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Captain William Clark Park Cottonwood Beach

4.5
·847 reviews·Washougal, United States

A beautiful riverside park with sandy beaches, shallow waters perfect for toddlers, and scenic trails for walking and wildlife viewing.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-week mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Canada Geese flight across snowy Mt. Hood, March 2023

Captain William Clark Park Cottonwood Beach

Best Time

Mid-week mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautiful riverside park with sandy beaches, shallow waters perfect for toddlers, and scenic trails for walking and wildlife viewing.

4.5
(847 reviews)

"This is a great place to bring kiddos, there is no shortage of beach."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Beat the Parking Rush

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can get tough. Mid-week visits offer a more relaxed experience.

🏖️ Toddler Paradise

The shallow, warm waters are perfect for little ones to safely splash and play.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 847 reviews

Type

Park

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sandy Beachfront

Sandy Beachfront

Along the Columbia River

Expansive sandy shores perfect for toddlers to splash and play in shallow, warm waters.

Reddit
Scenic River Views

Scenic River Views

Throughout the park

Enjoy magnificent views of the Columbia River and surrounding wildlife.

Reddit
Toddler-Friendly Waters

Toddler-Friendly Waters

Columbia River shoreline

Shallow, warm water ideal for little ones to safely explore and play.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beach Access & Parking

Captain William Clark Park offers ample sandy beach, perfect for toddlers and swimming. However, parking can be challenging, especially on weekends, so arrive early or consider mid-week visits for a smoother experience. Reddit

Best for Little Ones

This park is a gem for families with young children. The shallow, warm waters are ideal for toddlers to splash in safely, and the sandy beaches provide plenty of space to play. Reddit

Best Times

When
Mid-week mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends (early)
Why
Secure parking spot
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Interesting places for a 2 year old

Just moved here recently with my 2 yr old son and I'm looking for some cool playgrounds or some outdoor places in the area he can run around. Thanks in advance!

🚗 Beat the Parking Rush

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can get tough. Mid-week visits offer a more relaxed experience. Reddit

🏖️ Toddler Paradise

The shallow, warm waters are perfect for little ones to safely splash and play. Reddit

reddit.com

Sun’s out! What are your favorite walking trails in the (greater) Vancouver Area?

Whether river, lake, creek, mountain, or just greenery views, what are your favorite walking paths and viewpoints in the Vancouver/lower Clark County area that are NOT steep hiking trails? Also what are you favorite places to watch the sunset?

reddit.com

Dog friendly swimming holes?

My pup and I are looking to beat the heat this week. Any recommendations in the Vancouver / Ridgefield area? I’m hoping that the rivers are a little warmer now that it’s late July, but I can never be too sure! TYIA

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Strolls

Enjoy flat, dirt trails with beautiful river views and wildlife spotting. Reddit

🎣 Fishing Gem

A tucked-away spot great for fishing, with unique black sand bands. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Beat the Parking Rush

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can get tough. Mid-week visits offer a more relaxed experience. Reddit

🏖️ Toddler Paradise

The shallow, warm waters are perfect for little ones to safely splash and play. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Strolls

Enjoy flat, dirt trails with beautiful river views and wildlife spotting. Reddit

🎣 Fishing Gem

A tucked-away spot great for fishing, with unique black sand bands. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(847 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Captain William Clark Park for its beautiful sandy beaches and shallow, warm waters, making it a top choice for families with young children. The scenic river views and flat walking trails are also highly praised. However, parking can be a significant challenge, especially on weekends, and some areas of deeper water may have jet ski activity.

"This is a great place to bring kiddos, there is no shortage of beach. The depth is shallow for toddlers to walk in splash and there are also areas for deeper swimming, but those usually have people on jet skis. Very fun, very accessible. Parking is tough due to how many people go here. Still worth it."

Keenan Aitchison

"Great morning walk! Flat, dirt trail with a little gravel. Not busy mid-week. Beautiful views of the river and some wildlife. You can start at Steamboat Landing and walk here and beyond. You can also walk to the nature preserve. Beautiful park on the river and a great walk!"

William Case

"Nice and sandy. The water is warm. The views are amazing. It gets really crowded on the weekends. But had a wonderful time with the my family and friends. Will go again!!!"

Cori Hirashima-Boettger (Blingbling)

What People Like

Sandy beaches
Shallow, warm water
Scenic river views

What People Dislike

Difficult parking
Jet ski activity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is located in Washougal, Washington. It's accessible by car, and many visitors start their journey from Steamboat Landing to walk to the park. Reddit

Information on direct public transportation routes is limited. Driving is the most common method of access for visitors. Reddit

While specific directions can vary, the park is situated along the Columbia River in Washougal. Using a GPS with 'Captain William Clark Park' or 'Cottonwood Beach' should guide you. Reddit

Yes, many visitors enjoy a walk from Steamboat Landing to Captain William Clark Park, taking in the scenic riverfront. Reddit

The park features flat, dirt trails with some gravel, which can be manageable for some mobility devices. The beach area is sandy. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Captain William Clark Park is generally a public park, and there is no mention of an entrance fee for general access. Reddit

As a public park, it's likely open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check local park regulations for specific hours. Reddit

No, tickets are not required for entry into Captain William Clark Park as it is a public recreational area. Reddit

Standard park rules apply, such as leash laws for pets and regulations regarding fires or BBQs. Check local advisories for any temporary restrictions. Reddit

The park has grilling stations and ample space, making it suitable for family gatherings. For larger organized events, check with local authorities about permits. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy swimming, playing on the sandy beach, fishing, walking the trails, and picnicking with grilling stations available. Reddit

The water is shallow and warm, making it great for toddlers. Deeper areas exist but may have jet ski activity. Always exercise caution. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned as having a playground, the vast sandy beach and open spaces provide ample room for children to play and run. Reddit

Visitors have reported seeing various wildlife along the riverbanks and in the nature preserve areas adjacent to the park. Reddit

Public parks typically have restroom facilities. It's advisable to confirm their availability and condition upon arrival. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the park itself has grilling stations for picnics, nearby Washougal offers various dining options. Reddit

Yes, the park is equipped with grilling stations, making it an excellent spot for picnics and BBQs. Reddit

Bring your own food, drinks, and any picnic essentials. Don't forget sunscreen, towels, and beach toys for a fun day out. Reddit

No, there are no restaurants within the park itself. It's primarily a recreational area for outdoor activities and picnics. Reddit

There are no concessions or food vendors mentioned within the park. It's best to bring your own food and drinks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The sandy beaches, the Columbia River vistas, and the natural landscapes offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light for photography, with stunning river views. Reddit

Yes, the park is a good location for observing and photographing local wildlife along the river. Remember to maintain a respectful distance. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial photography or drone usage, check local park regulations. Reddit

Expect sandy beaches, the wide Columbia River, and natural riverside vegetation, offering a serene and picturesque setting. Reddit

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