Glamping experiences near Florence, Oregon offer coastal access combined with comfort. State parks on the Oregon coast maintain both rustic and deluxe yurts with electricity, heat, beds, and lockable doors. Campers can reserve these accommodations up to nine months in advance through the Oregon State Parks reservation system, with most yurts requiring a two-night minimum stay during peak summer months.
What to do
Beach exploration and hiking trails: At Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park, visitors can access the beach via a short trail that passes under Highway 101. "A pretty trail follows a creek under Hgwy 101 and out to the ocean from out of the camping area," notes Frank S. The park also features a longer 6-mile hike to Heceta Lighthouse.
Fishing and water activities: Lake Marie at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park provides fishing opportunities with one reviewer reporting they "caught about a dozen fish in the lake!" The park includes a one-mile trail around the lake that's "well drained and not soggy, with several connections to the campground."
Sand dune adventures: Florence borders the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area where visitors can hike or rent equipment. "We rented sand boards for $10 a day and had a blast sand boarding," says one camper about their experience near Honeyman State Park. From Tahkenitch Campground, "the highlight was the beautiful trail to the dunes. We actually walked there twice it was so beautiful."
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Beachside State Recreation Site offers secluded spots despite being near Highway 101. "Very private sites with trees and bushes between our site and neighbors on each side," notes a camper. Another reviewer mentioned "Site 74 perfect for rooftop tent camping. Windbreak, no mosquitos, decently separated."
Yurt accommodations: Yurts provide comfortable glamping options throughout the region. A visitor to Harbor Vista Campground described it as "a well thought through beautiful park with great views. Each campsite is very secluded with bushes and trees all around." The campground includes both RV and tent sites with electrical hookups.
Amenities and facilities: Many campgrounds feature clean, well-maintained facilities. "Working with camp hosts was easy. Money drop box or can use card with host (just call ahead)," explains one reviewer about Harbor Vista. Campgrounds typically provide fire pits with grates and picnic tables, while many also offer "free hot showers" and accessible restrooms.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer months. "Get there early as reservations cannot be made and its all first come, first serve!" notes one camper about some sites, though most state parks now accept reservations online.
Weather considerations: Coastal weather can change rapidly, with fog and wind common year-round. "When it was windy on the beach, the campground was quiet and not very windy. Good tree coverage. Was kind of cool at the beginning of May," reports a visitor to Beachside State Recreation Site.
Wildlife encounters: Tahkenitch Campground provides opportunities for nature viewing but requires caution. "Black bear spotted on beach trail June 2025," reported one camper at Washburne State Park. Another mentioned, "Note that in order to protect snowy plover nests, dogs are not allowed on this section of the beach during certain times of the year."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Harbor Vista Campground includes a "swingset" that one parent noted made it a "favorite since it's got some great views, and swingset (priorities, you know!)."
Junior Ranger programs: Educational activities are available at many state parks. "They offer the Junior Ranger Program to occupy kiddos which is great!" explains one parent. These programs typically run during summer months and weekends.
Family-friendly camping layouts: Thousand Trails South Jetty provides family camping options with various amenities. "Nice community areas though," notes one reviewer, while another mentioned, "We are looking forward to coming back post Covid-19 to take advantage of the closed outdoor pool, hot tub and clubhouse."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Many campgrounds have varied site sizes and privacy levels. "The good sites are spacious, secluded, and do not have a driveway. They are hidden in the brush 20-30 yards from where you can park the car. Others are small with little to no privacy," explains one RVer about Tahkenitch.
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites are available at several campgrounds, but specifications vary. "Full hookups available along with restrooms/showers, fire wood for sale and there is a dump station on site," notes a camper. Some parks now offer upgraded electrical service, with one visitor mentioning, "I'm camping in an EV and was glad to find this spot with 50 amp hookup."
Space limitations: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. "Back in spaces, so a 40 foot RV would barely fit. This is an older but well maintained campground," explains one RVer about Washburne Memorial State Park. At others, "spaces were spacious for our 43ft 5th wheel and truck."
