Konnichi wa / Great Outdoors
Camping on the Oregon Coast: 21 Top-Rated Campgrounds
Introduction
The Oregon coast is one of those hidden gems that doesn't get quite as much attention as its neighboring coast to the south in California but is no less beautiful and no less thrilling.
Here's a list of all the best sites for camping along Oregon's coast and a nice, relaxing video of the coast to get you started...
Watch this video on the ultimate tour of the Oregon coast!
What is the Oregon coast?
The Oregon coast is a stretch of the Pacific Ocean that runs along the western edge of America. It's known for its natural beauty and unique ecosystems, including jagged cliffs and beaches full of driftwood logs as well as towering evergreens.
Why camp on the Oregon coast?
The Oregon coast has a lot to offer!
It's home to many beautiful beaches and peaceful campgrounds that are perfect for people who love the outdoors, such as hikers or surfers.
There are many campgrounds along the Oregon coast that offer a serene atmosphere, which is ideal for people who enjoy camping.
Along these coasts you can see amazing views and beaches to explore, as well as find peace in nature. Another great part about spending time at one of these campsites is being able to disconnect from technology by enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking or kayaking through pristine waters.
The Oregon coast offers visitors an opportunity to experience a new part of the country while also having access to modern amenities.
The Oregon coast is home to many incredible destinations, including campgrounds and other outdoor experiences, which are perfect for people who love spending time outside in nature.
If you are looking for a place where you can be surrounded by natural beauty while also having access to modern amenities then look no further than one of Oregon’s premier coastal destinations!
Tips for camping on the Oregon coast
Camping on the Oregon coast is an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips for making your camping trip successful:
- Make sure you do some research to find out what amenities each campsite offers so that you can pack accordingly
- Be aware of any high tide times or how weather may affect your available activities
- Pack all of your belongings in a waterproof container, such as plastic bins if possible, and always check conditions before heading down to the water
- Check pricing for different locations to find a campsite that matches your budget
- Make sure you pack all of your needed items before heading out on your trip, such as food and necessary camping equipment
Camping is an exciting way to enjoy time outdoors! If you are planning a trip or vacation then consider staying at one of Oregon’s many coastal destinations, which offer campgrounds with access to modern amenities while still providing visitors with opportunities for nature exploration.
Campgrounds along the Oregon coast offer many benefits! If you want access to modern amenities while also experiencing natural beauty then consider staying at one of these campgrounds during your next trip. There are many different types of accommodations offered by these locations depending on whether you prefer hiking or relaxing by the water.
To make your visit successful be prepared and do some research about what each location has to offer ahead of time so that you can plan accordingly. Having everything packed up in waterproof containers will also help ensure nothing gets ruined during travel or rainstorms. What are you waiting for? Start planning your next camping trip today!
Quotes about camping on the Oregon coast
"There are a lot of beautiful places along Oregon's coastline, but you have to know where to look."
"It’s quite common now that people arrive early in the morning or late afternoon with no reservation whatsoever," said another ranger who asked not to be named because he was not authorized by management to speak publicly about this topic. "They just come off the highway and expect there will be an open site."
"Reservations are strongly recommended for camping at Yaquina Head, Devil’s Punchbowl and Cape Lookout."
"For state park campgrounds on the coast that do not take reservations by phone or internet, it is best to arrive early in the day. Many of these parks have smaller campsites with limited shade."
"If you can't get a site at one coastal state park, try another—sites fill quickly during spring break and summer weekends."
"Camping on the beach doesn't come cheap: Sites cost $35 per night. But here's an insider tip: Half of those fees are rebated back to you if you stay two or more nights."
"Some Oregon State Parks allow dogs on their beaches for a small nightly fee, but they must be leashed and under your control at all times."
"As long as fires aren't prohibited by local fire bans (which they often are in the summer), campfires can not only provide warmth and comfort, but also help cook meals like s'mores over an open flame"
"Please don’t feed wild animals while camping; it is unhealthy for them and could potentially threaten public safety. Feeding wildlife violates state law."
"Tent campers, car campers and RV guests can all find quiet campsites along the Oregon coast."
"It is illegal to drive on sand dunes in most places, but if you must do it please use caution when approaching others. Don’t be that guy who drives over someone else’s tent or picnic area."
The West Coast's hidden gems
If you're looking for tent camping along Highway 101 on the Pacific Ocean, look no further as Oregon and its wide array of state parks offer plenty of popular activities during the summer months, including tent sites, hiking trails, full hookup RV sites for campers, and yurts that will give you beach access within walking distance. Some include an indoor pool / swimming, electrical sites / electrical hookups, and potable water.
Looking for places to stay along the coast? Checkout our list below!
See map below for our list of camping sites along the coast!
Located on a four-mile sand spit separating the Pacific Ocean and Nehalem Bay, this park is open year-round and offers plenty of excitement. There are 18 yurts available for reservation (recommend booking well in advance), a hike along the jetty that will make you feel like you're on the edge of the world, and you're also in the perfect spot to see a few sea lions. You can take a short walk (about one mile) up the beach to Manzanita or go crabbing, clamming, horseback riding, or hiking. The park has something for everyone!
Price: $31/night for standard site; $52-62/night for yurt
More Information: Website
This park located just north of Newport is a popular campground with beach access. Loaded with 128 tent sites and 21 yurts, the park can get crowded on weekends and holidays but is well worth the effort as it has a great beach and is just a short drive from the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Yaquina Head.
Price: $21/night for tent site; $31-33/night for standard; $47-62/night for yurt
More Information: Website
Just south of Tillamook, this park is part of the Three Capes Scenic Route along with Cape Kiwanda and Cape Meares, and features more than eight miles of hiking and walking trails,. The beach is protected by a 50 ft. cobble-sized stone revetment that visitors must walk over to access, but is otherwise unhindered and offers stunning ocean views. It's possible to even spot a whale or two at certain times of the year. 170 tent sites and 13 yurts available for reservation.
Prices: $21/night for tent site; $31-34/night for standard; $47-62/night for yurt; $96-106/night for cabin
More Information: Website
Many people consider this their favorite Oregon State Park, and with camping, swimming, hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, a shipwreck, and a military fort spread over 4,300 acres, it's not difficult to see why. Visitors can stay in one of the six tent sites, 15 yurts, or 11 deluxe cabins (highly recommended) and take in some of the best sunsets in the world.
Price: $22/night for tent site; $32-34/night for standard; $54-64/night for yurt; $98-108/night for cabin
More Information: Website
Located three miles south of the city of Florence between Woahink Lake and the Pacific Ocean, Honeyman State Park is Oregon's second-largest state park campground with 187 tent sites and 10 yurts. Miles of sand dunes separate the park from the ocean and are great for dune buggies, but be careful with the little ones here as it can be very dangerous for kids. The park has two nearby freshwater lakes: Woahink, which has a day-use area where you can boat and fish; and Cleawox, which is ideal for swimming.
Price: $21/night for tent site; $29-33/night for standard; $44-61/night for yurt
More Information: Website
One of the most scenic places on the Oregon coast, but the camping areas (65 tent sites, 8 yurts, 30 full-hookup sites) are very close together which can get a bit crowded on holidays and weekends. Interpretive staff offer guided tide pool tours, nature walks, and living history walks. A network of trails connects this park with nearby Shore Acres and Cape Arago State Parks. These trails are great for hikers as they offer excellent ocean views atop rugged cliffs with glimpses of Gregory Point and Cape Arago Lighthouse. Picnic tables are located along the bay.
Price: $19/night for tent site; $28-30/night for standard; $48-58/night for yurt
More Information: Website
Just south of Newport across the Yaquina Bay Bridge, South Beach is another favorite for many visitors as there's a lot to do here. The paved jetty is ideal for biking and jogging. There's an equestrian trail to the beach that begins at the South Jetty equestrian trailhead. There's also disc golf, a playground area, and horseshoe pits. Kayak tours are offered from July through Labor Day at nearby Beaver Creek. There's even at lighthouse, Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, available for viewing. 60 tent sites and 27 rustic yurts.
Price: $21/night for tent site; $31/night for standard; $47-62/night for yurt
More Information: Website
A smaller park that has the largest island off the Oregon coast, Bird Island or Goat Island, which is a National Wildlife Sanctuary. There are plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings, from whales in the winter and spring, to seals, and even sea lions. 59 tent sites and six yurts.
Price: $20/night for tent site; $30-32/night for standard; $51-61/night for yurt
More Information: Website
Another smaller park with seven walk-in tent sites that are available seasonally and two yurts that are reservable. The park is located on the east side of Highway 101 but has easy access to the ocean via trails that lead from the campground to the beach.
Price: $21/night for tent site; $31-33/night for standard; $46-56/night for yurt
More Information: Website
Not too far from Eugene along Oregon's central coast, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area was once a part of Siuslaw National Forest, but was designated a national recreation site by Congress in 1972 due to its large expanse of coastal sand dunes. Managed by the Forest Service, this park is a popular place for riding off-road vehicles (which you can view on Google Maps here) and also has camping available. It's open year-round, but experiences heavy usage so plan your visit in advance.
Price: Varies widely by campground. Check recreationa.gov for details.
More Information: Website
Tillcum is one of those very small but extremely popular Oregon coast campgrounds located right on the ocean between Waldport and Yachats. It's managed by the Forest Service and open-year round, but probably best in the summer when it's also very busy. Most of the 61 campsites have beachfront views.
Price: $23/night for non-electric site; $30/night for electric
More information: Website
Located two miles north of Bandon-by-the-sea, this state park has plenty to see and do with nearby Coquille River Lighthouse and Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. The park has 13 yurts and no tent sites, unfortunately, but does sport a horse camp with eight primitive sites. The nearby town of Bandon, the "Cranberry Capitol of the World," has shops, galleries, and restaurants available.
Price: $28-30/night for standard site; $48-58/night for yurt
More Information: Website
A beautiful state park located just south of Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area with 23 tent sites, two rustic yurts, two rustic log cabins, and six deluxe yurts. This campground is mostly a well-kept secret with Umpqua River Lighthouse, which has an adjacent museum and is managed by the Douglas County Parks Department, nearby.
Price: $19/night for tent site; $28-31/night for standard; $43-53/night for cabin; $43-53/night for yurt; $82-92/night yurt for deluxe
More Information: Website
This park does not offer camping but is worth mentioning due to its incredible ocean views and miles of trails. Take a short hike up to Cape Falcon or down to Short Sand Beach for views you will not soon forget.
More Information: Website
15. Ecola State Park
Again no camping but lots of hiking and incredible views. Take a short hike down to the secluded Crescent Beach, check out the view of Cannon Beach, or stop by Indian Beach for a nice, relaxing day. This park is popular, so get there early.
More Information: Website
Group camp sites only at this relatively hidden gem. Great place for a picnic or day in the sand.
Price: $71/night for group tent site
More Information: Website
A lakeside campground located near the ocean and right in the heart of Lincoln City, there's plenty of privacy despite the close quarters and with all the action in nearby Lincoln City, who could pass this up. 54 tent sites and 10 yurts.
Price: $21/night for tent site; $31-33/night for standard; $47-62/night for yurt
More Information: Website
A small campground located just north of Tillcum Beach Campground, this area has 42 tent sites and two yurts with plenty of ocean views nearby.
Price: $21/night for tent site; $29-31/night for standard; $47-57/night for yurt
More Information: Website
Located along Cape Blanco on the southern Oregon coast, this park is located on the state's western-most tip and is home to many historic sites, including the Cape Blanco Lighthouse and Historic Hughes House. There are eight miles of hiking trails and a seven-mile trail for horses as well.
Price: $26/night for standard site; $43-61/night for cabin; $71/night for group tent
More Information: Website
Located at the end of Cape Arago Highway around 15 miles south of Coos Bay, this gem is a beautiful place to visit and spot wildlife. No camping is available, unfortunately, but you can stay at nearby Sunset Bay State Park.
More Information: Website
21. Cape Perpetua
Just south of Yachats and one of the most beautiful places you will ever see. The campground is located along Cape Creek with nearby access to Haceta Beach and 23 miles of trails surrounding the campground.
Price: $23/night for tent or standard site; $125/night for group standard
More Information: Website
Final Thoughts on Camping the Oregon Coast
There you have it! As you can see Oregon has a lot to offer, so get out there and enjoy the coast. Most parks have hot showers and restrooms, but check the oregonstateparks.org website of each site for additional information.
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“The mountains are calling and I must go.”
— John Muir