Gearhart is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Gearhart campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Oregon camping adventure.
"The coordinates did not take us to the exact spot, but the pin on the map was the closest, it’s actually to the left on the dirt road. You’ll see a tiny dirt road going up hill and that’s the spot."
"This spot has an almost 180 degree view around to the west! Could fit about 2-4 people comfortably. No amenities but such a good time!"
"Some paths are less driven on so maybe avoid with a big RV or van, can also get a little hilly and tight.
I got in around 8:45pm and there were a good amount of spots left."
"Secluded yet close to Cannon Beach. Road was very accessible. Creek and trailhead nearby. Spot at the dead end is best."
"There's basically zero traffic on the dirt road near the campsite. A lot of the trees around seem to be new growth. Great view of the stars at night!"
"There are several spots off the road around these radio tower stations and it is quite secluded. We didn't see any other person the whole time we were there."
"Accessible through the Jones Creek campground turn off, continue up the forest roads past the OHV staging area and you’re in paradise!"
"My mistake, these coordinates took us to the top of the mountain. It is currently an active logging area, so the truckers are out at 3am. The road up was a very narrow road."
"Definitely quite the long and slow drive up a narrow backcountry road - steep in sections but overall quite manageable."
"It’s just past a river around a bend when heading east on the south side. You’ll see signs off the pavement for Cook Creek campground. Keep on driving up staying on the main road."
"Definitely best for car camping as the spots down by the river were pretty wet and muddy this time of year. The waterfall is amazing and only a 15 minute hike down!"
"The river is a walk down a very steep hill behind the pullout. No place to pitch a tent, best for car camping."
"River access and a fire pit. Dirt bike parking adjacent but pretty private."
"There are 3 easy to find campsites, very easy to find and access. 2 or 3 miles before the gravel road was a commercial campground with a store and very friendly folks inside."
TravelerAccessible through the Jones Creek campground turn off, continue up the forest roads past the OHV staging area and you’re in paradise! Gorgeous spots all over that are accessible in most 4WD/off-road capable vehicles. There is a massive network of forest service roads many with spots to set up your own quiet camp away from all the dirt bikes and RVs. No facilities obviously but that’s what makes this place special. It’s incredibly quiet and peaceful and a gorgeous piece of the PNW coastal area.
RangerMy mistake, these coordinates took us to the top of the mountain. It is currently an active logging area, so the truckers are out at 3am. The road up was a very narrow road. So careful if there’s other cars coming through, especially the logging semis.
Nonetheless a cool spot. Dry camping. Please clean up after yourselves.
GuideGreat spot because it's so secluded in the forest. There's basically zero traffic on the dirt road near the campsite. A lot of the trees around seem to be new growth. Great view of the stars at night!
There are at least 4 other campsite off this road at different points if you keep driving. Some of them are more or less level and more or less muddy. This one was the best, but there are lots of options. All of them are commonly used because there are ashes from fires. There's a moderate amount of trash at most of them.
Requires a Discovery Pass. I bought a day pass for $12 online since I don't need the annual pass. They tell you to write the date and order number in large print on a piece of paper and put it on your dash. No one came to check my pass though (in January, so it's the off season)
You have to take a dirt road to reach the campsite, but it is pretty well maintained. The only difficulty I encountered were two points where a few inches of road were a bit washed out. They were small enough that I could manage them alright in a 2WD van that had normal clearance. So most cars could probably manage them.
There's a small trail behind this spot that that leads to the creek, which is nice. Other than that, you can hike along the dirt roads, but there aren't any actual hiking trails that I found. I saw a porcupine for the first time while wandering one of the side roads! I didn't drive up to Snag Lake.
GuideThis place was beautiful!! Definitely best for car camping as the spots down by the river were pretty wet and muddy this time of year. The waterfall is amazing and only a 15 minute hike down! The only reason this place got lower than a 5 star is because of all the trash near the parking lot. Too beautiful of a place to be used as a dump!! Definitely used as a party spot but aside from this it’s worth the visit!
RangerThis is for dispersed camping in the Siuslaw NF off Forest Road 55, off 101. Turn into 55 from 101 between Thor’s Well and Devil’s Churn. There is a FS paid campground (Cape Perpetua Campground) right off FS 55.
If you follow 55 about 10 miles in, there are lots of established boondocking spots at around 4000 elevation. Additionally there are unmapped logging roads which can also be explored for camping.
Scenery is spectacular, lots of wildlife, deer, elk, coyote, and amazing old growth forests. No amenities of any kind, no cell service.
ScoutThe directions/coordinates are for 10min outside pacific city. It is now a private entrance/driveway with no access to go through to the dispersed coordinates! And the locals said a lot of the forest is closed off due to logging in that area. Defiantly follow the rangers review about the devils churn/thors well spot. The directions from Dyrt was about an hour or so away from his instructions ! We weren’t able to find a spot and ended up leaving the area
entirely.
GuideThis was a really fantastic campsite! Definitely quite the long and slow drive up a narrow backcountry road - steep in sections but overall quite manageable. There are a few options up here but one really phenomenal site with wide ranging views. Be weary that it is a long drive to get here and no way to tell if there's sites available until you do the entire drive up. No water up here.
ScoutA big pavement pull off on the ride of the road. The river is a walk down a very steep hill behind the pullout. No place to pitch a tent, best for car camping. Had some issues with people stopping and playing loud music, seems to be a hangout spot.
LegendLoved this spot. Gorgeous, lots of unique sites. Only downside is incredibly loud atv and dirt bike activity.
These sites are beautiful and really meant for tent camping—but you can park an rv in most of the spots.
There is a vault toilet closer to site 14 but no hookups.
OHV vehicles are incredibly loud and ran throughout the weekend— but I have a feeling it’s very quiet on the week days.
Gorgeous—lovely area, no real amenities or ATT/ Verizon service.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Gearhart, Oregon, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of locations offering stunning views and unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is camping allowed on Gearhart Beach?
Camping directly on Gearhart Beach is not allowed. Oregon's beaches are public land where overnight camping is generally prohibited, including Gearhart Beach. Instead, consider nearby dispersed camping options in the surrounding areas. Dispersed Camping Near Cannon Beach offers drive-in access not far from the coast. For beach proximity with legal camping, you'll need to use established campgrounds in the region rather than camping on the beach itself. Local regulations strictly enforce no overnight camping on Oregon beaches to protect the natural environment and ensure public access. Always check current regulations with local authorities before planning your trip.
Where is dispersed camping available in Gearhart?
While direct dispersed camping in Gearhart itself is limited, several nearby options exist. Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping is accessible via Jones Creek campground turnoff, with numerous spots available if you continue past the OHV staging area. These sites are best reached with 4WD/off-road capable vehicles. Another option is Siuslaw National Forest Dispersed Camping, accessible from Forest Road 55 off Highway 101. About 10 miles in, you'll find established boondocking spots. Note that some areas may be temporarily closed for logging activities, so checking with forest rangers before your trip is advisable.
What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites in Gearhart?
Dispersed camping sites near Gearhart typically offer minimal to no amenities, as they're designed for self-sufficient camping. At Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed, you'll find secluded forest sites with established fire rings but little else. These sites offer excellent star-gazing opportunities and privacy with minimal traffic. Similarly, Beaver Falls Trailhead - Overnight provides beautiful surroundings with access to waterfall hikes, but expect to bring everything you need. Most dispersed sites feature basic fire rings and flat tent spaces only. You'll need to pack in all water, food, and supplies, and pack out all trash. No toilets, running water, picnic tables, or other facilities are provided. Always practice Leave No Trace principles.
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