Best Campgrounds near Nehalem, OR
The Oregon coast near Nehalem features diverse camping options where ocean and forest environments converge. Nehalem Bay State Park Campground stands as the area's premier destination with 265 sites offering water and electric hookups, 18 yurts, and specialized horse camping areas. Just a short walk over sand dunes leads to expansive white sand beaches. Inland, Tillamook State Forest provides more secluded experiences at Nehalem Falls Campground, where tent sites sit alongside the river with swimming holes and natural scenery. Between these extremes, visitors find dispersed camping along the Nehalem River, RV parks like Jetty Fishery Marina, and nearby options in Cannon Beach and Rockaway Beach, all within 30 minutes of Nehalem.
Reservations prove essential during summer months when coastal campgrounds fill quickly, particularly on weekends. Nehalem Bay State Park requires bookings months in advance for prime summer dates, while forest campgrounds like Nehalem Falls operate first-come, first-served from May through mid-September. Weather patterns shift dramatically by season, with winter bringing heavy rainfall and wind, while summer offers mild temperatures and morning fog. As one camper noted, "We came during offseason (November) and camped at this State Park for 3 nights. It was super quiet and empty so we felt like we had the entire park to ourselves." Road conditions vary significantly, with some forest routes requiring high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain when unpaved roads become challenging.
Wildlife viewing opportunities rank highly in visitor experiences throughout the region. Deer frequently visit campsites at Nehalem Bay State Park, while coyotes can be heard in evenings. The bay itself hosts abundant marine life, including seals and various bird species. Many campers note the tradeoff between amenities and privacy, with one visitor observing that while Nehalem Bay sites are "rather small and close together," the beach access compensates for the density. Families particularly appreciate the bike paths, playgrounds, and beach activities available at state park facilities. The contrast between developed campgrounds and primitive sites creates options for different camping styles, from fully-equipped RV sites with hookups to walk-in tent sites along the Nehalem River where visitors can enjoy swimming holes and fishing opportunities.
