RV Dump Station in Kalama, Washington: Camp Kalama RV Park
RV Dump Station Reviews & Ratings
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Driving north from Portland on I-5, the landscape opens up and you’re suddenly aware of the immense presence of the Columbia River to your west. It’s not just a river; it’s a massive, working waterway, with barges the size of city blocks silently gliding past forested hills. It’s in this beautiful setting that you’ll find Kalama, a small town with a big fishing reputation, and right on the edge of it, Camp Kalama RV Park. For the RVer on the move, this place is more than just a convenient dump station. It’s a scenic pause, a chance to swap the freeway drone for the sound of the river, and a perfect example of how a necessary chore can feel like part of the vacation.
Camp Kalama is a proper, old school RV park, nestled in a grove of shady trees right where the smaller Kalama River flows into the mighty Columbia. This isn't some sterile, paved lot. It has character. The main reason many people come here is for the world class salmon and steelhead fishing. The town lives and breathes it. So when you pull in, you’re entering a community of fellow travelers and avid anglers. Even if you don’t have a fishing pole with you, the vibe is relaxing. The park graciously allows day use of their dump station for a small fee, making it an incredibly smart stop to clean out your tanks before or after tackling the traffic in Vancouver and Portland just thirty minutes to the south.
The experience of dumping here is worlds away from a truck stop. You’ll pull off the main road and into the campground entrance. A quick stop at the camp office to pay the fee is all it takes. The staff are usually friendly locals who can give you tips on more than just where the sewer connection is. The dump station itself is typically located on one of the main loops of the campground. It’s a well maintained, level pad with easy access. You’re surrounded by trees and other RVs, not idling semis. There’s a sense of community and calm that makes the whole process feel less like a chore.
The amenities here are what really set it apart from a simple dump and go spot. They have potable water right at the station, so you can do a proper tank flush. They also have propane on site, which is a huge convenience. You can dump your tanks and get your grill cylinder refilled in the same stop. After a few days of adventure, having access to their clean restrooms, hot showers, and laundry facilities is a game changer. It’s a full reset. You can pull in with full tanks and a hamper full of dirty clothes and pull out an hour later feeling refreshed and ready for the next leg of your journey.
The location itself is a launching point for some serious Pacific Northwest exploration. Of course, there’s the fishing. But even if you’re not casting a line, the waterfront in Kalama is a great place to stretch your legs and watch the river traffic. And if you look to the east, you’re not far from one of the most dramatic landscapes in North America. The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is a very manageable day trip from here. Driving up toward the blast zone, seeing the evidence of the 1980 eruption, and exploring the visitor centers is an unforgettable experience. It puts the power of nature into perspective.
Let’s talk value. While the exact dump fee wasn’t listed, private parks in this corridor usually charge a very fair rate, somewhere in the ten to fifteen dollar range. For the quality of the facility, the beautiful setting, and the access to other amenities like propane and showers, it’s an excellent deal. A quick phone call ahead of time is always a good idea to confirm the day-use fee and the office hours. One little insider tip: the well water in this region can sometimes have a bit of a sulfur smell. It’s perfectly safe, but if you’re sensitive to it, having some extra holding tank deodorizer on hand is a good idea to keep your system smelling fresh after the dump and rinse.
My verdict? Camp Kalama is a fantastic option for anyone traveling the I-5 corridor along the Columbia River. It’s the perfect blend of utility and scenery. You might pull in just intending to use the dump station, but the peaceful, riverside setting might just convince you to stay the night. It’s a place to do more than just empty your tanks. It’s a place to take a deep breath, watch the river flow by, and maybe even enjoy a fresh-caught salmon dinner from the local market. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best parts of an RV trip are the unexpected, pleasant stops you make along the way.
5055 Meeker Dr, Kalama, WA 98625
(360) 442-4722
Cost: Price not available
Category: RV park
Has Water
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