The Brookings area sits at sea level along Oregon's southern coast, with summer temperatures averaging 65-70°F and significantly higher temperatures 8 miles inland along the Chetco River. Winter camping near Brookings brings frequent rainfall from November through April, with many campgrounds remaining open year-round. Annual precipitation reaches approximately 70-80 inches in the surrounding coastal forests.
What to do
Tide pool exploration at Harris Beach: During low tide, access tide pools containing diverse marine life. "We saw hundreds of hermit crabs, anemone, starfish, sculpin, and more. Sunsets are also phenomenal," notes a visitor to Harris Beach State Park Campground.
River swimming at Loeb: The Chetco River provides clear water swimming spots with warmer temperatures than the ocean beaches. "The Chetco is the most gorgeous river I have ever been lucky enough to swim in... I swam for hours, walked into camp for a hot shower & dinner, stared up at the stars before bed," shares one camper at Alfred A. Loeb State Park Campground.
Redwoods day trips: Drive 25-30 minutes to experience old-growth redwood forests. "Near the California and Oregon state lines. You can visit the state border and be in two states at once! Also, near Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park where you can see Redwoods (tallest trees on the planet)," reports a Harris Beach visitor.
Local markets: Visit weekend markets for fresh local produce and crafts. "There is a Saturday Market by the port and a Saturday Farmer's Market in Harbor. Both are fun to check out," according to a camper who stayed at Harris Beach.
What campers like
Beach access: Many campgrounds offer direct or nearby beach entry points. At Turtle Rock RV Resort, "The beach and creek access was so convenient," says a recent visitor who adds, "Make sure you visit Secret Beach during your stay, just a short drive down the road."
Peaceful riverside camping: Sites along the Chetco River provide a quieter alternative to beach camping. "We've been here both in summer and winter, and the winter months is by far better in our opinion. Summers are too hot, when you have the coast and the town of Brookings so close. But in the winter! We love this park. It was peaceful, the Chetco River is just gorgeous," explains a guest at Loeb State Park.
Clean facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain quality bathrooms and shower facilities. "The restroom and shower facilities are probably the best I've ever seen. Super new, well maintained, clean, and spacious. The Rangers do such a good job of cleaning them daily," shares a Harris Beach camper.
Proximity to town: Many camping areas near Brookings allow easy access to services. "Only 2 miles from Downtown Brookings where it's really convenient to pick up supplies or dine out. There is a large Fred Meyers nearby that is convenient," notes a Harris Beach visitor.
What you should know
Weather variations: Temperatures differ significantly between beach and inland sites. At Redwood Meadows RV Resort, "The campground is far enough inland way from the coast that the marine layer burned off much quicker so we had beautiful sunny days with a nice cool breeze."
Site selection matters: Research specific site numbers before booking. At Alfred A. Loeb, a camper recommends: "Avoid sites: 22- Floods, 33-If you have small children due to the water runoff being directly through the camp, 34- Floods, 36, 6 and 4-if tent camping it turns into one big wet spot."
Seasonal popularity: Summer months bring crowds to the most popular campgrounds. At Harris Beach, "we went in february and all but the tent sites was packed. not much privacy, but still worth a visit," explains one winter visitor.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely between locations. For Redwood Meadows RV Resort: "Cell phone coverage is spotty but they offer wifi and it allowed us a good chance to disconnect."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Harris Beach offers dedicated play areas for children. "Great campsite for kids and family. There is a fantastic playground and the Rangers hold Junior Ranger activities twice a day," notes one visitor.
Kid-friendly sites: Consider safety factors when selecting campsites. At AtRivers Edge RV Resort, "They have an awesome game area with volleyball nets, Bocce Ball and corn hole."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led programs. "The Ludlum House is a great place to go and escape the loud noises and bright lights. The yard around it is big enough for dogs to run around happily. There is a couple little trails around the house, one leads to a nice little Creek," explains a visitor to Ludlum House.
Multi-generational accommodations: Various camping cabins accommodate different family needs. "The Ludlum House is cozy and feels very homey. Bring your little family, or call in the siblings and cousins. It's a big, beautiful and peaceful place, for few or many to have a great time as a family or a company retreat."
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds provide sewer facilities. At Turtle Rock RV Resort, one camper notes, "The sites have full hookups including sewer and there is also a dump station. Cable TV hookups were a nice plus."
Site navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have tight turns or difficult access points. "The sites are well kept and plenty of space available for big rigs. Check weather conditions before coming here if its raining it gets really muddy," advises an RVer at Ramblin' Redwoods.
Winter camping considerations: While most campgrounds remain open year-round, service levels may change. At Alfred A. Loeb State Park, a winter visitor reports, "Summers are too hot, when you have the coast and the town of Brookings so close. But in the winter! We love this park. It was peaceful, the Chetco River is just gorgeous, lots of rain but if you're ok with that then this park is amazing."
Hookup variations: Sites offer different utility configurations. "There are 65 full hookup sites + 29 sites with electrical compared to the 54 tent sites available," explains a Harris Beach camper about the campground's layout.
