Tahkenitch Campground provides direct access to the Oregon Dunes through a forested trail system. Located near Highway 101, this campground offers secluded tent sites set back from parking areas for more privacy. Camping options range from standard campsites to primitive spots with vault toilets but no showers. The campground maintains clean facilities despite its rustic nature and proximity to highway noise.
What to do
Hike the dunes trail: From Tahkenitch Campground, a beautiful forest trail leads to impressive sand dunes. "The highlight for us was the beautiful trail to the dunes. We actually walked there twice it was so beautiful - once with the dog in the afternoon and then we went back for an incredible sunset," shares one visitor. Note that the trail requires some navigation skills as markers can be sparse.
Fish for bass on Eel Lake: William M. Tugman State Park offers excellent fishing opportunities right from the dock. "Lots of loops for Sam to ride her bike, trails around Eel Lake to hike (beautiful!), kayak and paddleboard rentals (didn't get a chance to do that), a dock to fish off (lots of fish to catch there), and a nice kids' playground," reports a camper. The lake provides a calm environment for multiple water activities.
Rent ATVs for dune adventures: Near Oregon Dunes KOA, visitors can access ATV rentals and dune riding areas. A visitor notes, "It boosts a small general store on site as well as being located right next-door to an ATV rental shop. The ATV rental shop also has parts, accessories and fuel!" Some campgrounds offer dedicated ATV areas for children to learn riding skills before tackling larger dunes.
What campers like
Clean, reliable facilities: Umpqua Lighthouse State Park maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers. "Beautiful southern coast campsite. The Umpqua Lighthouse is lovely. Museum and tours are great. Souvenir shop is unique and staff all over the park are informative and friendly," says one camper who appreciated the maintained grounds and helpful staff.
Lake access for water activities: Many visitors praise the water access at Osprey Point RV Resort. "Great water access for boating, canoeing, kayaking," notes one reviewer. The resort offers boat rentals and convenient lake access, making it popular for water enthusiasts staying near Lakeside.
Hiking opportunities: Sunset Bay State Park provides excellent coastal hiking. "The trail around Lake Marie was well drained and not soggy, with several connections to the campground," mentions one visitor. Trails connect many campgrounds to beaches, dunes, and forest areas, allowing for varied outdoor experiences without driving.
What you should know
Highway noise affects some sites: Campgrounds near Highway 101 experience traffic noise. "You're close to the road but we couldn't hear any traffic. The sites felt pretty private and were far enough apart," reports a Tahkenitch camper. Other campgrounds closer to the highway may experience more pronounced road noise, especially at night with truck traffic.
Site sizes vary significantly: Bastendorff Beach Park offers different site configurations. "The 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 one solo traveler. Research specific site dimensions before booking, especially for larger RVs or groups.
Weather patterns can be unpredictable: Coastal fog and wind affect camping comfort in the area. "We got here literally around 3 am. Anyways we woke up and walked down to the water which was wonderful. But that wind just kept on kicking," shares one camper at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. Prepare for potentially cool, foggy conditions even during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park offers excellent family facilities. "We have been to Tugman a few times, but this most recent trip was Father's Day weekend. Several local activities, but we went for the Chainsaw Festival," reports a visitor who found the park clean and staff helpful. Several campgrounds in the area maintain playgrounds and kid-friendly trails.
Reserve family-friendly yurts well ahead: Sunset Bay State Park yurts require advance planning. "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," advises a Tugman camper. Family-friendly accommodations fill quickly, especially during summer months and holidays.
Select campsites away from highway: For better sleep quality with children, choose sites set back from roads. "We did our annual dad camp with kids and no moms allowed here and really enjoyed it. The campground has a nice small loop with a hill that the kids loved to ride their bikes around and zoom by our site," shares a visitor to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. Interior loops typically offer quieter environments for families.
Tips from RVers
Check site levelness before booking: Some RV sites require leveling equipment. "Notice the asphalt spaces were not very level. Most RV/Campers had to use blocks to level out," notes a William M. Tugman State Park visitor. Bring leveling blocks for campgrounds with older or uneven pads.
Consider site privacy when glamping near Lakeside: Winchester Bay RV Resort offers varying levels of privacy. "Large well kept and maintained park. Convenient to restaurants, shops and markets in and near harbor. All within walking distance," shares a camper. Look for end sites or those with natural barriers for more separation from neighbors.
Reserve utility hookups early for peak season: Full-hookup sites book quickly at popular glamping destinations. "Decent park that is pretty quiet and has a laid-back staff. WiFi is terrible, which seems to be par for the course for RV parks. Only complaint is that the sites are really squeezed in and the lanes are very narrow," notes an Osprey Point RV Resort visitor. Most luxury glamping options near Lakeside require reservations 3-6 months in advance.
