Camping opportunities around Florence, Oregon center around the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area with its unique coastal ecosystem. The region experiences mild temperatures year-round with winter lows averaging 40°F and summer highs around 65°F. Camping conditions remain relatively consistent through seasons, though winter months bring increased rainfall averaging 10-12 inches monthly between November and February.
What to do
Beach exploration: 1.5-mile trail access at Sutton Campground connects hikers to stunning dune formations and eventually the ocean. "We had a great hike from a trailhead in the campground all the way to the dunes and finally the beach. Stunning beach with no one on it and beautiful water," notes one visitor at Sutton Campground.
Sand dune activities: 5-10 minute drive from most Florence campgrounds. "Great access to the sand dunes and we rented sand boards for $10 a day and had a blast sand boarding. Really fun trip," shares a camper from Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park.
Coastal forest hiking: Multi-level trails provide varying difficulties for all ability levels. "Fabulous 6 mile hike to Heceta Lighthouse. A day spent at the Sea Lion Caves just up the coast. Oh and the mighty pacific in all its glory at the park beach access," reports a visitor at Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park.
What campers like
Private campsites with vegetation barriers: Many campgrounds feature natural separation between sites. "The camping spaces are spread out and isolated by vegetation, providing some privacy. Restrooms are clean and there are plenty of water spigots," says a visitor at Alder Dune Campground.
Clean facilities throughout: Bathroom maintenance rates highly across campgrounds. "The bathrooms are also very clean with multiple stalls and showers (push button but not coin operated)," notes a camper staying in a yurt at Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park.
Walking distance to attractions: Some campgrounds offer pedestrian access to beaches, towns, or natural features. "This is quite fun to park the motorhome with a beautiful river view, and then walk next door to Mo's for some chowder. Walk to everything," explains a visitor at Port of Siuslaw Campground & Marina.
What you should know
Seasonal availability varies: Many campgrounds operate limited schedules. "We got in late at night and was a pretty simple easy setup (rv). It was hot dry and dusty, but being on the water was really nice," shares a Port of Siuslaw visitor about summer conditions.
Wildlife considerations impact pets: Some areas have strict enforcement periods. "Black bear spotted on beach trail June 2025," warns a Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park camper, highlighting why leash rules matter for pet safety.
Mosquito presence in spring/summer: Bring repellent, especially for wooded sites. "We stayed at site A-16 in mid-May and absolutely loved it. Super pretty spot, tucked right next to a little creek. Heads up: the mosquitoes were definitely out (classic spring in Oregon), so bring your bug spray," advises a Sutton camper.
Weather can change rapidly: Coastal conditions fluctuate regardless of season. "Since I visited in November and it rained, the drops from the trees were loud on my trailer roof," explains a visitor at Harbor Vista Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Yurt options for mixed weather: Reserve in advance for comfortable alternatives to tenting. "I had such a nice time at this campground. We went in the off season (in the winter) so the campground didn't have many people staying. I have a toddler and it ended up being so helpful with the weather being a bit rainy," shares a Honeyman visitor.
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "The campground had a playground for kids, a small free library and ranger station with a couple of souvenirs of the area," notes another Honeyman camper.
Group camping availability: Larger family gatherings benefit from dedicated areas. "30+ family members camp here every year around 4th of July. Always great fun and great atmosphere. Hosts are wonderful and the grounds/restrooms/showers are all well kept," shares a Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park visitor.
Pet-friendly trails for family dogs: Many campgrounds offer direct trail access for pet walks. "The camp hosts were super wonderful. There are showers in the next Campground over for a dollar for 5 minutes. You can hear the ocean Crashing Down and it's super close to a beautiful spot," describes a visitor at Waxmyrtle Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Most campgrounds accommodate medium-sized RVs. "We stayed at site 76. The campground was big and a little to loud. There are yurts to stay in but you have to reserve them," notes a Honeyman visitor.
Full hookup availability varies: Check campground amenities before arrival. "Spaces were spacious for our 43ft 5th wheel and truck. Starlink on roof was slow, but was just fin for a relaxing night," explains another Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park camper.
Limited connectivity in wooded sites: Cell service and satellite reception affected by trees. "The tree cover here is very thick, so solar didn't work and starlink probably wouldn't either. There is also group camping here. Good cell reception for Verizon and ATT," advises a Sutton Campground visitor.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. "Parks that are walking distance to shops and restaurants are such a treat. There are breweries, restaurants, farmers market (on Tuesday afternoon), shops, etc all within easy walking distance from here," shares a Port of Siuslaw camper about the convenient location that compensates for limited RV services.
