Camping near Agate Beach involves navigating the unique Oregon coast climate, where summer fog can reduce temperatures to the mid-60s even during July and August. Winter camping brings significant rainfall with December averaging 10-12 inches of precipitation. Most dispersed camping options require at least a 15-minute drive inland from the immediate coastal areas surrounding Agate Beach.
What to do
Beach fossil hunting: Explore the shoreline at Beverly Beach State Park Campground where marine fossils are abundant. "Literally everywhere on this beach. 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," notes Erik C.
Kayaking on Devils Lake: Located within Lincoln City, Devil's Lake State Recreation Area Campground offers non-motorized boat access. "There is access down a long point/dock for non motorized boats," reports Annie C. The lake provides a calmer alternative to ocean activities.
Crabbing: The Port of Newport Marina is accessible from Port of Newport RV Park & Marina. "We arrived late and accidentally went to the wrong section. The staff in the morning were super nice and helped us with everything. You are right off the marina and could crab and fish to your hearts content," shares nathan K.
What campers like
Forested privacy: At Beachside State Recreation Site, the wooded campsites create natural separation between neighbors. "Forested campsites, some of them are pretty close together, but overall a pretty good spot. Lots of trees, bushes between sites that make it feel more secluded," explains Darin D.
Educational programs: Beverly Beach State Park Campground offers learning opportunities for younger visitors. "Nice educational programs for kids. Firewood conveniently available," mentions Kristen W.
Trail system access: South Beach State Park provides paved pathways for walking and cycling. "Near a great walk path (paved) and easy access to the beach. This is a great campground and very kid friendly!!" writes Brian P.
What you should know
Site flooding concerns: Some campgrounds experience seasonal flooding. At Devil's Lake, "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," warns Blake F.
Forest Road limitations: For those seeking free camping options, Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek has significant access challenges. "Narrow and unpaved road. Very narrow, My trailer could barely fit through and there was only a three-way intersection inside to make a U-turn, otherwise my trailer wouldn't be able to get out!" cautions Leo Y.
Mosquito presence: South Beach State Park requires insect protection. "This is the second largest St park in Oregon. The place rocks. Mosquitos were bad this year so bring bug spray," advises Brian C.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access evaluation: Assess beach access points for family capability. At Tillicum Beach Campground, "Camp hosts were amazing only one issue I found is it can be hard to make it down to the beach if you are not in great shape. Big rocks to climb over and down to make it to the beach definitely not ADA accessible," notes Heather L.
Campsite positioning: At Beachside State Recreation Site, sites nearest to Highway 101 experience road noise. "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.
Weather preparation: Oregon coast temperatures remain moderate even in summer. "It was nice flat ground and easy access to the beach through the campground. The surroundings were aesthetically beautiful and a quant little store near the entrance," reports Tiffany E. at Beverly Beach, though she cautions "when full, it can get loud."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Check length restrictions carefully. At Tillicum Beach Campground, "We had reserved space 46 based on a good review and then realized that we are too long for that site. 30' means 30' (total, truck AND trailer)," explains Kelly H.
Dump station access: Many campgrounds lack onsite dump stations. For Newport-area camping, Port of Newport RV Park offers "a free dump station for campers. There was non-potable water at the dump station, but I am sure they would also let you fill your tanks with potable water," according to Laura M.
Hookup types: Electric service varies between campgrounds. At Thousand Trails Whalers Rest, one camper mentioned, "The campground is divided into a north and south side. We stayed on the south side with concrete pads that were nestled in between trees. We were here during significant rainfall and appreciated not being in mud."
