Nehalem, Oregon serves as a gateway to Oregon Coast camping with elevations ranging from sea level to 3,000 feet in nearby forests. The region averages 90 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush surroundings for equestrians and campers. Camping options span from oceanfront sites to forested horse camps within a 30-minute drive.
What to do
Beach activities: Nehalem Bay State Park Campground offers direct beach access for crabbing opportunities. "Nehalem Bay is beautiful, and it's just down the road from two jetties. My family and I went crabbing just a ways away from the state park, and it was a beautiful day and a lot of fun," notes Aaron R.
Mountain biking: The trail networks near Dairy Creek East provide both paved and dirt biking options. Ryan W. describes, "Open feel, but sites are spacious. Nice playground for kids, fun disc golf course and wonderful access to biking (paved or dirt)."
Historical exploration: Visitors can explore military history at coastal fortifications. "There is sooo much to do in this area! It's rich with history and we could have easily spent another week touring around. The Martime Museum is up the road," explains Jill T. about her stay at Fort Stevens State Park.
What campers like
Privacy levels: The horse campgrounds near Nehalem vary in privacy. "This is a wonderful campground far enough off the beaten path and being listed as a horse camp most likely keeps the crowds down," reports Dexter I. about Clatsop State Forest Northrup Creek Horse Campground.
River access: Many campgrounds feature water access for cooling off. "Really liked this place. Right on the river great for hiking or even to drive to the coast," says Natalie B. about her experience at Jones Creek.
Natural setting: The forested environment creates a peaceful camping atmosphere. Daniel S. describes Northrup Creek Horse Campground: "The scenery around the campground was gorgeous, the bathrooms were clean, there were trails one could take to explore around, and the road in was in great condition."
What you should know
Seasonal differences: Winter camping offers solitude but requires preparation. "I've only been here in the winter when there are less people. Cell service here and there," notes Terrell B. about Tillamook State Forest Stagecoach Horse Camp.
Facility limitations: Campgrounds near Nehalem often have basic facilities. Jesse H. reports about Northrup Creek: "Pit toilets were very clean! Big Tree Trail for hikers was well maintained and we took the opportunity to splash around in the creek."
Weather considerations: Rain is common throughout the year. "It rained the whole 5 days we stayed here. Never the less the campground was very clean," explains Robert D. about his April stay at Dairy Creek East.
Site selection: Choose sites based on specific needs. "We were at loop D. Just a few minutes walk to the beach. Great campsite," advises Karen L. about Nehalem Bay State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. "Nice playground for kids, fun disc golf course and wonderful access to biking," Ryan W. notes about Dairy Creek East.
Beginner-friendly trails: Jones Creek offers accessible hiking for families. Katie C. shares, "We love staying in the campground! There are many river access points, the forestry center, walking trails and wildlife all within walking distance."
Beach exploration: Family-friendly tide pool activities are available seasonally. "When we went the tide had gone out leaving little tide pools around. It was very nice," describes Deanna F. about Nehalem Bay State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Equestrian camps often provide wildlife sighting opportunities. "Campground has a hand pump for water. Dish wash stations are throughout the campground for pouring out your dish water. The horse camp sites all have corrals for the horses. Nice hiking trail starts at the tent camping area," explains Dexter I. about Northrup Creek Horse Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV sites vary significantly in size between campgrounds. "It had a picnic table and a fire ring in a well-groomed gravel area about 30' x 30'. The back of our spot was against very high trees," describes Robert D. about site 76 at Dairy Creek East.
Satellite reception: Tree cover affects connectivity. Robert D. adds, "Our spot was on the north side of the road so when we put out our satellite unit it had lots of southern sky to find a signal from."
Hookup types: Full hookup options exist but aren't universal. "Well maintained full hookup sites with 50amp, most 63' long," notes OregonSteve about Dairy Creek East.
Parking challenges: Small tent/RV camping loops at equestrian campgrounds have limited space. "Only 8 of the sites are for horse campers, a small tent/RV camping loop of 3 sites is also available, but the parking pads are small so don't think most RVs will fit in the spots," warns Dexter I. about Clatsop State Forest Northrup Creek Horse Campground.
Legend
