If you’re looking for the ultimate camping experience along the picturesque coast of Oregon, look no further. This comprehensive article is your go-to guide for all things Coastal campgrounds in Oregon. From scenic spots along the Oregon Coast Trail to hidden gems tucked away in the lush forests, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking views, outdoor activities, and serene nights under the stars. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned pro, this complete overview will help you plan your perfect coastal camping trip in Oregon. So grab your camping gear and let’s hit the road!
Overview of Coastal Campgrounds in Oregon
If you’re looking for a vacation that combines the beauty of nature with the comfort of camping, look no further than the coastal campgrounds in Oregon. Oregon’s coastline is known for its stunning geography, with sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Coastal campgrounds in Oregon serve as the perfect basecamp for exploring the state’s natural wonders and enjoying a variety of outdoor activities.
Location and geography of Oregon’s coastline
Oregon’s coastline stretches for approximately 363 miles, offering a diverse range of landscapes and natural features. From the northern tip of Oregon at the mouth of the Columbia River to the southern border with California, the coastline is a combination of sandy beaches, rocky shores, towering cliffs, and dramatic headlands. The coastal region is also home to numerous rivers, lakes, and state parks, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Importance of coastal campgrounds as tourist destinations
Coastal campgrounds in Oregon attract thousands of visitors every year, and for good reason. The campgrounds provide a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the state while enjoying the convenience and comfort of camping. These campgrounds are not just for tents; many offer RV sites with hookups, cabins, and even yurts for rent. With their prime locations near the beach and other attractions, coastal campgrounds are an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable vacation.
Types of coastal campgrounds in Oregon
Oregon offers a variety of coastal campgrounds to cater to different preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking for beach access, hiking trails, water activities, fishing opportunities, proximity to lighthouses, or simply panoramic views, there’s a campground for you.
Northern Oregon Coastal Campgrounds
Cannon Beach RV Resort
Located in the charming town of Cannon Beach, this campground offers a mix of RV sites and cabins. It provides easy access to the iconic Haystack Rock and the beautiful sandy beach. Cannon Beach RV Resort is also within walking distance of the town center, where visitors can explore art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants.
Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens State Park is a historical site that offers both camping and a glimpse into the past. The campground features a range of amenities, including full hookup RV sites, tent sites, and yurts. Visitors can explore the remnants of a military fort that dates back to the Civil War era, as well as enjoy beach access, miles of hiking and biking trails, and a freshwater lake for swimming and boating.
Nehalem Bay State Park
Nehalem Bay State Park is nestled at the mouth of the Nehalem River and offers a unique camping experience. The park boasts spacious campsites, RV hookups, and even horse camps for equestrians. With its location near the beach and the bay, visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and crabbing. The park also has hiking and biking trails, as well as sand dunes for thrill-seekers.
Cape Lookout State Park
Perched on a sand spit between Netarts Bay and the Pacific Ocean, Cape Lookout State Park offers stunning coastal views and outdoor adventures. The campground provides tent and RV sites, as well as deluxe cabins for those seeking a more luxurious camping experience. Hiking trails wind through old-growth forests, leading to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the ocean. The park also features beach access and picnic areas, perfect for enjoying a sunset dinner.
Central Oregon Coastal Campgrounds
Beverly Beach State Park
With its long sandy beach and beachside campground, Beverly Beach State Park is a popular destination for families and beach lovers. The campground offers both tent and RV sites, and some even have electricity and water hookups. Visitors can stroll along the expansive shoreline, fly kites, or explore tide pools teeming with marine life. The park is also conveniently located near the town of Newport, where attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Yaquina Bay Lighthouse await.
South Beach State Park
South Beach State Park is located just south of Newport and features a campground nestled among windswept dunes and coastal forest. The campground offers a variety of camping options, from tent sites to full hookup RV sites. In addition to beach access, the park boasts hiking and biking trails that meander through lush vegetation and provide opportunities for birdwatching. South Beach State Park is an excellent choice for those looking for a tranquil camping experience with easy access to city amenities.
Devils Lake State Recreation Area
Devils Lake State Recreation Area is situated inland, just east of Lincoln City. This campground offers a serene lakeside setting, perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. The campground provides both tent and RV sites, some with electric hookups. Visitors can explore the lake by kayak or paddleboard, or simply relax on the sandy beach. The area is also known for its birdwatching opportunities, as a variety of waterfowl and songbirds frequent the lake.
Cape Perpetua Campground
Perched on the edge of a forested headland, Cape Perpetua Campground offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding coastline. The campground provides both tent and RV sites, and some sites are even located amidst towering trees, offering additional privacy. Cape Perpetua is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of hiking trails that wind through lush old-growth forests and lead to secluded beach coves. Visitors can also explore the nearby Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, which offers interpretive exhibits and overlooks the breathtaking Spouting Horn and Devil’s Churn.
Southern Oregon Coastal Campgrounds
Sunset Bay State Park
Sunset Bay State Park is a picturesque campground located on a secluded bay near Coos Bay. The campground offers a variety of camping options, from tent sites to full hookup RV sites. Visitors can relax on the sandy beach, explore tide pools, or hike along the scenic rugged cliffs. The park also features a boat ramp, picnic areas, and a beachside café for those looking to grab a bite to eat.
Harris Beach State Park
Located near Brookings, Harris Beach State Park is famous for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. The campground offers stunning ocean views, with camping options ranging from tent sites to full hookup RV sites. Visitors can stroll along the sandy beach or hike on the nearby headland trails, which provide breathtaking vistas. The park is also known for its tide pools, which are home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful sea stars and anemones.
Cape Blanco State Park
Cape Blanco State Park is situated on the westernmost point in Oregon and offers a remote and rugged camping experience. The campground provides tent and RV sites, as well as horse camps for equestrians. With its location overlooking the Pacific Ocean, visitors can enjoy panoramic views and access to a secluded beach. The park is also home to the Cape Blanco Lighthouse, which offers guided tours and a glimpse into Oregon’s maritime history.
Humbug Mountain State Park
Nestled between Port Orford and Gold Beach, Humbug Mountain State Park offers a unique camping experience at the base of a towering mountain. The campground provides tent and RV sites, and some sites are nestled in the shade of old-growth trees. Visitors can embark on the challenging but rewarding hike to the summit of Humbug Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline. The park also features beach access and picnic areas, perfect for a day of relaxation by the sea.
Coastal Campgrounds with Beach Access
Seal Rock Campground
Seal Rock Campground is located just south of Newport and offers direct beach access. The campground provides tent and RV sites, with some sites offering stunning ocean views. Visitors can explore the tide pools or watch for seals and sea lions on the nearby rocks. The campground is also conveniently located near popular attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area.
Bastendorff Beach County Park
Situated near Coos Bay, Bastendorff Beach County Park provides easy beach access and a range of recreational opportunities. The campground features both tent and RV sites, as well as picnic areas and a playground for younger visitors. Bastendorff Beach is a popular spot for surfers, as it offers consistent waves. Visitors can also indulge in beachcombing or take a stroll along the shore to enjoy stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
Located near Winchester Bay, Umpqua Lighthouse State Park offers a unique camping experience with access to a beautiful sandy beach. The campground provides RV sites, tent sites, and group sites for larger gatherings. Visitors can explore the majestic Umpqua River Lighthouse, hike on the nearby dunes, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Horsfall Campground
Horsfall Campground is nestled in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, providing direct access to miles of sandy dunes and stunning ocean views. This campground offers both tent and RV sites, as well as a variety of amenities including hot showers and a nearby grocery store. Visitors can rent ATVs or sandboards to explore the dunes, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk along the beach.
Coastal Campgrounds with Hiking Trails
Neskowin Creek RV Resort
Nestled in the coastal town of Neskowin, Neskowin Creek RV Resort offers a peaceful camping experience surrounded by nature. The resort provides RV sites with full hookups, as well as amenities such as a swimming pool and a clubhouse. Visitors can explore the nearby hiking trails, which wind through lush forests and offer picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park
Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park is located just north of Florence and offers a tranquil camping experience in a coastal forest setting. The campground provides tent and RV sites, as well as yurts for rent. The park features hiking trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking the ocean, as well as a secluded beach for peaceful walks and picnics. Wildlife enthusiasts may also spot a variety of bird species, including the majestic bald eagle.
Tugman State Park
Tugman State Park is situated along Eel Lake, just east of Reedsport. The campground offers a serene setting for camping, with both tent and RV sites available. Visitors can explore the hiking trails that meander through the surrounding forest, or enjoy a variety of water activities on the lake, such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also has picnic areas, making it a great spot for a lakeside lunch.
Whalehead Beach
Whalehead Beach is a hidden gem located in the town of Depoe Bay. This secluded beach offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and is accessible through a short hike from the nearby parking area. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the beach, watch for migrating whales, or simply relax and soak up the serenity of the surroundings.
Coastal Campgrounds with Water Activities
Cullaby Lake Campground
Cullaby Lake Campground is situated near Warrenton and offers camping opportunities on the shores of a tranquil lake. The campground provides tent and RV sites, as well as amenities such as boat rentals and a swimming area. Visitors can enjoy fishing for trout and bass, explore the lake by kayak or paddleboard, or simply relax on the sandy beach.
Siltcoos Lake Campground
Located near Florence, Siltcoos Lake Campground offers a unique camping experience on the shores of a pristine coastal lake. The campground provides both tent and RV sites, as well as amenities like a boat ramp and a fishing dock. Visitors can go boating or fishing on the lake, hike on the nearby trails, or simply unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Tahkenitch Lake Campground
Tahkenitch Lake Campground is nestled between the coastal towns of Reedsport and Florence, offering a peaceful retreat on the shores of a scenic lake. The campground provides tent and RV sites, as well as amenities like a boat ramp and a fishing dock. Visitors can go canoeing or kayaking on the lake, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore, or try their luck at catching trout or salmon.
William M. Tugman State Park
William M. Tugman State Park is bordered by Eel Lake and offers a wide range of water activities. The campground provides both tent and RV sites, as well as amenities like a boat ramp and a fishing dock. Visitors can go boating, fishing, or swimming in the lake, or simply relax on the sandy beach. The park also features picnic areas and a playground, making it a great destination for a family outing.
Coastal Campgrounds for Fishing Enthusiasts
Loon Lake Lodge and RV Resort
Loon Lake Lodge and RV Resort is located inland, just east of Reedsport, and offers a peaceful retreat for fishing enthusiasts. The resort provides RV sites with full hookups, as well as amenities like a marina and a boat ramp. Loon Lake is well-known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species like trout, bass, and crappie in abundance. Visitors can also rent boats or kayaks to explore the lake, or simply enjoy the scenic views from the comfort of their campsite.
Chinook RV Resort
Chinook RV Resort is situated in the coastal town of Waldport and offers a prime location for fishing enthusiasts. The resort provides RV sites with full hookups, as well as amenities like a boat ramp and a fish cleaning station. Visitors can try their luck at fishing for salmon, steelhead, or trout in the nearby Alsea River, or explore the local tide pools and beach for other marine life. Chinook RV Resort also offers guided fishing trips for those who want expert assistance.
Coho Oceanfront Lodge
Coho Oceanfront Lodge is located in the picturesque town of Lincoln City and provides a unique experience for fishing enthusiasts. The lodge offers ocean-view rooms, as well as access to a private beach and jetty. Visitors can try their hand at surf fishing or cast their lines from the jetty for a chance to catch species like surfperch or rockfish. Coho Oceanfront Lodge also provides fish cleaning stations, perfect for preparing the day’s catch.
Pelican Brewing and Taproom
Pelican Brewing and Taproom is situated in Pacific City and offers a memorable camping experience with a focus on craft beer and fishing. The campground provides both tent and RV sites, and is located within walking distance of the popular Pelican Brewing Company. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching salmon or steelhead in the nearby Nestucca River, or simply relax on the sandy beach and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Coastal Campgrounds near Lighthouses
Caretakers House at Heceta Head
The Caretakers House at Heceta Head is a unique and historic accommodation option located near Florence. Situated adjacent to the Heceta Head Lighthouse, the Caretakers House offers comfortable rooms with views of the ocean and the lighthouse. Visitors can take a guided tour of the lighthouse and learn about its fascinating history, or hike on the nearby trails that wind through the coastal forest.
Yaquina Bay Lighthouse
Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is located in Newport and offers a glimpse into Oregon’s maritime past. While camping is not available directly at the lighthouse, there are several campgrounds in the area that provide easy access to this historical site. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history and significance, or explore the nearby Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site, which offers picnic areas and beach access.
Cape Arago State Park
Cape Arago State Park is situated near Coos Bay and is home to not one, but three lighthouses within close proximity. While camping is not available directly at the park, there are nearby campgrounds that offer easy access to these lighthouses. Visitors can take a scenic drive along Cape Arago Highway, stopping at each lighthouse along the way. The park also features stunning viewpoints overlooking the coastline, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Umpqua River Lighthouse
The Umpqua River Lighthouse is located near Winchester Bay and offers a unique camping experience with easy access to this historical landmark. There are campgrounds nearby that provide both tent and RV sites, as well as amenities like a marina and hiking trails. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its role in aiding maritime navigation, or explore the surrounding area, which offers opportunities for birdwatching and beachcombing.
Coastal Campgrounds with Scenic Views
Whiskey Run Beach
Whiskey Run Beach is a hidden gem located near Bandon and offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline. While camping is not available directly at the beach, there are nearby campgrounds that provide easy access to this pristine stretch of sand. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the beach, admiring the unique rock formations and the crashing waves. The beach is also a popular spot for watching sunsets and for beachcombing.
Port Orford Heads State Park
Perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Port Orford Heads State Park offers breathtaking views and a rich natural and cultural history. While camping is not available directly at the park, there are nearby campgrounds that provide convenient access to this scenic area. Visitors can hike on the trails that wind through the headlands, learning about the area’s unique flora and fauna, or explore the nearby Cape Blanco State Park for additional scenic vistas.
Crissey Field State Recreation Site
Located near Brookings, Crissey Field State Recreation Site offers stunning views of the Chetco River as it meets the Pacific Ocean. While camping is not available directly at the park, there are nearby campgrounds that provide access to this picturesque area. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the river, watch for birds and other wildlife, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Battle Rock Beach
Battle Rock Beach is situated in the town of Port Orford and offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the town’s iconic Battle Rock. While camping is not available directly at the beach, there are nearby campgrounds that provide easy access to this scenic spot. Visitors can explore the beach and tide pools, hike to the top of Battle Rock for panoramic views, or even try their hand at surf fishing from the nearby jetty.
In conclusion, the coastal campgrounds in Oregon offer a wide range of experiences for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking a beachfront camping experience, access to hiking trails, water activities, fishing opportunities, proximity to lighthouses, or simply breathtaking scenic views, there’s a campground in Oregon that fits the bill. From the rugged cliffs of the northern coast to the sandy beaches of the central and southern regions, each campground offers its unique charm and opportunities for adventure. So pack your camping gear, embark on a coastal journey, and create lasting memories in the beautiful state of Oregon.
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