An interview with Robert Wirth, park manager of Kampers West Kampground, 1140 N.W. Warrenton Dr., one mile west of Main Street in Warrenton.

The heart of Oregon fishing country lies just two and a half miles west of Astoria. The scenic Warrenton Trail runs along the river, through the back yard of bald eagles. Biking, hiking and exploring await visitors to this area near the mouth of the Columbia River, and Kampers West is one place tourists can call home for a night or more. For more information, call 861-1814 or toll free (800) 880-5267

What would you like readers to know about Kampers West?

“We are open 365 days a year for daily, weekly and monthly camping. We have a clubhouse and full kitchen available to anyone for family reunions, weddings and events. We have crab cooking and fish cleaning stations.”

What attracts campers to stay at Kampers West?

“Our family atmosphere and friendly staff, combined with a location central to recreation and shopping attract people here.”

What attracts campers in the winter?”Many come here in the winter for the crabbing, clamming and winter storms.”

Where do the majority of campers come from?

“Forty percent are from Oregon; 17.5 percent are from Washington; 12 percent are from Arizona and 11.5 percent come from California. We have campers from all states and many countries, accounting for 1 to 3 percent each.”

Do you have special events or programs for the campers?

“We have about one event per month, such as Fourth of July and Memorial Day. We have a big Thanksgiving Day dinner. We cook turkey for over 60 campers. We expect as many as 100 this year.”

How many campers can you handle?

“We have 135 full hook-up sites, 25 with water and electricity, three cabins and many tent sites.”

How has camping at Kampers West changed over the years?

“We have always been a big fish camp in the summer. We are now seeing an increase in families. Families are getting back to camping, and the baby boomers are going camping. I see the numbers increasing in the next few years. More and more local people, maybe because of gas prices, are coming here. I feel that this next season, beginning in May, will be big.”

What can you tell us about your volume?

“Since May 15, 2003, we have checked in 8,413 campers.”

What is the biggest challenge in operating a campground of this size?

“We challenge ourselves to make sure everyone leaving the park is happy and likely to return.”

– Bob Duke