My second post, just trying to get a few more tips. Thanks to gardyloo and wabashcannonball who posted earlier.
Has anyone stayed in one of the vacation rentals at Fort Columbia or Fort Disappointment?

I've seen them while visiting the parks, but not stayed overnight. For me, it would be an easy choice; either of the places at Cape Disappointment, hands down.

Is that for the location of Cape Disappointment or quality of the houses?
Why would it be better as a base to stay? (We have never been in this area and have not seen enough photos to judge). Thanks

Not knowing your plans, I was thinking just for quality of the homes, and views from the properties. And Cape Disappointment just has more things of interest in the park.

The two parks aren't that far apart, so I don't think it matters much which you choose as a "base". Cape Disappointment is a little more isolated though.

The Cape Disappointment (sorry, it will always be Fort Canby to me!) rentals are the ones at North Head, correct? If so, yes I have stayed at Lightkeeper's House. It was quite comfortable. We were there in the winter when there are very few visitors. It's a short walk past the two houses to the lighthouse.

Beachbum, it's been a few years, but for the life of me I don't recall a great view from the house we stayed in (the one closer to the parking lot). Or maybe I just didn't get the room with the great view! Fantastic view from the lighthouse, though.

You can see some good pictures of the houses here: http://www.fortcanby.org/visit/cape_d.html