Tillamook County campgrounds near Netarts provide year-round camping options within a coastal environment shaped by the Pacific Ocean. The region's moderate temperatures range from 40-70°F throughout the year, with the driest camping conditions occurring from July through September. Campsites in the area include both public and private facilities situated in coastal forest, bayfront, and beachfront settings.
What to do
Beach exploration: Cape Lookout State Park Campground offers direct beach access for collecting shells and driftwood. "Steps from tidal pools means great beach combing in dry weather," notes Vicki T., while another visitor mentions, "Cape Lookout peninsula hike offers gorgeous views without great effort. Lots of tree roots that will tire your feet but not a strenuous hike overall: ~5 miles roundtrip."
Crabbing and fishing: Harborview Inn and RV Park provides marina proximity for water activities. "Super nice laundry and shower facility. Friendly staff. We really enjoyed visiting the 3 Graces. Lots of places for crabbing," shares one camper. The location provides convenient access to Garibaldi's boat launch and marina facilities.
Horseback riding: Nehalem Bay State Park Campground offers beach riding options. "Great location - Go crabbing at Kelly's and then horseback riding on the beach!" mentions Jean M. The park features a two-mile bike/walking path through woods and along the bay, with beach access only five minutes away.
What campers like
Protected camping areas: Cape Lookout maintains natural wind barriers. "There is a man-made burm that keeps some wind from coming into the campground. You can walk to the beach and see sunsets and hang gliders coming off the mountain," explains one visitor. The layout provides shelter while maintaining coastal access.
Site privacy: Barview Jetty County Campground offers spacious sites. "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," explains Kayla M. Another camper adds, "At a lot of camp sites there is even room to have tents and an RV!"
Family-friendly amenities: Thousand Trails Pacific City provides recreational options beyond camping. "This is a nice quiet campground that is spread out. Bunnies are great to watch. Close to drive on beach which is nice when you have kids," explains Neil B. Other campers enjoy the "poolhouse and laundry facilities, bathrooms and beach."
What you should know
Site spacing varies widely: Nehalem Bay sites provide limited privacy. "There is not a lot of privacy, as the spots are close together, but this is still one of our favorite places. The yurts are great for months where weather is unsure," notes Kristi R. Many campgrounds prioritize ocean views over site spacing.
Seasonal crowding affects experience: Cape Lookout offers a different experience off-peak. "We usually don't visit during the summer and even when a portion of the site is closed (sand accumulates on 'A' loop) we haven't felt like it was over packed," shares Nathan R., while another visitor adds, "We prefer loop C. There is a man made burm that keeps some wind from coming into the campground."
Connectivity limitations: Thousand Trails Pacific City has limited cell service. "We have stayed at Pacific City a few times now and I love the campground! They have a large jacuzzi and an indoor pool! This year though, we have absolutely no cell service at the campground and the Free Wifi has been non-existent," reports Paige M.
Tips for camping with families
Unique accommodations: Twins Ranch LLC offers covered wagon camping. "I almost don't want to tell anyone about this adorable secret! If you have a kid who loves history, the Oregon Trail, Little House on the Prairie, and dressing in character, this is your spot! Even during Covid!" enthuses Heather. Wagons sleep 4 people and cost $45 per night.
Playground access: Barview Jetty provides recreation areas. "Sand dunes, great group sites and beach access. I spent many a year at this campground, letting the kids (who am I kidding, me) run up and down the big sand dune and play on the tree at the top!" shares Richelle H.
Weather planning: Cape Lookout offers year-round cabins. "Super friendly beach camping sites on the Oregon Coast- cabins are safe and stormproof for great storm watching in winter/spring months," advises Vicki T. Consider tide tables when planning beach activities, as "during high tide the beach disappears."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina offers waterfront options. "Great RV park! Spots 1-27 are the tightest I have ever seen, so try to avoid them. 52-58 are right on the Bay, and pretty sizable," advises Josh H. The park provides cement pads for outdoor living space.
Sewer connections: RV hookup availability varies by park. "We were in site 8 for 4 days in mid September. The sites are fairly closely spaced but not right on top of each other, they are angled such that you're not looking in each others' windows," explains a visitor to Bay City RV Park. At Nehalem Bay, "No sewer hook up, so you had to use a dump station. Not a huge inconvenience."
Leveling challenges: Site preparation may be necessary. "Every spot we saw was so un-level that my trailer couldn't compensate enough to have a comfortable stay," reports a visitor to Thousand Trails Pacific City. Most RV parks with full hookups provide more level sites than primitive campgrounds.
