The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area dominates the region around Gardiner, Oregon, extending over 40 miles from Florence to Coos Bay. This area transitions between coastal forest and expansive sand formations, creating diverse camping environments with temperatures averaging 65-70°F during summer months, dropping to 45-55°F after dark. Many camping sites near Gardiner maintain year-round access, though winter camping often means dealing with significant coastal rainfall.
What to do
Dunes hiking access: Direct trail connections from Eel Creek Campground provide a quieter alternative to OHV areas. "The John Dellenback Dunes Trail, is an absolute must, especially at Dawn or Dusk, it's an other worldly experience," noted a camper who visits regularly.
Lake activities: William M. Tugman State Park offers water recreation without beach crowds. "There is a pretty lake trail and lots of recreation in the area. We had a nice night for the most part but it definitely wasn't our style. Too many people, sites too close, lots of noise, lots of rvs and atvs," notes one visitor who stayed during a holiday weekend.
Crabbing excursions: Several waterfront locations cater to crabbing enthusiasts with equipment rentals available in nearby towns. "We were able to cast our crab snares right off the back of our site and limit out. Park has a nice walking path that goes around the outside along the bay," reports a visitor to Winchester Bay.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Carter Lake Campground offers some of the area's most secluded sites. "Get a site above the lake; great access and just the right amount of privacy. Unlike some camp sites in the area, this one doesn't have dune buggy noise," explains one camper who sought a quieter experience.
Lagoon access: Lagoon Campground combines inland water proximity with coastal access. "We stayed in the second loop where they had large sites for haulers/trailers. The site was secluded, and felt some what private. We had our trailer and two trucks to block the view of the bathroom and other sites," writes one visitor who appreciated the spacious layout.
Winter availability: Unlike many coastal areas that close seasonally, several campgrounds maintain year-round operation. "We flew into Oregon and drove down the coast from Portland. Tugman is more towards the southern end of the Oregon Coast but in and around the Oregon Dunes area. Very nice facilities and we stayed in a yurt there," shares a camper who reserved well in advance.
What you should know
Reservation windows: The six-month booking window fills quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays. "Pro tip—we made our reservations way in advance. I would highly recommend that if you know you're going to book as soon as possible, 6 months out if possible. We got the last yurt available for the time period we were out there," advises a visitor to William M. Tugman State Park.
Site selection strategy: Tahkenitch Campground and similar locations offer varied site configurations. "Campground doesn't have a formal check-in process. Reservations made online or over the phone only. Some campsites are amazing, and others are not so great. 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."
ATV noise considerations: Engine sounds carry throughout the dune areas, affecting even non-OHV campgrounds. "This campground had everything you need. Fire pit and table ready for you. Grounds are accessible and when you've been driving all night it's exactly what you're looking for."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Waxmyrtle Campground maintains higher sanitation standards than more remote locations. "Good variety of sites, clean, easy access. Picnic tables and fire pits at every site. Water stations and pit toilets available," notes a camper who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
Kid-friendly swimming: Several area lakes provide safer alternatives to ocean swimming. "The lake is small but very beautiful and easy kayaking/floating. The campground was quiet and very relaxing. Restrooms were clean. Fire pit and picnic table at site."
Mobility considerations: Lakeside sites often require navigating stairs or trails. "The only consideration would be that all the campsites next to the lake are not recommended for people with mobility issues. The parking is on an upper level with the actual campsite on a lower level accessed by a trail or stairs."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most Forest Service campgrounds lack electrical connections. "Large well kept and maintained park. Convenient to restaurants, shops and markets in and near harbor. All within walking distance. Dune attractions and dune vehicle rentals nearby."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require additional stabilization equipment. "We needed just 1 night and was able to find a spot for the night to relax in the woods. Spaces were spacious for our 43ft 5th wheel and truck. Starlink on roof was slow, but was just fin for a relaxing night."
Winter camping considerations: Seasonal rain creates drainage issues at lower elevation sites. "This is a great campground!! We stayed from 25 Feb - 2 March. The Oregon Coast had had a ton of rain in the last few weeks, so parts of the campground were under water. The Lesson: we arrived in mid-afternoon and quickly chose a site and got everything set up. It was one of the lesser flooded sites, but still very very muddy."
