Cannon Beach camping areas feature diverse coastal accommodations throughout the year. Winter temperatures average 45°F with frequent rain, while summer brings mild 65-70°F days with lower precipitation. The camping region spans from Hammond in the north to Tillamook in the south, with most sites located within 5 miles of the shoreline.
What to do
Beach combing at low tide: Cape Disappointment State Park's sandy beaches offer excellent treasure hunting opportunities during morning low tides. "Walk to the beach to find treasures and sit to relax and just watch the waves. Very peaceful, and my teens loved it!" notes Kimberly T. about Cape Disappointment State Park Campground.
Crabbing experiences: The Jetty Fishery Marina provides equipment rentals for visitors wanting to catch fresh seafood. "We did ok not great and we cook our own. There is a stocked store, firewood and crabbing. Also Boat rentals," explains Elizabeth R. about Jetty Fishery Marina & RV Park.
Hiking through coastal forests: The Nehalem Falls trail system offers easy walking routes suitable for all skill levels. "The entire hike is a pretty easy and birding opportunities are many. Views of an old railroad/camp and plenty of spots to stop and take it all in as well as picnic," shares Deacon J. about Tillamook State Forest Nehalem Falls Campground.
What campers like
Proximity to town amenities: Wright's for Camping provides walkable access to Cannon Beach shops and restaurants. "We loved our stay here; it's great for families. Wright's is quite close to town, so we were easily able to walk to the beach and main part of town," states Kristyn E. about Wright's for Camping.
Water activities beyond the ocean: Fort Stevens offers freshwater recreation options for days when ocean conditions aren't ideal. "So much for kids to do from exploring, riding bikes, fishing and going to the amphitheater for some stories. You are close to a Fred Meyer store in case you forget something," mentions Jenny M. about Fort Stevens State Park Campground.
Swimming holes and river access: Many campgrounds provide alternatives to ocean swimming with warmer water temperatures. "The tent sites are very private and right on the Nehalem River which is warm enough to swim in," reports Spencer C. about Tillamook State Forest Nehalem Falls Campground.
What you should know
Reservations essential: Cape Lookout State Park frequently reaches capacity months in advance, especially for cabin accommodations. "We had a place along the wedge and it appeared to be less windy. That's totally anecdotal, though," observes C M. about Cape Lookout State Park Campground.
Weather variability: Rain gear remains essential year-round, even during summer visits. "I recommend being prepared for any type of weather rain or shine. Showers are nice with single rooms. Not in every loop though," advises Jenny M. about Fort Stevens State Park.
Site privacy considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly in terms of separation between sites. "About 4 years ago my wife, who was my gf then, and I took a road trip to Seattle. Although the spaces were very near each other, the location of the camping spots was great!" explains Elijah A. about Jetty Fishery Marina & RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Campgrounds with updated facilities provide comfort for younger campers. "They clean the bathrooms at least twice a day keeping them fresh and fully stocked. They have laundry, both a coin-operated washer and a dryer. The laundry room also has a sink to wash any dishes," notes Avery C. about Wright's for Camping.
Beach access considerations: Some campgrounds require longer walks to reach the shoreline. "Love this camp ground just the perfect little spot to have a base camp and explore the Oregon coast! Spots are nice pretty private as far as distance but there could be more trees between. It's the beach!" shares Bryce G. about Nehalem Bay State Park Campground.
Common play areas: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreation spaces for children. "Large middle area for kids to run and play with nature (sticks, moss, pines, etc). Within walking distance to an awesome farmers market, the town of Cannon Beach, and haystack rock!" reports Andy B. about Wright's for Camping.
Tips from RVers
Overflow options: During peak summer periods, flexible camping plans may require alternative sites. "We are enjoying a free year of Thousand Trails membership and this was another last min stay, it was packed! But it's the middle of summer, and we were able to find a spot in overflow same day," shares Kimberly W. about Thousand Trails Seaside.
Utility connections: Most full-service campgrounds provide water and electrical hookups, but sewer connections vary. "No sewer hook up, so you had to use a dump station. Not a huge inconvenience. Overall certainly a place I'd return to," mentions C M. about Cape Lookout State Park Campground.
Site leveling needs: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for comfortable parking. "The gravel site was not level, and we had to use blocks. The sites were very close together," explains MickandKarla W. about Thousand Trails Seaside.
