Beverly Beach and South Beach State Parks near Agate Beach offer distinct camping experiences along the Oregon coast. Sites in these parks sit at sea level, typically between 10-50 feet above the shoreline. The region receives about 80 inches of rainfall annually, with most campgrounds remaining open year-round despite wet winter conditions from November through February. Fog frequently rolls in during summer mornings, burning off by midday.
What to Do
Fossil hunting at Beverly Beach: The shoreline features abundant marine fossils embedded in cliff faces and scattered among beach rocks. "Nearly every rock and cliff face is littered with marine fossils of varying types and sizes and you can often find individual fossilized shells that can be collected," reports Erik C. from Beverly Beach State Park Campground.
Swimming at Moonshine Park: Located inland from the coast, this park offers freshwater swimming options. "The main attraction is the quarry like swim hole. Good beach, great jumping cliff, Rapids suitable for kids to shoot," notes MeLinda W. from Moonshine Park. The park features paved pathways for bikes and multiple recreation areas.
Storm watching in winter: The off-season provides unique coastal experiences. "Cabins are safe and stormproof for great storm watching in winter/spring months," says Vicki T. about glamping accommodations at Cape Lookout. Winter brings dramatic wave displays and fewer crowds to glamping sites close to Agate Beach, Oregon.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Unlike the exposed yurt areas described in other listings, many campsites offer seclusion. "We tent camped and LOVED having bushes separate each tent site. Really enjoyed having privacy!" explains D Robert B. from Waldport KOA. Natural vegetation creates individual spaces at many campgrounds.
Beach access variety: Campgrounds provide different beach experiences. "There are RV sites tent, sites, yachts, and a shower house," Mandi R. notes about Devil's Lake State Recreation Area Campground. Some sites feature direct beach paths while others require short drives to reach the ocean.
Wildlife viewing: Local fauna adds to the camping experience. "We seen stellar jays and a woodpecker," reports Debbie I. about Beverly Beach State Park. At Waldport KOA, visitors can take "a short walk down to the bay" where "cute little otters like to show off for the guests," according to Christie U.
What You Should Know
Mosquito preparation: Several campgrounds report persistent mosquito issues during summer months. "Mosquitos were bad this year so bring bug spray," warns Brian C. from South Beach State Park Campground. Multiple reviews mention this challenge, particularly at inland sites.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds sit close to Highway 101. "A little bit of road noise is the only downside," notes Jeff K. about Beachside State Recreation Site. Sites farther from the highway typically provide quieter environments for glamping near Agate Beach.
Seasonal flooding: Winter camping requires caution in certain areas. Blake F. from Devil's Lake warns, "If you plan on booking a trip in the late Fall/winter, be sure to call ahead of your trip. I've been here in the fall when more than half the campsites were flooded or filled with standing water."
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach exploration timing: Plan beach visits around tides. "Look up the tides though, since there's such a short beach to the water, during high tide the beach disappears," advises Trina C. from Cape Lookout State Park Campground. Tide tables are essential for safe family beach days.
Playground options: Several parks offer play structures. "Campground was clean and well kept. Was not very many people around during this time so it made it nice and peaceful. Just a quick walk to the beach from the camp site," explains Leigh-Anne H. about Beverly Beach State Park.
Indoor gathering spaces: For larger family groups, some parks offer meeting facilities. "We rented the meeting hall in C loop, and we were really impressed with the space! It had tables, chairs, a gas stove, kitchen sink, small fridge, microwave, outlets, and lots of counter space!" shares Trina C. about Cape Lookout, perfect for family gatherings during rainy weather.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully for the best experience. "If you can get a site near the beach that's ideal. A lot of the sites are right near the road which can be a bit loud," suggests Brittany B. about Beachside State Recreation Site. Specific loops often provide better noise buffers.
Off-season rates: Budget-conscious RVers benefit from seasonal pricing. "There are off season rates available for less cost. We paid $21 for a standard no hookup site the last time we were there in April, 2018," shares Judy T. about Devil's Lake, where glamping near Agate Beach becomes more affordable.
Hookup availability: Water and electrical access varies between campgrounds and specific sites. "Our site had water and electricity. There is a dump on site," reports Kellie T. about South Beach State Park, noting that despite having over 200 sites, the spaces felt reasonably sized.
