Dispersed camping near Alsea offers several options within the Siuslaw National Forest at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 feet. The area receives substantial rainfall from November through April, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping season. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most sites outside established campgrounds, with Hult Pond and forest service roads providing free primitive sites.
What to do
Creek exploration: 1/2 mile trail access at Creekside Retreat at Triangle Lake leads to clear water perfect for summer wading. "The creek itself runs clear and clean, winding through wooded banks lined with smooth stones and bathed in dappled sunlight that dances and sparkles on the water's surface," notes Jill W.
Beach fossil hunting: Drive 45 minutes west to Beverly Beach State Park Campground for unique geological finds. "FOSSILS! 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," reports Erik C.
Kayaking: No motors allowed at Hult Pond where the still water makes for easy paddling. "The pond was great for kayaking and there is plenty to explore if you aren't worried about a little elevation in your hike," writes Nicki G.
Fishing opportunities: Catch largemouth bass in the local ponds and waterways. Brandon A. shares, "The area is beautiful lots of privacy and the fishing was pretty decent caught three largemouth bass."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Beachside State Recreation Site offers natural separation between campsites. "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.
Quiet waterfront settings: The Alsea River provides peaceful camping environments with minimal crowds. MeLinda W. notes about Salmonberry, "It does well to provide a quiet place out of the sun next to the Alsea River. Some wading pools but fairly nondescript."
Alternative glamping options: Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park Campground provides glamping in Alsea region with yurt accommodations. As Shari P. describes, "rough it or not up to you. Yurts and full hookup sites as well as beautiful secluded tent sites."
No reservation required: Some locations operate first-come, first-served. "You can't make reservations, it's first come first serve. Quiet. No or spotty cell service with at&t. SUPER close to beach, just a short hike on their trail," mentions Wendy M. about Carl G. Washburne.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Hult Pond Recreation Area and surrounding areas have no connectivity. "We lost cell service about an hour before we even got there, and didn't have any the whole time there. There are some really cool spots that were taken. Would come again, but there's no cell service at all so I'd plan accordingly," warns Grace A.
Pack out all trash: Most dispersed sites lack garbage facilities. "They have a bathroom which is a plus but no trash cans so please whatever you pack in make sure to pack it out. Seeing trash in beautiful places always ruin it a little," reminds Dax S.
Mosquito preparation: Coastal campgrounds can have significant insect activity. "Mosquitos were bad this year so bring bug spray. Also make sure you book a head because it always is booked from June to October," advises Brian C.
Limited RV maneuverability: Large vehicles may struggle in some areas. Dillon & Soren A. caution, "We have a 38 foot rv. We got stuck in a ditch. Rv almost tipped over trying to u turn… if you go down the main lower path you will find a area big enough to u turn! Dont do it until then!"
Tips for camping with families
Educational beach programs: South Beach State Park Campground offers activities for children. "They have wifi if you need it, and plenty of games to keep anyone entertained, if camping isn't already enough," shares Sonja O.
Playground access: Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park has dedicated play areas. Nicole L. reports, "The campground had a playground for kids, a small free library and ranger station with a couple of souvenirs of the area. The campground offers firewood to buy and extra ice."
Yurt accommodations: Family glamping near Alsea provides easier transitions for young children or during inclement weather. "I have a toddler and it ended up being so helpful with the weather being a bit rainy and getting some creature comforts while still enjoying nature. The yurt comes with a bunk bed, pull out couch, small table with 2 chairs and a heater," explains Nicole L.
Wildlife spotting opportunities: Many campgrounds offer bird watching possibilities. Debbie I. mentions, "We seen stellar jays and a woodpecker. Bathrooms and showers were clean."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Waldport KOA provides full-service sites. "They have a few full hookup RV sites that have an unbeatable view of Alsea Bay and the Pacific Ocean, but they reserve fast," Steve H. notes.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "Clean, safe, and quiet. Well maintained campgrounds, as are all Oregon parks. Great reservation system. 30 and 50 amp electric, water and sewer at the site (Full hookups). Great dump station across the highway," explains D37.
Site size considerations: Many older parks have limited space for larger rigs. "Back in spaces, so a 40 foot RV would barely fit. This is an older but well maintained campground," cautions D37.
Seasonal access limitations: Most full-service campgrounds operate year-round, while others close seasonally. Chloe shares about Hult Pond, "About an 1 hour from Corvallis but worth it if you can go at a good time! No service but great from a seclusion! So remember all games and firewood you need!!"
