Post Overview: Best Camping + Campgrounds at the Oregon Coast
Like most lifelong Oregonians, I’ve spent my fair share of time basking in the glory of the mighty Oregon Coast.
Childhood memories of sandy toes and sunburns miraculously soothed by Tillamook ice cream have made me realize just how lucky I was to spend most of my summers relaxing and camping at the Oregon Coast.
Years later, my travels have taken me to jaw-dropping scenic wonders the world over and yet nothing beats the nostalgia of my home state’s jagged coastline and the liberating smell of an old-growth forest neighboring the sea.
I have a soft spot in my heart for dense foggy beaches and rock outcroppings as far as the eye can see.
I attribute this weakness to my mother’s love for the Oregon Coast — we spent most summer weekends at the beach growing up.
So yes, this post about the best camping at the Oregon Coast was an absolute delight to write, I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it!
Who am I and why should you trust my list of the best campgrounds at the Oregon Coast?
I’m a lifelong Oregonian! I was raised in Portland and spent most of my childhood weekends camping at the Oregon Coast.
Shortly after meeting my husband we embarked on a whirlwind tour of Oregon state — visiting every corner and popping off at every small coastal town we passed.
My husband films national parks and forests for a living (I know, I can’t believe that can be a real job either) and so we spend a lot of time in nature.
We both thoroughly enjoy living Oregon and took it upon ourselves to find the best campgrounds at the Oregon Coast to share with anyone interested in planning a trip to our beloved state.
Tips for Camping at the Oregon Coast
Practice Leave No Trace
- If you’re unfamiliar with Leave No Trace, it’s a measure to be a good steward of the land. You can read about the seven principals of Leave No Trace here.
Oregon Coast Camping Reservations
- Make no mistake, the Oregon Coast is a popular place, therefore making reservations for camping at the Oregon Coast is strong encouraged (if not altogether required during the summer months). I will link the reservation sites for each of the Oregon Coast campgrounds I list below to make your trip planning a bit easier.
You + Sunscreen = Best Friends (Forever)
- I’ve been sunburned at the Oregon Coast more times than I can count (I should have listened to my mother) — the fog is misleading! I finally found this sunscreen and never leave the house without it, highly recommend it.
Essential Oregon Coast Camping Gear
My husband and I are avid hikers and have continued my family’s tradition of camping at the Oregon Coast during summer. Over the past five years we’ve finely honed our list of camping gear essentials. Here’s our “holy grail” camping products.
Camping stove
- This is the only camping stove we use. We’re on our second one after the first one wore out after 4+ years of constant use. For a mere $45 it’s impossible to beat. For longer trips (2-4 weeks) we use this camping stove.
Jetboil
- I’m guessing the uber-famous Jetboil needs no introduction, it’s an essential camping item for anyone that can’t function without coffee (raises hand). We’ve been using ours for nine years and would probably buy one on the road if we left ours at home.
Our tent
- We don’t get too fancy with our tents, here’s the one we’ve been using the past two years. It’s light, unfussy, inexpensive and gets the job done. What more could you ask for?
Hammocks, sleeping bags and sleeping mats, oh my!
- Again, nothing too fancy here either. Here’s my reliable sleeping bag, sleeping mat and hammock. I usually bring a pillow from home while camping but if you prefer to have an actual camping pillow, knock yourself out!
Camping chair
- My cousin got me hooked on these tiny camping chairs and they are an absolute game changer because I hate bulky camping gear. These are lightweight and compact, highly recommend if you need camping chairs otherwise use what you have!
Best Campgrounds at the Oregon Coast
1. Cape Lookout State Park Campground
Image courtesy of Oregon Live
Driving the Three Capes Scenic Route is one of the best things to do at the Oregon Coast and since Cape Lookout State Park is conveniently located in the heart of the coast’s arresting landscape, there’s no good reason to skip spending a night at one of the most beautiful campgrounds on the Oregon Coast.
Offering more than 200 campsites, a handful of pet-friendly yurts and deluxe cabins, the Cape Lookout State Park campground is a favorite amongst visitors and locals alike.
The proximity to the ocean is hard to beat and the calming sound of the ocean lulling campers to sleep is all but guaranteed at this epic Oregon Coast campground.
Full of breathtaking views and great camping amenities, it’s not hard to see why so many folks consider this one of the absolute best campgrounds at the Oregon Coast, especially for RV camping!
All overnight visitors have access to free showers and clean restrooms.
Cape Lookout State Park Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 170 tent sites, 35 RV sites with hookups, 13 rustic yurts, 6 deluxe cabins, 2 group tent sites
- Fees: $21 per night for tent site, yurts are $52 per night
- Campground amenities: Hot showers, flushing toilets, drinking water
- Reservations: Required, read more here.
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2. Humbug Mountain State Park Campground
The Humbug Mountain State Park campground offers 56 tent sites and 39 electric and water hookup sites for anyone interested in camping at the Oregon Coast.
Because this campground sits at the base of Humbug Mountain, you’ll notice that the campsite is protected from the natural elements and has calmer weather conditions.
The biggest selling points of this Oregon Coast campground are the great amenities (hot showers, flushing toilets) and accessibility to the beach.
The only drawback is the proximity to the Oregon Coast Highway because the road noise is audible and I prefer the sound of crashing waves to cars while camping at the Oregon Coast.
But the pros definitely outweigh the cons and I always enjoy camping here.
Humbug Mountain State Park Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 56 tent sites, 39 electric and water hookup sites
- Fees: $18 for tent site, $26 for electric and water hookup sites
- Campground amenities: Hot showers, flushing toilets
- Reservations: Yes, read more here.
3. South Beach State Park | Newport, Oregon Campground
Located in Newport, the South Beach State Park Campground is one of the largest campgrounds at the Oregon Coast. Offering 60 roomy tent sites, 27 yurts, 3 large group sites and hiker/biker campsites, there’s room for everybody!
Plus, the location can’t be beat. Sitting pretty at the mouth of the Yaquina Bay Jetty, the area is ripe for exploration.
We personally enjoying crabbing and clamming in the mornings and hiking one of the numerous trails the afternoons. We don’t personally fish but have notice tons of folks out on the water when we stay here.
This is one of the best family-friendly campsites at the Oregon Coast due to its proximity to the Oregon Coast Aquarium (less than two miles away) and the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse (also two miles away), both are great stops for kids!
South Beach State Park Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 225 electrical sites with water, 60 tent sites, 27 yurts, 3 large group sites
- Fees: $21 for tent site, $47 for yurt, $62 for pet-friendly yurt
- Campground amenities:
- Reservations possible? Yes, read more here.
- Pet friendly? Yes, 14 pet-friendly yurts
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4. Umpqua Lighthouse State Park Campground
Image courtesy of Outdoor Project
Offering 23 tent sites, eight yurts, two log cabins and 12 RV-hookup sites, the campground at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park is on the smaller size, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in a great camping experience!
It’s no wonder this is one of the best-reviewed campsites at the Oregon Coast.
Six of the eight yurts are considered deluxe and come equipped with a refrigerator, sink, microwave, bathroom and shower. As you can imagine, the yurts get reserved quickly so you’ll need to plan in advance (and cross your fingers!).
This great Oregon campsite sits near Lake Marie, a freshwater lake that offers ample water sport opportunities like swimming, boating and fishing.
What’s more, this campground neighbors Oregon Sand Dune National Monument (the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America).
Most visitors at this Oregon campground choose to stay here over other campsites because of the proximity to the Umpqua River Lighthouse, a mere stone’s throw from the campground and a great easy day hike offering panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean.
Umpqua Lighthouse State Park Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 23 tent sites, 12 full RV hook-ups, 8 yurts, 2 log cabins
- Fees: $19 for tent site, $43 for yurt, $43 for cabin
- Campground amenities: Hot showers, flushing toilets, access to freshwater lake, hiking trails
- Reservations possible? Yes WEBSITE
- Pet friendly? Yes — two yurts and one cabin are pet friendly
5. Nehalem Bay State Park Campground
Sitting upon a four-mile sand split that separates the Pacific Ocean from Nehalem Bay lies Nehalem Bay State Park, home to one of the best campgrounds along the Oregon Coast.
Easy beach access and ample campsites to choose from, this campground accommodates tent campers, RV campers and offers yurts as well. The best part?
The great camping amenities like hot showers, running water and flush-able toilets make this a great option for anyone interested in “glamping” at the Oregon Coast.
If you’re looking to explore a charming Oregon Coast town during your stay, head north to Manzanita for a fun afternoon. It’s one of the most pet-friendly towns along the Oregon Coast, so bring your cute pooch with!
Nehalem Bay State Park Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 265 sites with electricity and water, 18 rustic yurts (9 pet-friendly)
- Fees: $31 for standard site, $52 for yurt,$62 pet-friendly yurt
- Campground amenities: Hot showers, flush toilets, drinking water
- Reservations: Strongly recommended, especially during summer. Read more here.
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6. Fort Stevens State Park Campground
Astoria, Oregon is one of the most charming towns along the Oregon Coast. Fort Stevens State Park sits at the very tip of northwest Oregon and has one of the largest campgrounds on the Oregon Coast.
Even though this campground has 300 tent sites and 150 RV sites, it’s a well known commodity and the campsites fill up fast, especially during the summer months.
Hot showers, running water and flushing toilets are provided to campers alongside an amphitheater that swells with restless kiddos while parents plan the day’s events.
Fort Stevens was an actual military fort in its heyday so if you’re a history buff, you’re going to LOVE camping here. Pop into the visitor center for information about the fort’s past before embarking on a self-guided tour through various bunkers and barracks.
When you get your fill of impressive military history, head to the notable Peter Iredale shipwreck, one of the best stops along the Oregon Coast!
Fort Stevens State Park Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 300 electrical sites with water, 15 rustic yurts (7 pet-friendly), 11 deluxe cabins (5 pet-friendly)
- Fees: $32-$35 for full hookup sites, $22 for tent site, $54 for yurt, $64 for pet-friendly yurt, $98 for delux cabin, $108 for pet-friendly cabin
- Campground amenities:
- Reservations: Required, reserve here.
- Pet friendly? Yes
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7. Harris Beach State Park Campground
Breathtaking views is the name of the game here, folks. Located a stone’s throw from the epic Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor lies Harris Beach State Park and a great Oregon Coast campground that meets high expectations.
There’s 60 tent sites and 90 RV sites, each site comes with a paved parking spot, fire-ring and picnic table. Drinking water, flushing toilets and showers are also provided.
These amenities paired with the jaw-dropping views of easily accessible nearby viewpoints makes it easy to see why this is one of the best campgrounds at the Oregon Coast!
Harris Beach State Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 65 full hookup sites, 60 tent sites, 6 rustic yurts (1 pet-friendly)
- Fee: $35 per night
- Campground amenities: Hot showers, drinking water, flush toilets, picnic tables, fire-rings
- Reservations: Read more here.
8. Tillicum Beach Campground at the Oregon Coast
Image courtesy of Outdoor Project
Tillicum Beach Campground is one of my favorite campgrounds at the Oregon Coast because it’s right on the beach which is a rare treat! One of the few campgrounds where you can watch sunset (and sunrise) from your campsite.
Ample wildlife viewing opportunities and great amenities all but guarantee that these coveted 36 tent and car camping sites get reserved in a snap, so reservations are highly recommended during the spring and summer months.
Note: This Oregon Coast campsite is especially desirable during whale migration because the whale watching opportunities are hard to beat. You can see the whales from the shore!
Tillicum Beach Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 36 tent and car camping sites
- Fee: $23 – $30 per night
- Campground amenities: Flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings and grills
- Reservations: Yes, read more here.
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9. Wright’s for Camping at the Oregon Coast
It’s no secret that Cannon Beach is the most famous beach on the Oregon Coast and thankfully the Wright’s for Camping campground is located right next to Cannon Beach, making it a no-brainer for anyone eager to camp next withing a half-mile from the Tufted Puffins at Haystack Rock.
Wright’s for Camping is a family-owned campground that has been in operation since 1959. Offering 22 camping sites, hot showers, drinking water and laundry on-site (coin-operated), this is great camping spot on the Oregon Coast for families with children.
Wrights for Camping Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 22 tent sites
- Fee: $42 per night
- Campground amenities: Hot showers, laundry, flushing toilets
- Reservations possible? Yes, read more here.
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10. Tillamook Head Backpackers Camping at the Oregon Coast
Tillamook Head Backpackers Camp is a rustic campsite located on Indian Beach near Ecola State Park. One of the most picturesque campgrounds on the Oregon Coast, this is my go-to campsite whenever I find myself in northern Oregon because it’s one of the few rare free campsites at the Oregon Coast.
This first-come, first-served campground is free because there’s no vehicle access and reaching the campsite requires a moderate 4.5 mile hike (1,200 feet of elevation gain).
What’s more, there’s no running water so it’s not an ideal campground for children with families.
But what this campground lacks in amenities it makes up for in solitude. It’s a great campground on the Oregon Coast for anyone looking to escape crowds.
Grassy bluffs, moss laden hiking trails, scenic vistas and a free campsite. What more could a gal ask for?
Tillamook Head Backpackers Camping at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 3 cabins (4 wooden bunks per cabin), 1 tent site
- Fee: FREE! One of the few free campgrounds at the Oregon Coast
- Campground amenities: Vault toilets, picnic pavilion
- Reservations: No, first-come, first-served camping only.
11. Sunset Bay State Park Campground
Image courtesy of Wikipedia
Sunset Bay State Park is known for calm waters thanks to the bay that protects the area from harsh coastal weather conditions.
The Sunset Bay State Park Campground is located right next to the beach and is a great option for anyone interested in exploring Coos Bay.
The campground offers accommodations for tent campers, RVs and hikers/bikers and great amenities like hot showers, flushing toilets and running water.
29 full hookup sites 34 electrical and water hookup sites 66 individual tent sites 2 group tent areas 8 rustic yurts. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED
Sunset Bay State Park Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 29 full hookup sites, 66 tent sites, 2 group tent sites, 8 rustic yurts
- Fee: $19 (tents) – $33 (full hookup)
- Campground amenities: Hot showers, flushing toilets, running water
- Reservations: Required, read more here.
12. Rock Creek Campground at the Oregon Coast
Located within Siuslaw National Forest, the Rock Creek Campground is another great family-friendly campground at the Oregon Coast. Each site is equipped with a campfire ring and picnic tables. Vault toilets and running water are also available.
Birding and fishing is the name of the game at this lovely campground. Bring the family and enjoy a relaxing weekend camping at the Oregon Coast! The Cape Perpetua Visitor Center is a few miles north of this campground and is absolutely worth a visit!
Rock Creek Campground at the Oregon Coast
- Camping sites: 13 tent sites
- Fee: $24
- Campground amenities: Picnic tables, vault toilets, running water, campfire rings, grills
- Reservations: Read more here.
- Pet friendly? Yes
List of Best Oregon Coast Campsites (Post Summary)
In sum, these are the best campgrounds at the Oregon Coast
- Cape Lookout State Park Campground
- Humbug Mountain State Park Campground
- South Beach State Park Campground
- Umpqua Lighthouse State Park Campground
- Nehalem Bay State Park Campground
- Fort Stevens State Park Campground
- Harris Beach State Park Campground
- Tillicum Oregon Beach Campground
- Wrights for Camping
- Tillamook Head Backpackers Camping
- Sunset Bay State Park Campground
- Rock Creek Campground
Map of the best Oregon coast camping spots
Further Reading
Make no mistake, you can find great camping near the Oregon Coast!
Until next time,
Antonina
Been to most of these with full hookups for RVing cuzz we are old retired folks and our bodies don’t do tents anymore. Everywhere we camp on the Oregon coast is golden. You recommended a couple we haven’t tried….thank you! We will check them out as well. Great article. BTW, you probably already knew, but Nehalem Bay also offers a camping area for equestrians. So fun to ride your own horse on the beach. Bullard’s Beach down south also has horse camping. Maybe there are more, I have only been to those two. Thanks again for touting the beauties of the Oregon Coast!
What about Bullards state park
Great article. Thanks for all of this information. Until I can move to Oregon (from the East, not the South?) I’m having to be content with visiting. We have been to Bullard State Park many times and love it. How would you compare Bullards to the other campgrounds on your list? I’d love to hear your perspective. Thanks!
Beverly Beach is better than South Beach, both are in Newport.
Beverly Beach, Jesse Honeyman, and Tugman are also great campgrounds!
One thing you didn’t mention, and perhaps not realized but non-residents have to pay 25% more for their campsites.
We live in Washington state and have camped every September at Nehalem Bay State Park for the past 16 years. Last year we stayed for 10 days and didn’t pay over $280, this year however our reservation for 10 days totaled $390 not including $8 fee. Imagine my shock! I dig deeper and that is when I saw that non-residents are charged 25% more. We’re still going but still a bit stunned.
Definitely missing Cape Blanco
This is what you called to adventure but the best part of the experience is the journey going to these places. Amazing places. Thank you for sharing.