Tillamook State Forest offers tent camping opportunities throughout 364,000 acres of forested terrain near Beaver, Oregon. The area sits at elevations ranging from 750 to 3,600 feet with a coastal climate that receives approximately 70-120 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush vegetation and abundant stream access. Most sites feature direct river or creek proximity for fishing and swimming, though many remain inaccessible during winter months due to seasonal road closures or conditions.
What to do
Swimming and wading spots: Jones Creek Campground provides excellent river access with varying depths for different comfort levels. According to one visitor, "The river is where it's at, folks are swimming, tubing and fishing dawn to dusk. Folks jumping off the bridge and having picnics." During summer months, the creek maintains comfortable temperatures for extended water activities.
Hiking trails: Elk Creek Campground offers immediate access to challenging elevation hikes. A hiker notes, "If you are a glutton for punishment, set up camp and then hit up elk Mountain the hard way, 2,000 ft of elevation gain in less than 2 miles." The Wilson River Trail also connects many campgrounds with water features along moderate grades.
Crabbing and clam digging: Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina provides equipment rentals and licenses on-site. "There are boats to rent for crabbing and clamming and shellfish licenses for sale. The staff was very helpful and accommodating," reports one visitor. Early morning outings yield better results as tides affect accessibility.
What campers like
Natural swimming holes: Trask River County Park offers family-friendly water access. "There is a nice river and it's safe for the kids to run around," notes one camper. The water depth remains relatively consistent through summer, though early season flows can be faster and colder.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Tillamook County Whalen Island offers excellent bird and marine wildlife observation areas. A camper shares, "Amazing place to stay and just comb the beach, camp and take in a few trails and wildlife." Morning hours provide the best sightings when wildlife activity increases.
Cell service breaks: Many forest camping areas lack reliable connectivity. "It's nice to disconnect from cell phones," notes a Trask River visitor. Tillamook State Forest dispersed sites have essentially no service coverage, while coastal options occasionally receive limited signals in specific locations.
What you should know
Tidal fluctuations: Tillamook County Whalen Island experiences significant water level changes. "The tides are extreme in this area when out or in, and can flood the parking lot," warns one camper. Always check tide tables and park vehicles on higher ground during overnight stays.
Site density variations: Camp layouts differ significantly between locations. At Netarts Bay, "Spots 1-27 are the tightest I have ever seen, so try to avoid them. 52-58 are right on the Bay, and pretty sizable." Arrive early for better site selection at non-reservation campgrounds.
Water access challenges: Many sites require walking to reach water features. At Keenig Creek Campground, "Hard to get to the river. You definitely have to go up/down a trail to get to it. It rained the night before, so the path was pretty muddy." Prepare for potentially slippery conditions, especially after rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Consider covered wagons: Twins Ranch LLC offers unique covered wagon accommodations that appeal to history-minded children. "If you have a kid who loves history, the Oregon Trail, Little House on the Prairie, and dressing in character, this is your spot!" Each wagon accommodates up to four people and includes bedding platforms.
Find playground equipment: Some campgrounds include constructed play areas. Trask River County Park features "Nice swing set and grassy areas for kids or pets to run around." Morning wildlife viewing opportunities sometimes include elk grazing in open areas.
Select walk-in sites for safety: Tent camping areas without vehicle traffic provide safer environments for young children. "Trask River Campground is 20 minutes away from Tillamook. You will have no service whatsoever up at the campground but that's what camping is for, to enjoy your time outdoors!" Walk-in sites typically cost $10-15 per night.
Tips from RVers
Space limitations: RV camping near Beaver requires careful site selection. At Netarts Bay RV Park, "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." Length restrictions exist at most forested campgrounds, with few options for vehicles over 35 feet.
Limited hookups: North Fork Trask dispersed camping areas provide no services. "Super big spots off side of forest roads. Nice and quiet back there other than locals and loggers through the night." Pack sufficient water, as many forest locations lack potable sources even at developed sites.
Weather considerations: Coastal locations experience different weather patterns than inland forest campgrounds. "Very clean RV site with views of the bay and inland views. 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." Consider fog patterns when selecting between coastal and inland tent camping near Beaver, Oregon.
