By:
Submission
If you’re thinking of visiting the pristine wilderness of Washington State, the emerald waters of Yale Lake and the surrounding St. Helens wilderness area will surpass your expectations. Beaver Bay Campground is a 65 site recreation area located along Yale Lake, in Cougar, WA. The campground consists of standard amenities including running water, showers, a boat launch, roped off swimming beach, and fire pits. There is also a day-use picnic area for those wanting to recreate here. While there are no RV hookups, there is a vehicle dump station for those who need it. Crowds can get tough here as this is one of the most popular campgrounds on Yale Lake. Subsequently, getting a good campsite can often require going during the off season (Spring/Fall) when crowds are not as common. Otherwise, smaller campsites can get cramped.
Thankfully, you don’t need to hide out in your tent as local activities are plentiful. To start, just 15 minutes North-East, the “Ape Caves” of Mount St. Helens provide visitors a completely unique opportunity to tour the volcanic tunnels left behind by the infamous volcanic eruption of 1980. In addition, those willing to drive can travel through I-5N, east on HWY 504, to check out the Mount St. Helens visitor center. If you’re really adventurous, check out the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument for amazing insight into to eruption, and panoramic views of the dome.
On the lake itself, most forms of boating are common, as well as water skiing and wakeboarding during morning hours. Additionally, the lake is also a premier fishing spot known for its abundance of Kokanee and Cutthroat Coastal Trout. You’ll need a fishing license, which can be purchased on the way in the town of Woodland.
If you have an interest in beautiful scenery, you’re going to feel right at home here. If your thing is fishing and boating, you’re still in luck! Whatever your intentions, Beaver Bay is a great option for those looking for a place to stay and recreate among Washington’s wild terrain.
This is a great campground. During early July the lake gets an algae bloom that prohibits the best enjoyment of the water, but doesn't take away from the views. The B loop has seemed to treat us the best, but A is good too. The host sells wood if you need. The group camping area looks amazing, I hope one day to be able to use it. Most site are very shady, with spots of sun throughout the mid-afternoon. Overall, a wonderful place to spend a weekend.
By far one of the best places to go(early). Took the kayak and went across, there is a little sand bar like area where there's less rocks for the kiddos to swim without worrying about getting hit by boaters or kayaks and away from everyone else. The restrooms were surprisingly clean, and aside from the screaming kids, best when they are eating and not screaming, its the best yet. Side note, bring cash as they don't run card, I was confused, $4/vehicle, $10 for 2? Lol, worth it though
Trash fishing spot, I was here for 5 hours and got two bites and hooked no fish. I wouldn’t recommend wasting your time here. You’re better off fishing from Columbia.
Easy to check in, and helpful hosts, but make sure you get there within the check in times. Absolutely great spot near Portland. Campsite is really clean, as are the bathrooms. Big spots, good vibes. We went with friends and booked 2 spots, but could definitely have shared 1.
Take chairs for the beach as it’s pebbles and also any paddles board/floats as the water is amazing. Fire pits are level and have grill racks so you can cook on them.
Have fun campers!!
Spots B8 and B9. Very close to bathrooms and day/swimming area. Big spots!
