Camping near Otter Rock, Oregon offers access to natural marine features like the Devil's Punchbowl, with coastal headlands rising 60-100 feet above sea level. The area's campsites range from oceanfront spots with direct beach access to forested locations sheltered from prevailing northwest summer winds that can reach 15-25 mph. Seasonal whale watching opportunities exist during migration periods, with gray whales visible from shore December through January and March through June.
What to do
Fossil hunting at Beverly Beach: Beverly Beach State Park provides unique opportunities to discover marine fossils along its shoreline. "Fossils are literally everywhere on this beach. Nearly every rock and cliff face is littered with marine fossils of varying types and sizes and you can often find individual fossilized shells that can be collected," notes Erik C. The beach is also known for agate hunting along gravel bars, especially after storms.
Crabbing from Newport's marina: Newport's Port of Newport RV Park & Marina gives visitors direct access to the marina for seafood harvesting. "Great spot. Nice beach to stroll or walk out on to the jetty. Great year round," writes Pepper V. The marina location makes it convenient for crabbing, with one camper noting, "You are right off the marina and could crab and fish to your hearts content."
Beach combing at Depoe Bay: Sea and Sand RV Park in nearby Depoe Bay offers excellent beach access for exploring tidepools and collecting treasures. "Lovely hikes along beach front. Don't miss this one," recommends Nancy L. The location makes an ideal base for coastal exploration with several visitors noting the proximity to different beaches and coastal features.
What campers like
Ocean views with privacy: Tillicum Beach Campground provides oceanfront camping with some separation between sites. "We had an ocean view, beach access and a large semi private site. It was quiet, clean and the hosts were very friendly," reports Nicole S. The campground features several sites directly facing the ocean with unobstructed views and beach access.
Educational opportunities: Beverly Beach State Park Campground offers learning experiences for visitors of all ages. "Nice educational programs for kids. Firewood conveniently available," mentions Kristen W. Another camper appreciated "a nice history of the beach and how it got its name" at the visitor center.
Forested camping environments: South Beach State Park Campground offers wooded sites that provide natural shade and wind protection. "Shady sites on the outer edges of the loops," notes Patrick M. The forest setting creates a natural camping atmosphere while still being near beach access, with "good hikes around and across the adjoining dunes and to the beach."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Winter camping requires preparation for coastal conditions. At Devil's Lake State Recreation Area Campground, Blake F. advises, "If you plan on booking a trip in the late Fall/winter, be sure to call ahead of your trip. I've been here in the fall when more than half the campsites were flooded or filled with standing water."
Site size limitations: Campground descriptions often understate size constraints. At Tillicum Beach Campground, one camper warns, "Clean and very pleasant. Great views, best for tent campers. Very tight fit for medium to larger rigs."
Seasonal mosquito issues: South Beach State Park experiences significant mosquito activity during certain months. "Mosquitoes were bad this year so bring bug spray. Also make sure you book ahead because it always is booked from June to October," advises Brian C. Multiple reviewers mention this issue, with another noting, "We camped here in May. It had little privacy and a lot of mosquitoes."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with activities: Thousand Trails Whalers Rest provides numerous family-friendly amenities. "So many good areas for kids to play and the staff really does a great job planning activities for the whole family," writes Neil B. The campground includes "a pool, mini golf, play ground and other fun games."
Consider state parks for educational value: Beverly Beach offers natural learning opportunities for children. "Short walk to the beach and nature trails. Nice educational programs for kids," notes Kristen W. The campsite's proximity to fossils and marine life creates impromptu science lessons.
Seek campgrounds with playgrounds: South Beach State Park includes designated play areas for children. "This is a great campground and very kid friendly!" reports Brian P. The paved paths are ideal for bike riding, and the campground's size allows space for children to explore safely.
Tips from RVers
Spacing considerations: Premier RV Resort in Lincoln City offers well-maintained sites but with limited space. "The sites are extremely close together, although the people that camped around us were all friendly, respectful of the spatial issues and quiet," reports Angela S. Several reviewers mention the proximity of sites as something to be aware of when booking.
Check campground restrictions: Pacific Shores Motorcoach Resort has specific vehicle requirements. "No refund and after driving 4 hours we were told we couldn't camp with our trailer it had to be a class a or class c motorcoach in like new condition," warns Sarah S. Always verify specific RV requirements before booking.
Select seasonal sites wisely: Devil's Lake State Recreation Area sites vary by season. "The ground is typically dry and you are in close proximity to the beach. If you reserve the right campsite, you'll also be just a stones throw from devils lake," advises Blake F. Water drainage issues affect site selection during rainy months.
