Campsites around Arch Cape stretch along Oregon's northern coast between Cannon Beach and Manzanita, offering year-round camping opportunities despite frequent winter rainfall averaging 100 inches annually. Winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing in this maritime climate zone, making glamping close to Arch Cape, Oregon feasible even during off-seasons. Coastal campgrounds typically experience morning fog patterns clearing by midday, especially during summer months.
What to do
Beach exploration during minus tides: Nehalem Bay State Park Campground provides access to prime razor clamming spots. "Great location - Go crabbing at Kelly's and then horseback riding on the beach!" notes Jean M. about the recreational opportunities directly from camp.
Fishing and crabbing: Jetty Fishery Marina & RV Park offers equipment rentals for crabbing excursions. "We rented a RV spot for 78$ a night which I'm OK with and then we wanted to go on the dock and crab," shares one visitor, noting that dock access is available until 6pm for overnight guests.
Historical exploration: Fort Stevens State Park Campground features preserved military installations. "Visiting the forts and cannons are fun. Bring mosquito repellent!" advises Gail S. The park includes interpretive displays about coastal defense systems dating back to the Civil War.
Trail hiking with ocean views: Cape Disappointment offers lighthouse visits alongside forested trails. "There are two lighthouses in the park, trails, jetty, and an interpretative center," notes Christina F., who visited with her toddler who easily managed the walk to the beach.
What campers like
Secluded walk-in sites: Tillamook State Forest Nehalem Falls Campground features tent sites away from vehicle areas. "You park the car about 50 feet away and bring your gear in... The tent sites are very private and right on the Nehalem River which is warm enough to swim in," shares Spencer C.
Coastal shrubbery barriers: Wright's for Camping offers natural vegetation between sites. "Trees and surrounding area are beautiful. We appreciate that the staff are so welcoming and kind," notes Bethany M., who camped with her 18-month-old son.
Off-season tranquility: Thousand Trails Seaside provides winter camping opportunities. "We went there to get away from the heat, inland area. It's usually 20-30 degrees cooler than inland. So when the heat hits the valley, everyone runs to the coastline," observes Tracy, highlighting how coastal temperatures moderate inland extremes.
Diverse accommodation options: Many parks offer both basic and premium sites. "We've lived in oregon forever but never visited this park. rv spots are nice and level but not much privacy between spaces. very nice setup with yurts right across the drive from rvs in loop a," notes a visitor about Nehalem Bay's varied lodging arrangements.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Winter camping requires preparation for frequent rainfall. "We rate it a 6," notes Melissa L. about Thousand Trails Seaside. "Close to town. Has a nice pool and Jacuzzi, but not quiet nor private. Noisy from highway and neighbors."
Reservation timelines: Popular glamping sites near Arch Cape book months ahead. "Reserve early, as there are many repeat campers here who book the next year before they leave," advises a visitor at Wright's for Camping.
Site privacy variations: Cape Lookout State Park Campground offers varying levels of seclusion. "Most of the tent sites are fairly open, some of them have more privacy, but all of them are very green and incredibly close to the beach while still being somewhat protected from the wind coming off of the ocean," explains Denny B.
Military ID requirements: Camp Rilea Military Campground requires specific identification. "The only caviat is that you must have military ID to utilize the campground," explains Tonya D., noting the campground's limited access policy for civilians.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Fort Stevens State Park includes child-friendly recreation areas. "So much for kids to do from exploring, riding bikes, fishing and going to the amphitheater for some stories," notes Jenny M., who recommends "being prepared for any type of weather rain or shine."
Beach access difficulty: Beach trails vary significantly between campgrounds. "We took the kids and stroller and walked under the highway on the path/sidewalk that eventually got us down to the beach," reports Casey R. about Wright's for Camping, noting the sidewalks accommodate strollers.
Protected swimming areas: Inland water bodies offer alternatives to rough ocean conditions. "There is a man made burm that keeps some wind from coming into the campground," explains a visitor at Cape Lookout, noting how this feature creates more sheltered conditions for families with young children.
Laundry facilities: Cape Disappointment State Park Campground provides amenities for longer family stays. "Spacious sites you can reserve and electric/water etc. There is even an area for hiker and bikers," notes Alicia F.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many coastal sites require additional equipment. "The gravel site was not level, and we had to use blocks," reports a visitor about Thousand Trails Seaside, noting the practical considerations needed for parking larger vehicles.
Water pressure variations: Coastal water systems often deliver high pressure. "The water pressure was around 60 psi, so we used a reducer," notes an RVer about campground utilities, highlighting the need for pressure regulators to protect RV plumbing.
Winter storm preparation: Wind exposure affects different campground loops differently. "We had a place along the wedge and it appeared to be less windy. That's totally anecdotal, though," shares C M. about Nehalem Bay State Park, suggesting site selection strategies for weather protection.
Signal reception limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between coastal campgrounds. "I got zero reception in the campground. I use Verizon," reports Christina F. about Cape Disappointment, informing visitors to plan accordingly for limited communication options.
