Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek represents one of the few dispersed camping options in the Eddyville region. This unpaved forest road offers primitive sites without amenities approximately 20 miles from Eddyville. The road narrows significantly in sections, with several small pull-offs suitable for tent camping or smaller vehicles. Access requires standard clearance vehicles during dry conditions, though the road can become challenging after rainfall.
What to do
Fossil hunting at beaches: Beverly Beach State Park provides exceptional fossil-hunting opportunities. "Nearly every rock and cliff face is littered with marine fossils of varying types and sizes and you can often find individual fossilized shells that can be collected," notes Erik C., who also mentions that "Beverly Beach is also popular for agate hunting along the gravel bars, particularly after big storms that uncover new stones."
Crabbing from marinas: Port of Newport RV Park & Marina offers convenient access for crabbing enthusiasts. "You are right off the marina and could crab and fish to your hearts content," according to nathan K. The campground's location makes it ideal for trying your luck at catching Dungeness crab directly from the docks.
Kayaking on lakes and rivers: Multiple water access points near camping areas allow for various paddling experiences. "Camp hosts were amazing only one issue I found is it can be hard to make it down to the beach if you are not in great shape. Big rocks to climb over and down to make it to the beach defenitaly not ADA accessible," reports Heather L. about Tillicum Beach Campground.
Swimming in natural pools: Moonshine Park features a natural swimming area on the Siletz River. "The main attraction is the quarry like swim hole. Good beach, great jumping cliff, Rapids suitable for kids to shoot," explains MeLinda W. Many campers specifically visit this location for its swimming opportunities during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Beachside State Recreation Site offers more secluded camping spots. "Very private sites. A little bit of road noise is the only downside," mentions Jeff K. Another camper, Darin D., notes that "Lots of trees, bushes between sites that make it feel more secluded."
Clean facilities: Devil's Lake State Recreation Area maintains high cleanliness standards. "Campground was tidy, quiet, and fairly private from our neighbors. Camp host left a small bundle of wood for us when we arrived which was nice. Restrooms were clean and well stocked," according to Eric H. The campground also features free hot showers and outdoor dish washing stations.
Multiple beach access points: Several campgrounds provide convenient beach entry points. "Short walk to the beach from the camp site," notes Leigh-Anne H. about Beverly Beach State Park. At Beachside State Recreation Site, Lauren Hannah G. appreciates that there are "3 access points" to reach the beach from the campground.
Water features: Many campers specifically select locations based on water access. "We really enjoy it there. Just know that there is zero cell service. We didn't mind, but if you work on the road, you won't be able to at this site. Our kids love the waterfall and nice swimming hole," Christie U. shares about Moonshine Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Service varies significantly between coastal and inland camping areas. "No service on the drive up but had a couple bars at my campsite," reports Dylan B. about Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek. At Moonshine Park, Badariyah O. warns that "The park is secluded so there is no cell service. You will have to drive to the nearest town to get cell reception."
Road conditions for dispersed camping: Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek requires careful navigation. "Narrow and unpaved road. Very narrow, My trailer could barely fit through and there was only a three-way intersection inside to make a U-turn, otherwise my trailer wouldn't be able to get out!" cautions Leo Y. Most reviews recommend smaller vehicles for this area.
Seasonal flooding: Some campgrounds experience significant water issues during rainy seasons. "If you plan on booking a trip in the late Fall/winter, be sure to call ahead of your trip. I've been here in the fall when more than half the campsites were flooded or filled with standing water," advises Blake F. about Devil's Lake State Recreation Area.
Limited availability: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We heard good things about the campground and made a reservation. What we did not realize is that while the ocean facing sites are pretty cool the other sites are pretty awful," explains marcus K. about Tillicum Beach Campground, highlighting the importance of researching specific sites.
Tips for camping with families
Select campgrounds with play areas: Thousand Trails Whalers Rest offers multiple family-friendly amenities. "So many good areas for kids to play and the staff really does a great job planning activities for the whole family," shares Neil B. The campground includes a swimming pool, mini golf, and playground facilities.
Choose sites with open spaces: Moonshine Park provides grassy areas ideal for children's activities. "Great day use and well maintained campground. Campground lacks privacy but nobody seems to mind. Open and grassy. The main attraction is the quarry like swim hole," mentions MeLinda W., adding that there's "Lots of pavement for bikes."
Consider educational opportunities: Several parks offer junior ranger programs. Michelle P. notes about Beachside State Recreation Site: "Host staff super friendly. When it was windy on the beach, the campground was quiet and not very windy. Good tree coverage." The park provides educational activities during summer months.
Look for campgrounds with beach access: Children often enjoy beachcombing activities. "This campground reminded me of a fairy tale. Once you drive inside it is very plush and green. Perfect little getaway to the Oregon coast," states Leigh-Anne H. about Beverly Beach State Park, noting the "quick walk to the beach from the camp site."
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many coastal campgrounds have tight spaces. "Some of the spots are a little tight, but overall this is a great spot," advises Pops A. about Sea and Sand RV Park. Site measurements should be confirmed before booking, especially for larger rigs.
Prepare for weather challenges: Coastal camping often means dealing with fog, wind and rain. "We stayed during the rainiest five days I've ever camped....but still had a great time. We were able to bike to town and the staff was fantastic," shares David & Sue C. about Thousand Trails Whalers Rest.
Consider electrical needs: South Beach State Park provides good hookup options. "Our site had water and electricity. There is a dump on site. Our site seemed roomy, but there is a lot of traffic with the over 200 sites," explains Kellie T. Most RV sites include 30 or 50 amp service depending on the location.
Reserve ocean-view sites early: Premium RV spots with ocean views book months in advance. "When you first pulled in and I saw the price of $31.96 per night, I thought it was very reasonable but then I discovered that was for the dry camping area, which was a paved parking lot," warns Laura M. about Port of Newport RV Park & Marina, highlighting the importance of understanding site types when booking.
