Relax at the River

98%

104 reviews

· Castle Rock, Cowlitz County, Washington · 1 acre

Hosted by Susan N.

RV/tent site

· 10 guests max

Susan is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Off-leash friendly

Pets can be off-leash at this Hipcamp.

All to yourself

97% of recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp felt private.

We have a 1/2 acre property on the Cowlitz River in the middle of Cooks Ferry Park in Castle Rock WA. We bought the property to relax in a beautiful setting close to home. We only live 15 minutes away. The property is made up of dredge spoils from when Mt. Saint Helens blew and is inside of a park where people can go to fish and enjoy the river. There are only 8 lots privately owned and we are the first lot that you come to. There is plenty of room for an RV. Guests can also tent camp or stay in our shack that has a sleeper sofa. There are snacks, a sign in book, an axe, briquets, a fire extinguisher, and other items the shack. There is a picnic table, fire pit, BBQ, and wood stove. There is a porta potty on the property. We value your privacy. We do have cameras on the property that are on when no one is there. Once a Hipcamper arrives at the property, they are turned off. We also keep our travel trailer there to enjoy when we can. We will never be there camping when you are there. In the summer, we sometimes kayak. We put in upriver and get out at the property. If it is booked at that time, we will always check first to see if it is okay for us to get out there. If you continue going past our property, there are some nice rock beaches with pretty views. People fish there and wade in the water in the summer. Castle Rock is a cute little town with some nice shops, restaurants and bars. I recommend checking it out! We are not picky about check in/check out time. It would only matter if someone else was checking in the day you are checking out. Please ask if you expect to arrive earlier or want to check out later. If your plans change, please cancel through Hipcamp to get a refund.Campers will have the entire lot to themselves. The property is rectangular shaped and there is plenty of room for a couple of RV's. There is no electricity or fresh water but the cell service is great. Dogs are welcome and do not need to be on a leash unless they are leaving our property and going onto other people's property. Please clean up after your dog especially if it poops on the property next to us. There is a shovel in the shack. You are right on the water. In the summer you can wade and cool off in the water but the current is too fast for swimming. If you want to Kayak or Paddle Board, you will want to put in at the boat launch in Castle Rock and get out at the property.

RV details

Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars allowed

Vehicles under 35 feet allowed

Campers can also back in.

Pull-in site

Campers can also back in.

Accommodates slideouts

Campers can also back in.

Surface type: Loose Gravel

Vehicles can also park on the grass if it is dry enough.

Surface levelness: Flat

Vehicles can also park on the grass if it is dry enough.

Generators allowed

No electrical hookup

N/A

No water hookup

No sewage hookup

No TV hookup

N/A

What to expect

RV/tent site

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

10 guests max

Campfires allowed

Firewood provided, firepit, wood burning fireplace. Wood is free however there is a box off of the shack for donations.

Toilet available

Portable toilet

Pets allowed

Off leash. River current is very strong. Road close by and people drive too fast at times. The property is fenced but not to keep pets in.

Bins available

Trash bin. Please take your garbage with you and put a new bag in the can for the next hipcamper. There are new bags in the can. Thanks!!

Picnic table present

No potable water

Bring your own water, purify from river or stream

No showers

Cooking equipment absent

No wifi

There is very good cell phone reception there if you need to "hot spot" from your phone for Wifi.

Laundry absent

Hot Tub absent

No playground

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 1:00 PM

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

On arrival: Head straight to site

Cancellation policy: Super Flexible

Minimum nights: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 12 months out

Park at listing

No wheelchair access

Max 4 vehicles

2WD accessible

There is a paved road to get to the site and a gravel driveway on the site.

During your trip

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Reviews

98% Recommend119 ratings · 104 reviews

Susan's campsite offers a peaceful and private retreat right by the river, where the sound of water and birdsong create a relaxing backdrop. The site is exceptionally well-maintained, with thoughtful touches like solar lights and a stocked fire pit adding to the comfort. Guests appreciate the spaciousness and security, with many mentioning the site's suitability for both solo and family visits. Some light sleepers noted potential noise from nearby boats and wind chimes, but overall, the atmosphere is praised for its tranquility and natural beauty.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

Peaceful river stay

11 ft pop-up camper · With pets

Phenomenal. Exactly as described. Beautiful river views, quite peaceful, and so easy to find. Obviously well maintained, with lots of solar lights so you can find the bathroom in the evening. We had two trailers and two tents, with plenty of room for everyone. Probably not the best spot if you want to play in the river, but I think that was indicated in the description.

Rachel B.

7 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

Great spot on the river!

Tent · With pets

Great open site to enjoy a get away! There are several options of places to set up your tent (we have a large 8 person and a 6 person and had no issues finding spots with a view). It is very open so you get a lot of sunshine, but if you prefer to be more shaded we were able to “hide” in the shade from the RV on site or retreat in to the shack that always had a great breeze going through when both doors were open. There is a path directly down to the river if you want to be closer, and if you want more of a bank to relax riverside, the site is on the Camelot Spur and Cook Ferry trail so we walked less than half mile and found a path with a place to hang out. The site was clean, the bathrooms were clean, and everything was great! Susan the host was also quick to respond when we needed to let her know something! We even had a couple deer stop by to check it out!

Tristan F.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2025

25 ft pop-up camper

Susan’s place is so relaxing and peaceful! We were so happy to be back! It’s nice watching the river go by, listening to the birds, seeing eagles and even deer in the morning! Great spacious place! Very well maintained and everything you need!

Maya K.

12 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

21 ft travel trailer · With pets

My family had a great time. The land was well maintained and easy to get to. I particularly enjoyed the little fishing hole with a view of the hills and the bird feeders which attracted lots of gold finches and mourning doves.

Viktor D.

3 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2025

24 ft travel trailer · With pets

Great place to hang out by the river. Lots of space. We will try to stay here again in the future.

John S.

24 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Tent · With pets

Site was well looked after and maintained. Container that was on site had tools/consumables like a axe and bug spray

Ian M.

2 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2025

Tent

Nice little place. Its between my destination in Oregon and Seattle and a nice little stop before continuing south, or checking out mount st helens. Wind chime was driving me a little crazy when it got windy though, and some boats on the water were a bit loud. I'm kinda a light sleeper but id stay here again.

Justin W.

2 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2025

Tranquil Escape:River & Cozy Nights

25 ft Class C

Our weekend at Relax at the River was truly exceptional! The locked gate ensured a strong sense of security, and the gravel pad made parking a breeze. The two picnic tables were a lifesaver since we forgot our own. The nearby river was breathtaking, perfect for soaking in the tranquility. We cherished the solitude of having the entire camp to ourselves, creating a peaceful and exclusive experience. The grounds were impeccably maintained, adorned with tasteful decorations that added charm, along with some delightful surprises that appeared at night, enhancing the ambiance. Thoughtfully placed motion lights were a brilliant touch, activating briefly to guide safe movement around the camp without flooding the area, preserving the serene atmosphere. The fire pit, stocked with dry wood, was a cozy highlight. Stargazing was phenomenal with a clear view of the stars, and we enjoyed spotting satellites. Our dogs thrived in the open space, making this a pet-friendly retreat. Highly recommend this serene, well-maintained spot for a private and unforgettable camping getaway!

Andy S.

6 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Beautiful, peaceful, private camp

20 ft campervan

Beautiful, peaceful and private camping spot right on the river! It was a lovely stay and we highly recommend it.

Jordan T.

7 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Relaxing River Magic!

16 ft car

This place was a little slice of magic! It was super relaxing with the slow trickle of the big river. It has everything you need! We did car camping and it was perfect. Honey bucket bathroom in great condition. Outdoor fire pit. Platform to do morning yoga on, etc. Super private and was a perfect sanctuary for us on our road trip!

Cass O.

4 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Great Place!

20 ft Class B

Super great stop, especially if you’re headed south on I5. Great host, great location, and felt safe and secure all night. Being right along the river was a bonus.

Dustin M.

2 reviews

Mixed feelings

· April 2025

20 ft campervan

The place is well thought out and probably great in warmer, dryer weather. I just had a one night stay and it was cold and rainy, and on a Monday so most things were closed in town. I got some good Mexican food and came back to the camp hoping for a fire in the stove. The container shack is a good option, unfortunately the fire wood was way too damp and I couldn't take advantage to watch the sunset on the river from that spot. I think I got unlucky on this visit.

Scott W.

5 reviews

Recommends

· March 2025

Tent · With pets

Such a lovely spot, perfect for a solo camp with the pups.

Johnnie S.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· December 2024

21 ft campervan · With kids

It was lovely. Exactly as described. I'd buy this property in a second....what a beautiful piece of land. I would be happy to come back.

Barbara W.

3 reviews

Recommends

· November 2024

Tent · With pets

everything was as wonderfully as described! my dog and I will definitely be back in the summer time!

Kelsey S.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

12 ft travel trailer · With pets

Great spot to relax by the river! Wood stove is amazing, kept us warm on the cold evenings. The lights for the paths were a good idea. The porta potty was clean, liked how it was kinda hidden in the trees. Would stay again.

Nicole P.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

26 ft travel trailer · With kids

Left this trip feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Great base camp for St Helen’s exploration. Relaxing in front of the wood stove was the highlight of our weekend. Host has many thoughtful lighted features around the property lending to the vibe, and communication was top notch.

Angela H.

3 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

24 ft Class B

We needed a last minute place to stay, and this was an awesome site! Quick response from host with super clear and informative directions. Easy self-serve check in late at night. We awoke to a tranquil, clean site next to the river. There is some very light interstate noise (more like white noise rather than traffic) and we heard one train (again, not disturbing). I would absolutely stay here again and wish we had another day to enjoy this spot by the river.

Jason H.

4 reviews

Recommends

· August 2024

Relaxing by the River

Tent · With pets

Relax at the River was a nice private camp spot. We especially enjoyed the sitting room and all the beautiful solar lights as dusk came. The kids loved running to the river and back to the field, they had a wonderful time and it was very easy to keep an eye on them. Thank you Susan for being a great host.

Jan C.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2024

22 ft campervan

We had a relaxing night on the river with our dogs. This site was very nice, secluded, and quiet. Looking forward to another stay!

Mike S.

13 reviews

Recommends

· August 2024

23 ft campervan · With kids

Susan’s property is a beautiful peaceful oasis and yet close for ease of travel. The directions were spot on and there were so many personal touches. We enjoyed the refreshing river dip for sure and had a wonderful fire. Thank you so much for hosting Susan!

Breehan And Stephen L.

4 reviews

Recommends

· August 2024

Great river view

30 ft fifth wheel

We had a wonderful stay in our 30’ 5th wheel. A little tight getting in, but easy after that. Gorgeous property that’s well cared for. Super tidy porta-potty, bbqs, picnic tables, bird feeders, extra camp chairs. Susan adds all sorts of little details to make the site welcoming. Don’t forget to bring a magnet from your home to add to her collection! We would definitely stay again.

Karen P.

2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

27 ft Class A

We had a great time, it was a little warm but the river was refreshing. Susan added allot of neat little touches. It was nice to be the only folks there. Dog's had a great time! Would love to come back earlier in the year.

Lynda H.

4 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

30 ft travel trailer · With pets

We had a great time at relax by the river. The river was old but we floated in it. Firewood on site made it easy to have a fire when it cooled down. Very secluded and was a wonderful get away!!

Bridget M.

2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent

Lovely and extremely private little spot. We loved putting our feet in the river.

Nate S.

4 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent · With kids

It was quite. The place was well kept. It was very relaxing. Plenty of room.

Terry G.

2 reviews

Recommends

· June 2024

Tent · Group trip

It was a great family camping spot. The owners thought of it all and the amenities were great. Welcoming and sense of home. Hammock was a great addition too! The only thing I was surprised by but understood were the cameras. Felt a bit invasive. I don't particularly like someone watching my family camp. I don't remember reading that when I booked it. Definitely would stay again!

Nissa M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2024

So Wonderful

16 ft travel trailer · With pets

As lovely as always. The birds were abundant and beautiful to watch. Susan went out of her way to make our stay wonderful. Thank you so much for all you do.

Alicia M.

2 reviews

Recommends

· June 2024

Relaxing

21 ft Class B · With pets

Very open property with multiple parking options. The river has steep banks, but the stairs and ropes made it doable to get down to the water. There's a nice sand bar but beyond that the currant was swift. There's lots of areas to cook, eat and relax along the river. There's also solar lighting enough that we didn't need to use our flashlights.

Kari G.

6 reviews

Recommends

· May 2024

10/10

Tent · With kids

Stayed here for Memorial weekend and we can’t wait to go back. We couldn’t believe it was ours when we arrived. The views are stunning. We were happy for the little “shack” to keep some of our things dry as we experienced some on and off rain. The place was private and there are some great little river front areas to explore and fish. We did have a little trouble finding the place with my husband’s truck navigation but my iPhone took us straight there. My 10 year old gave the stay a 10/10 and we do too!

Alyssa G.

3 years on Hipcamp