The Oregon coast near North Bend experiences a unique marine microclimate, with average summer temperatures rarely exceeding 70°F and frequent coastal fog. The area sits where the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area meets Coos Bay, creating distinct camping environments within 15 miles of town. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter brings consistent rainfall averaging 65 inches annually.
What to do
Hiking coastal trails: At William M. Tugman State Park Campground, campers access lake and forest trails. "The hike out of the campground is strenuous but the dunes are absolutely breathtaking. Nearby you can hike Siltcoos lake, swim in Lake Marie or visit the beach," notes one visitor to Eel Creek Campground.
Crabbing and fishing: The area offers multiple spots for seafood catching. "The park will lend you crab traps, go down to Charleston piers and catch your supper. They also have a great cleaning and cooking station," explains a camper at Sun Outdoors Coos Bay.
Lighthouse tours: Visit the historic lighthouses near camping areas. "The lighthouse is an awesome site and I highly recommend the area," shares a camper from Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. The nearby museum offers tours explaining the maritime history of the Oregon coast.
Dune exploration: Access the Oregon Dunes directly from several campgrounds. "There is a trail that leads to the beach. The bathrooms were super clean, and the showers were as well," notes a camper at Bullards Beach State Park, located about 25 miles south of North Bend.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention vegetation barriers creating secluded spots. At Sunset Bay State Park Campground, "the campsites are fairly private, separated from each other by thick hedges. Sunset Bay is steps away and has a beautiful beach," according to a recent review.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. "Great experience, plenty of campsites, wonderfully hot showers. The D section showers, if you put the handle to the bottom right it'll be nice and hot!" advises a Sunset Bay State Park visitor.
Beach proximity: Several campgrounds offer direct beach access. "The tent sites are packed in super tight, and at least the one I was staying in had a 3 foot tall bush serving as the only privacy barrier between myself and my neighbors who were about 5 feet away from me on either side," notes a solo traveler at Sun Outdoors Coos Bay.
Wildlife viewing: The coastal setting provides opportunities to observe marine and forest animals. "You can hear the seals being noisy out in the ocean," mentions a camper about Sunset Bay State Park Campground, while others report seeing herons, egrets, and even wild turkeys at various campgrounds.
What you should know
Weather variations: The coastal region experiences frequent fog and wind. "Heads up if it's hot in the valley it'll be foggy on this shore but Coos Bay is just a 10 minute drive and it can still be sunny there!" advises a camper at Sunset Bay State Park.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially in summer. "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," shares a visitor to William M. Tugman State Park Campground.