Oregon's south coast region near Myrtle Point maintains a temperate climate most of the year, with summer temperatures averaging 65-75°F and winter temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The region sits at elevations ranging from sea level to approximately 500 feet inland. Coastal campgrounds experience significant wind conditions, while inland camps offer more shelter among Douglas fir and spruce forests.
What to Do
Beach riding trails: The Oregon Dunes recreation area connects with Wild Mare Horse Campground trails for equestrians. "This a more peaceful spot, without immediate engine noise but with plenty of room for human and horse at each site," notes Bjorn S., though recent visitors have reported increasing ATV activity nearby.
Lighthouse tours: Visit the oldest lighthouse on the Oregon coast at Cape Blanco State Park Campground, which is 28 miles from Port Orford. "The lighthouse is the oldest on the Oregon coast and you can get a tour of it," explains Tim W. The park also features historic sites including the 1898 Hughes House with available tours.
Hiking opportunities: Multiple trail systems cater to various experience levels. "Bear Creek Trail does run along the river, which makes it great for fishing," says Julie P. about Boundary Campground. Most trails provide access to coastal viewpoints or riverside terrain, with options ranging from easy 0.5-mile walks to more challenging 3-5 mile routes.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Many coastal campgrounds feature natural vegetation buffers for privacy. "The campground is gorgeous! It's nestled among Sitka spruce trees. They provide a lot of privacy between you and your neighbors and are just so pretty," writes Mea H. about Cape Blanco State Park Campground.
Beach access: Multiple campgrounds provide beach access via walking trails. "Great campground with beautiful beach within walking distance. Clean bathrooms and showers!" reports Kandi R. about Bullards Beach State Park Campground. Most beach access trails range from 0.75-1 mile from camping areas.
Natural settings: The region offers both forest and coastal settings. "My site had everything I needed for great solo car camping... plenty of privacy but not so much I felt isolated. I could sort of hear but not see my neighbors," describes Lainey P. about her Cape Blanco experience, adding that her "site had a pretty special hidden feature behind the campfire - the perfect unexpected spot for my hammock."
What You Should Know
Horse camping considerations: Designated horse campgrounds have specific requirements. At Wild Mare Horse Camp, Shannon C. warns, "This is a horse camp, for people who have horses, NOT a car camp. It's not fair that car campers are taking reservation spots away from horse campers." Before booking any horse campgrounds near Myrtle Point, Oregon, verify whether they're exclusively for equestrians.
Dump station availability: Some campgrounds have limited dump facilities. "The dump station is closed because it's broken and they've been trying to secure funding to replace it," reports Mea H. about Cape Blanco. "You will need to plan on using the dump station at the state park north or south of this park."
Seasonal variations: Summer brings larger crowds while spring and fall offer more availability. "It is very windy here, but the plants surrounding the sites keep out most of the coastal wind and also provide plenty of privacy from other sites. Be prepared for cold weather and misty air," advises Haley C. about Cape Blanco's coastal conditions.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach activities: Plan day trips to coastal areas for swimming, beachcombing and dune exploration. "We decided to stay here because you can hike from the campground through the dunes and to the beach. It was a beautiful .75 mile hike to a gorgeous beach," shares The School for Y. about Bullards Beach State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds feature resident wildlife. "The campground itself was quiet and populated with wild turkeys," notes The School for Y. about their off-season visit to Bullards Beach State Park, providing natural observation opportunities for children.
Secure campsites early: First-come, first-served campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "The campground does not take reservations and can have low availability during peak summer season," Haley C. explains about Sam Brown Campground, adding that "cabins are available to reserve" at some locations as an alternative option.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Look for campgrounds with dedicated larger spaces. "The sites have full hookups, fire pits, tables, and very long paved drives," reports Haley C. about Cape Blanco State Park, making it suitable for larger RVs despite coastal conditions.
Hookup availability: Verify what utilities are available before booking. "Stayed 5 nights site A-40 a very nice spot for our 26ft Class C motor home we fit a-ok an had 30am and 15am at the post," shares Robert O. about Bullards Beach, adding that "the site and utilities are in great shape."
Cell signal considerations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. "Cell signal on Verizon was really low speed and mostly useable. But ATT was good with 5-7Mbs with out using our outside antenna and cell booster,10-20mbs when using it," notes Robert O., providing important information for remote workers or those needing consistent connectivity.
