Camping sites near Oceanside, Oregon feature diverse terrain with elevations ranging from sea level to 200 feet. The inland forest campgrounds receive approximately 90 inches of annual rainfall, while coastal sites experience strong winds year-round. Most campgrounds maintain partial operations during winter storms when Highway 101 occasionally closes due to landslides or flooding.
What to do
Crabbing from jetties: Harborview Inn and RV Park offers convenient access to crabbing opportunities. "Lots of places for crabbing. If you are a dairy lover a stop at Tillamook Creamery is a must," notes one visitor. Crab rings can be rented directly at the campground.
Rail exploration: Twins Ranch LLC provides access to the Rail Riders experience where campers can pedal carts on abandoned railroad tracks. "You can rent a cart that you pedal for a 2 hour tour on the old railroad tracks... a little Spendy at $30 per person," explains a reviewer.
Wildlife viewing: Waterside camping provides opportunities to observe local marine life. According to one camper at Netarts Bay RV Park, "I enjoyed walking my dogs out to see the birds, crabbers, and seals. I was there in a low season month and it was extremely peaceful."
Sand dune climbing: Some campgrounds feature accessible dunes for family recreation. A visitor at Barview Jetty noted, "I spent many a year at this campground, letting the kids run up and down the big sand dune and play on the tree at the top!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Cape Lookout State Park Campground offers more secluded spots. "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," shares a reviewer.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain sanitary standards that guests appreciate. At Nehalem Bay State Park Campground, visitors noted, "the bathrooms are very nice and the rv pads and electric is redone." Another camper mentioned, "Free, very private showers! Soap in the bathrooms! Super nice and clean!"
Historical camping experiences: Unique accommodations provide memorable stays. At Twins Ranch LLC, a family reported, "If you have a kid who loves history, the Oregon Trail, Little House on the Prairie, and dressing in character, this is your spot! The covered wagons make up for it in every way!"
Beach proximity: Most highly-rated campgrounds offer quick access to shorelines. One Cape Lookout visitor shared, "It was such a short walk to the beach and you could hear the waves when you're going to sleep!" Another mentioned, "Steps away from a beautiful, expansive beach."
What you should know
Seasonal reservation requirements: Summer months require advance planning. A camper at Nehalem Bay noted, "There is not a lot of privacy, as the spots are close together, but this is still one of our favorites. The yurts are great for months where weather is unsure."
Low or no connectivity: Thousand Trails Pacific City has limited cell coverage. One reviewer cautioned, "We have absolutely no cell service at the campground and the Free Wifi has been non-existent. But we found a nice little library in town that has free WiFi for when we need to get some work done!"
Variable site quality: Within the same campground, site characteristics can differ significantly. A camper at Barview Jetty County Campground observed, "The RV and camp sites are solid. Some really good ones, and others very basic and open."
Tide awareness: Beach access varies with tidal patterns. According to a Cape Lookout visitor, "Look up the tides though, since there's such a short beach to the water, during high tide the beach disappears. But we used that time to go on a nice hike part of the way to cape lookout overlook instead."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kilchis Park features family-friendly recreation areas. A visitor noted, "We had kids from 1-10 and they all stayed busy over a 4 day stay. The playground is very nice for all ages. Bathrooms are clean and updated."
Educational opportunities: Historical-themed camping creates learning experiences. At Twins Ranch, a parent shared, "My kids went on walks and collected berries, leaves, buds and lots of memories. Wagons are spread out so there are no worries about crowding."
Coastal cycling: Paved paths provide safe areas for young riders. A Nehalem Bay camper mentioned, "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."
Wildlife viewing with children: Marine animal sightings enhance family trips. A visitor to Barview Jetty recommended, "Bbqs, fires, music, ice cream down the street and fishing off the jetty. Close to Tillamook Cheese Factory."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina, an RVer advised, "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."
Off-season advantages: Visiting during quieter months provides better experiences. A Kilchis Park visitor observed, "Due to COVID-19 every other campsite was empty otherwise this campground would be only 6' on each side apart."
Water access considerations: Some RV spots offer prime waterfront positioning. At Harborview Inn and RV Park, a camper noted, "There are about 6 sites with direct Bay views, and others have partial views. Public boat ramp conveniently located next door."
Shower token requirements: Budget for pay showers at some locations. A reviewer at Barview Jetty explained, "Showers are available, there are three private unisex showers at each restroom complex, but they are pay-showers. The rates are reasonable starting at $0.50 for 4 minutes."
