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Willapa Bay Images and Information
Several coastal rivers converge in the area from Bay Center to Tokeland over a distance of about 25 miles. The rivers are relatively small, easy-going, as they make the transition for a marshy saltwater environment to coastal stream disappearing into the woods. The quiet solitude of these gently meandering streams can be found in an area that remains an undiscovered gem only three hours from Portland. Paddling destinations include the Palix, South Palix, Bone, Willapa, and North Rivers, and Smith Creek.
Scroll down for information about the most recent event at this location
Additional resources:
- How to submit more pictures for this page
- OOPS runs a paddle weekend at Willapa Bay, usually during June. See below.
- Click to view the map location for Willapa Bay
- Willapa Chamber of Commerce
- Conditions in June:
- This is ocean water and it is cold. Wet or dry suit is recommended. At a minimum you should wear a water resistant shell with pile (pants and jacket).
- Weather can be mild, clouds or partially sunny. Air temperatures are usually in the 70s.
- Other Concerns:
- We usually stay at the Bruceport County Park, but nearby towns of Bay Center, South Bend, Raymond also provide lodging and services
- Most paddle launch areas (Palix, South Palix, Willapa, North River, and Smith Creek) require a Discover Pass to leave a vehicle at the parking area.
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Willapa Bay Annual Event
What: A 3-day, 2-night campout at Willapa Bay. The date of event is timed for optimal
tides for paddling these coastal rivers: Palix, South Palix, Bone, Willapa, North, and Smith
Creek. Number of trips offered will depend of available leaders.
Trips: Typically Level 1 and 2. See our Trip Rating Page
Clothing on the water: Paddling conditions are not difficult, but this is ocean water and it is cold. Wet or dry suit is recommended. At a minimum you should wear a water resistant shell with pile (pants and jacket). Organizer will communicate.
Group Size and Meals: Number of people will range from 12 to 20, depending on the number of trip leaders available. Bring your own food, stove etc., and plan on an optional oyster dinner at a local restaurant Friday evening and a potluck Saturday evening.
Bruceport County Park Accommodations and Cost: RV, tent, trailer sites available. Camping fee is $15 for standard tent site, $21 for utility sites with full hookups. Many sites will accommodate two tents. No additional charge for extra tent or vehicle. Coin operated showers are provided. Campers reserve sites individually. Campground has a large covered picnic area for Saturday potluck. OOPS has a good working relationship
with the campground manager. Nearby towns: Bay Center, South Bend, Raymond.
Weather: Mild, clouds or partially sunny. Temperatures in the 70s usually.
Time from Portland: About 3 hours. Organizers will provide list of participants so you can set up carpools.
Washington Discover Pass: Most paddle launch areas (Palix, South Palix, Willapa, North River, and Smith Creek) require a Discover Pass to leave a vehicle at the parking area. Cost is approximately $35 for a 12-month pass. No pass required for the Bone River.
How to sign up: Go to the OOPS website Calendar, click on Willapa Bay