Tent camping around Gold Beach offers diverse sites along rivers and within forested settings. Camping areas range from 30 minutes to over an hour from town, with higher elevations in the Siskiyou National Forest reaching 3,000 feet. Summer temperatures average 65-75°F while inland camps can experience wider temperature ranges compared to coastal sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Rogue River at Lobster Creek Campground offers excellent fishing access with a boat ramp and riverside sites. "The river is a good fishing spot, according to some local fisherman we met in the morning following our stay," notes Anton Y., who appreciated the convenient river access.
Wildlife viewing: Eagle watching and deer spotting are common at dawn near Elk River "Stony Beach" Dispersed Camping. A camper mentioned, "We found a great pull off that led under a bridge. Beautiful spot and no bothersome traffic," making it ideal for peaceful nature observation.
Swimming in clear water: Many riverside campgrounds feature swimming areas. One camper at Elk River Stony Beach described: "The water is crystal clear and cool, comfortable to stay in for minutes. Had a wild and beautiful romp up the State creek canyon across the bar."
What campers like
Natural separation between sites: Many Gold Beach area campgrounds offer privacy through vegetation and terrain. At Sunshine Bar Campground, campers enjoy a secluded atmosphere. "This campground is super green and pretty. It's a ways up the river but close to the road. It seemed very secluded even tho it was close to a road," according to Brittney G.
Night sky viewing: The absence of light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. Jennifer A. at Sunshine Bar Campground described nocturnal activity: "The campsite was clean and even had some salamanders and hooting owls at night."
River access: Direct water access ranks high among camper priorities. At Miller Bar Camping and Day Use Area, "We camped just feet from the river. Kayak & swim everyday. There are pit toilets and garbage pickup," according to Ariel & John W., who appreciated the proximity to water.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas require higher clearance vehicles. At Elk River Stony Beach, one reviewer noted: "The road to access this is paved and very accessible BUT there is a steep gravel hill to get down into the campground. It is pitted and difficult to get up/down but we managed in an AWD Subaru crosstrek."
Fire restrictions: During summer months, officials enforce strict fire rules with regular patrols. One camper reported: "For camp fires, make sure to check the local regulations. When I was there they had a burn ban and the forestry guys came through somewhat regularly to check. They will ticket you if you break the rules. $250 fine I believe."
Bathroom situations: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. One Elk River camper advised: "People clearly struggle with how to manage the absence of toilet. I dug a little hole in the thimbleberries across the road and used their wide and soft leaves to clean myself up. No biggie."
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming spots: The Elk River features deeper areas suitable for family swimming. "It gets deep on the left side of the beach area so you can properly swim if you want to," mentions one camper, adding that "That area is popular with locals for day-use."
Wildlife observation opportunities: Children can spot salamanders, deer, eagles and other wildlife at many riverside camps. At Quail Prairie Lookout, Michael C. reports: "I saw Eagles, deer and other wildlife" from the elevated vantage point.
Roadside attractions: The drive to some campgrounds becomes part of the adventure. Diana T. describes the journey to Sunshine Bar: "The drive there is a narrow, winding road along the Elk River, lush green ferns and trees, and over a dozen small waterfalls."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV camping requires careful consideration of road conditions. At Miller Bar Camping, Dennis R. advises caution: "Drive down the windy steep road to the riverbank and set up camp wherever you'd like," noting the challenging access.
Ground conditions: River bars consist primarily of rock and gravel, which presents challenges for setting up. "4x4 is probably a must have as the river bank is just rocks," warns Ariel & John W. about Miller Bar camping areas.
Supply planning: With limited services available, RVers should prepare thoroughly. The drive to Port Orford from Elk River sites takes "about 30 minutes each way. Not too bad, but if you want to settle in and not move for a while, you'll want to stock up."
