If you have questions, please check park alerts for the latest updates and information or call the park office at (360) 642-3078.

For your safety and for the safety of our staff and contractors, please avoid closed areas and construction zones.

Long-term benefits of this work:

  • New park entrance will improve flow of traffic
  • Campground road will be safer, especially for RVs and camp trailers
  • New trail will provide more hiking opportunities
  • Restored wetland improves park aesthetics and protects habitat for birds and animals that live there – meaning more birding and wildlife viewing for visitors

While State Parks is tasked with the maintenance and upkeep of the lands entrusted to us, including conservation of natural resources and recreation access, we recognize these closures impact the local communities our parks are a part of. As the project progresses, we will look for opportunities to increase access to the park when and where we can.