Coastal camping near Bay City, Oregon offers convenient access to the Tillamook County shoreline throughout all seasons. Most campgrounds sit at elevations below 100 feet, positioned strategically along Highway 101 and connecting roads. During off-peak seasons, campers experience fewer crowds while still enjoying mild temperatures that typically range from 40-65°F, though coastal fog is common year-round.
What to do
Crabbing on the bay: Jetty Fishery Marina & RV Park provides direct access to crabbing with rental equipment available. "You can rent items to go crabbing or just eat some of their fresh clams, oysters and crab. We did a bit both! Staff is friendly and hard working," reports Jaime K.
Beach walking from camp: Netarts Bay RV Park offers coastal access for recreation throughout the year. "I enjoyed walking my dogs out to see the birds, crabbers, and seals. I was there in a low season month and it was extremely peaceful," explains Pilar F., noting that "traffic along the adjacent road might be heavier in the summer months."
Fishing access: The Tillamook Bay area provides multiple fishing opportunities with camps offering direct water access. "It is a nice walk around and from the RV Park with the marina and harbor areas providing great views," notes Patrick J. about Harborview Inn and RV Park, which positions campers near productive fishing areas.
Sandboarding nearby: A short drive south leads to dune recreation opportunities. At Thousand Trails Pacific City, "the ocean is a 5 minute walk from the site and you can rent sandboards to ride down the dunes of Cape Kiwanda (it's a serious workout!)," according to Ryan E.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate spots with direct water views. "Sites 52-58 are right on the Bay, and pretty sizable," explains Josh H. about Netarts Bay RV Park. He also notes that "spots 1-27 are the tightest I have ever seen, so try to avoid them."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks highly in visitor satisfaction. "Very clean RV site with views of the bay and inland views," Pilar F. mentions about Netarts Bay. Another camper, Gintare, adds: "Great staff, clean showers and bathroom, beautiful location for a walk on the coast line."
Variety of accommodations: Beyond standard RV sites, many parks offer alternative lodging. Old Mill RV Resort provides 231 sites across its property. "We were in overflow so there was no privacy, no shade, no hookups and no fire," notes Alix J., who suggests that "if your only option is overflow I would try something else if possible."
Wildlife viewing: Natural elements enhance the camping experience. "Cozy, friendly an an amazing view of the Netarts Bay. Loved it so much that we went back next weekend," shares Taka about their stay at Netarts Bay RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal differences: Visitor experiences vary dramatically by season. "Fun spot on the Oregon coast. Very clean. Loved the spaces, cement pads for your outdoor living. Good Wi-Fi. Friendly staff," reports Pops A. about Netarts Bay RV Park during peak season.
Connectivity challenges: Cell service and internet access fluctuate throughout the region. At Netarts Bay RV Park, Julie F. explains: "The only reason it is not a 5 star is the lack of good Wi-fi. There is 'wi-fi' available, but you can only use it for email... We would probably come down more frequently and for longer stays if we had wi-fi as we both work remotely."
Site spacing: Most rv parks near Bay City, Oregon offer varying site dimensions. "The pull through sites are a bit narrow, but are adequate. The views and room around us was incredible until they filled up," notes Patrick J. about Harborview Inn and RV Park, also mentioning that "access roads around the sites are a bit tight, so moving slow is the best practice."
Reservation policies: Cancellation terms vary across parks. Jamie S. warns about Tillamook Bay City RV Park: "My daughter reserved and paid for a yurt there and then ended up having to cancel. She followed the policy for cancellations and per the policy should have received a refund. She has called and left VM and sent many e-mails without a response."
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly options: Many campgrounds welcome pets with specific restrictions. At Port of Tillamook Bay RV Park, Steve V. notes the bare-bones nature of the facility: "The most basic of campgrounds. $20 per night. No hookups. Restroom by office with toilet and sink (hot & cold water). No dump station."
Playground access: Some facilities provide recreational areas for children. "Nice place to rent. Full hookups, fire pit and table. Poolhouse and laundry facilities bathrooms and beach! We walked to the beach for a fantastic sunset!" reports Esther D. about her stay at Thousand Trails Pacific City, adding "didn't have the kids in this trip but they would have loved the play areas and bunnies!"
Budget-friendly options: Camping costs vary significantly. Jennifer D. mentions Port of Tillamook Bay RV Park's pricing: "$20 a night now. Windy, tents should choose sites near wind break/camp host."
Off-site activities: Numerous family attractions exist within short driving distances. "Garibaldi is a cute place to visit though. Also close to places like Tillamook where the creamery is which is a must see. There's also a festival called Garibaldi Days which is why we were there every year which you should totally check out if you're here late July," suggests Alix J.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RVers report varying experiences with site grading. "Flat paved rv sites, can see it getting crowded during peak season. Prices are on the higher end but you get what you pay for as they accommodate for fishing and crabbing," notes C. W. about Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina.
Utility reliability: Water, sewer, and electrical connections vary by location. "The site was close to level. Power stable. Recommend Power surge protector/monitor. The sewer worked well. The water pressure was a little low," explains Cande D. about Misty River RV Park.
Noise factors: Sound considerations impact site selection at rv parks near Bay City. "The park is in a beautiful location (right on a river) and staff is very nice. Cons: over half the park live there (and a couple residents were interesting…) and the highway noise is loud all night," reports G H. about their stay at Misty River RV Park.
Laundry facilities: On-site laundry availability varies. "Check in was very good. Explained directions to site, codes etc. The laundry room was clean with the washer and dryer looking very new," notes Patrick J. about Harborview Inn and RV Park.
