RC Island

RC Island RV is not a sprawling, amenity-heavy resort, but rather a quiet, small-scale, and highly-personalized RV camping spot located near the historic town of Cathlamet, Washington. Situated along the majestic Columbia River, this destination offers a rustic and unique outdoor experience that is increasingly treasured by Washingtonians seeking genuine escape from crowded, commercialized campgrounds. Its charm lies in its simplicity, riverside location, and the warm, helpful service provided by the hosts, famously referred to in reviews as "Randy and his lovely wife."

The essence of RC Island is its connection to the natural environment. It provides guests with a tranquil base from which to enjoy the lower Columbia River area, known for its profound natural beauty, rich maritime history, and exceptional fishing opportunities. As a dedicated **RV Park**, it specializes in accommodating recreational vehicles, providing the fundamental need for a secure place to park, and embracing a more self-sufficient style of camping. This is the kind of hidden gem that seasoned Washington campers are often hesitant to share, as one visitor noted: **"I'm reluctant to give these guys a good review because I don't want word to get out."**

For visitors from the Puget Sound area or other parts of Washington, RC Island represents an intentional choice to unplug and enjoy the simple pleasures of river life—from watching the large ocean-going vessels and barges pass by to observing the local wildlife. The experience is intimate, focused on the immediate surroundings, and strongly influenced by the direct, friendly support of the owners, who are known to personally assist guests who **"had trouble finding it at first."** This level of hands-on, local hospitality is a core component of the RC Island experience.

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RC Island RV is located at **177 Ostervold Rd, Cathlamet, WA 98612, USA**. This address places the park in the immediate vicinity of Cathlamet, often suggesting a location on **Puget Island**, a large, accessible island in the Columbia River that is connected to the mainland by a bridge. This island location contributes significantly to its tranquil and secluded atmosphere.

• **Columbia River Frontage:** The primary appeal is its location directly on the Columbia River. This position allows guests to enjoy the constant, dramatic spectacle of river traffic and affords direct access to the water's edge.
• **Proximity to Cathlamet:** Cathlamet, the small, picturesque county seat of Wahkiakum County, is just a short distance away. This provides convenient access to local services, including small shops, restaurants, and the Elochoman Slough Marina.
• **Scenic Isolation:** Being located slightly off the beaten path on Ostervold Road contributes to the park's atmosphere of being a genuine escape, justifying the effort of guests who found it difficult to locate initially.
• **Rural Road Access:** While scenic, the rural location means Washington visitors should be aware that local roads may be small, necessitating careful driving when arriving with a large RV.
• **Parking:** The facility confirms that **On-site parking** is provided for both the RV and any accompanying tow or commuter vehicle.

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RC Island focuses on providing the foundational elements necessary for a self-sufficient camping experience along the Columbia River. The services reflect a rustic, owner-operated model rather than a resort-style list:

• **Personalized Hospitality:** The most highly touted service is the direct, friendly, and helpful engagement of the owners, Randy and his wife, who assist guests with everything from directions to local advice.
• **RV Site Rental:** Provision of designated space for recreational vehicles with stunning river views.
• **Power and Water (Likely):** While not explicitly confirmed in the reviews, local RV parks in the area generally offer electrical hookups (30-amp being common) and fresh water hookups, which are vital for comfortable camping.
• **Basic Waste Facility:** The park provides an **outhouse** for basic restroom needs, a feature often found in more rustic, smaller campgrounds.
• **Waste Management Limitation:** It is explicitly stated that there is **"not a septic pump out,"** meaning guests must arrive prepared to haul their gray and black water to a nearby dump station (like those at local marinas or state parks) upon departure.
• **Pet Accommodation:** The park is confirmed to be **Dogs allowed**, recognizing that many Washington RV travelers bring their pets.

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The features of RC Island are derived directly from its unique natural setting and the authentic experience it delivers:

• **Columbia River Beach Access:** A highly valued feature is the availability of a **"sandy beach"** where guests can relax, children can play, and the scenery can be enjoyed up close.
• **Exceptional Scenery and Observation:** The park offers continuous entertainment via the active river, allowing guests to enjoy **"watching the boats on the river"** and observing **"the horses across the road,"** creating a serene, pastoral backdrop.
• **Prime Fishing Opportunities:** The location on the Columbia River is ideal for anglers. One reviewer specifically mentioned that their **"husband loved fishing,"** confirming that the river access provides ample opportunities for catching salmon, sturgeon, and other local species.
• **High-Value Privacy:** The small size and intentional remoteness create a quiet, private atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the crowded, anonymous feel of many larger RV parks.
• **Personal Touch:** The dedication and friendliness of the owners are a consistent highlight, ensuring that every guest feels personally welcomed and cared for, adding significant value to the stay.
• **Rustic & Authentic Camping:** The provision of an **outhouse** and the absence of a septic dump signal an authentic, back-to-nature camping experience that appeals to those who are self-contained and prioritize simplicity over luxury amenities.

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Due to the private and intimate nature of RC Island, securing a reservation often involves direct, personal contact with the owners. Interested Washington travelers should use the following details:

Address: 177 Ostervold Rd, Cathlamet, WA 98612, USA

While no phone number was universally available, based on the owner's personal involvement, local inquiry or a direct search for "Randy's RV Cathlamet" may be necessary for booking, as the owners are known to personally assist in the reservation process.

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For the Washingtonian RV traveler, RC Island is unequivocally worth choosing for its unparalleled combination of **rustic seclusion and authentic Columbia River access**. What makes it stand out is the quality of the natural setting—the ability to enjoy a private **sandy beach**, excellent **fishing opportunities**, and the calming spectacle of river life without the crowds and commercial pressure of larger parks. This is a destination for those whose priority is proximity to nature and a quiet environment. Crucially, the exceptionally warm and helpful hospitality provided by the owners transforms the stay into a personal, memorable experience, setting it apart from corporate-run campgrounds.

While the lack of full septic hookups and the use of an outhouse necessitates a more self-sufficient approach, this very rusticity is part of the appeal, guaranteeing a genuine escape. RC Island is the ideal choice for experienced Washington RVers and anglers seeking a quiet, pet-friendly hideaway on the river where they are treated like welcomed guests by local, caring hosts, ensuring a truly relaxing and unforgettable stay on the Lower Columbia River.

RC Island

177 Ostervold Rd, Cathlamet, WA 98612, USA