Nehalem camping areas sit at the convergence of the Coast Range mountains and Pacific Ocean, with elevations ranging from sea level to 300 feet in nearby areas. Weather conditions shift dramatically throughout the year, with summer fog typically burning off by midday and winter bringing consistent rainfall averaging 70-90 inches annually. Most campgrounds in the Nehalem vicinity operate in a coastal rainforest environment featuring Sitka spruce, western hemlock and shore pine.
What to do
Crabbing at Kelly's Brighton Marina: Located near Rockaway Beach, this small marina offers crabbing equipment rentals and fresh seafood. "We spent a week Kelly's over the 4th of July holiday weekend and week. Lots of campers in and out, but Kelly brought in plenty of clean port-a-potties and kept them that way all weekend... the girls working the crab pit were always happy to serve up some great seafood," notes one visitor to Kelly's Brighton Marina.
Horseback riding on beach: Several outfitters near Nehalem offer guided horseback rides along the shoreline. "Great location - Go crabbing at Kelly's and then horseback riding on the beach!" recommends a visitor to Nehalem Bay State Park Campground.
Explore Cape Lookout Peninsula: A moderate hiking trail offers coastal views without extreme elevation gain. "Do the Cape Lookout peninsula hike! Gorgeous views without great effort. Lots of tree roots that will tire your feet but not a strenuous hike overall: ~5 miles roundtrip," advises a camper at Cape Lookout State Park.
Tidepooling: Low tide reveals marine ecosystems filled with anemones, starfish and small crabs. "Bird migration spring through early summer is a highlight. Haystack rock is picturesque and volunteers can point out highlights. Don't forget low tide for tidepooling," suggests a visitor to Cannon Beach.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer natural vegetation separating campsites. "We love how much privacy is usually found between sites. For the most part, trees and bushes are substantial enough to make your site feel like you have your own sanctuary," explains a visitor to Cape Lookout State Park Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Most developed campgrounds maintain clean facilities. "Free, very private showers! Soap in the bathrooms! Super nice and clean!" writes another Cape Lookout visitor.
Swimming holes: River camping options feature natural swimming areas. "We camped in tents over the weekend at the end of April, and we loved it there! It was such a short walk to the beach and you could hear the waves when you're going to sleep!" shares a Cape Lookout camper.
Fall camping experience: Shoulder season camping offers less crowded conditions. "RV spots are nice and level but not much privacy between spaces. Very nice setup with yurts right across the drive from RVs in loop A. Nice for meeting family or friends with no vehicle," notes a visitor to Nehalem Bay State Park.
What you should know
Early reservations essential: Reserve 6-9 months ahead for summer weekends at popular coastal campgrounds. "Looking forward to going back in the off season in hopes of it not being as heavily used by assholes. There was also a quite a bit of traffic on the road but that was to be expected in such a popular location," reports a visitor to Cook Creek.
Bathroom availability varies: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. "I showed up just looking for a site to put my tent up on my journey. I got here and found out you can fish for crabs, they cook for you here, the people are extremely friendly and helpful, you could rent a boat, families are welcome," shares a camper at Jetty Fishery.
Road conditions: Forest roads require higher clearance vehicles, especially after rainfall. "A few miles a long gravel road leads you to a handful of large sites. These had fire pits and pull throughs. No cell service. Kind of creepy late at night until you begin to see the sites," writes a Cook Creek camper.
Cell coverage limited: Most forest campgrounds have minimal service. "ATT reception is very limited. Our only complaint was the lay out. Good angles for backing in. However, inner loops you have a neighbor front, back and sides," explains a visitor to Cannon Beach RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Best bike-friendly campgrounds: Several campgrounds offer paved loops ideal for young cyclists. "Good paved loop for kids to ride bikes. All stores are back in but there's a decent bit of room between stores, especially compared to some PNW coast campgrounds," notes a visitor to Nehalem Bay State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule early morning walks for best wildlife sightings. "Barviews Jetty Campground, is one of the best camping spots. The campground has a combination of tent sites and rv sites. Additionally there are cabins available. Located very close to the beach, super close. There is also FANTASTIC fishing! Pet Friendly!" shares a camper at Barview Jetty County Campground.
Family-friendly learning activities: Many coastal areas offer educational programs. "We brought the kids and expected to listen to their complaints the whole time, but they were intrigued by everything!" explains a visitor to Fort Stevens State Park.
Meeting hall access: Some campgrounds offer indoor spaces for family gatherings. "We also rented the meeting hall in C loop, and we were really impressed with the space! It had tables, chairs, a gas stove, kitchen sink, small fridge, microwave, outlets, and lots of counter space!" shares a Cape Lookout camper.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "We've lived in oregon forever but never visited this park. RV spots are nice and level but not much privacy between spaces. Very nice setup with yurts right across the drive from RVs in loop a. Nice for meeting family or friends with no vehicle," shares an RVer at Nehalem Bay State Park.
Site selection strategy: Choose outer loop sites for more privacy. "We usually prefer the A and B loops which are closest to the beach and feel like they have the most privacy," advises a visitor to Cape Lookout State Park.
Winter camping considerations: Year-round campgrounds offer different experiences by season. "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," shares a camper at Nehalem Bay State Park.
Dump station access: Some campgrounds lack dump stations. "No sewer hook up, so you had to use a dump station. Not a huge inconvenience. Overall certainly a place I'd return to. We had a place along the wedge and it appeared to be less windy. That's totally anecdotal, though," mentions an RVer staying near Nehalem.
