RV camping near Pacific City, Oregon offers year-round options along the northern Oregon coast. The area experiences cool summers with average temperatures around 65°F and mild winters with frequent rainfall of 70-90 inches annually. Cell service varies considerably by location, with several campgrounds noting limited or no connectivity, particularly at forested sites away from main highways.
What to Do
Beach access trails: At Thousand Trails Pacific City, campers can enjoy direct beach access via convenient trails. "The beach access trail was perfectly located near our camp spot and another trail up near the lodge have amazing views of Cape Kiwanda," notes one visitor.
Sandboarding at Cape Kiwanda: The dunes near Pacific City offer popular sandboarding opportunities. "You can rent sandboards to ride down the dunes of Cape Kiwanda (it's a serious workout!)," mentions a camper who visited the area.
Crabbing and fishing: Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina provides equipment for water activities. "There are boats to rent for crabbing and clamming and shellfish licenses for sale," according to a reviewer who appreciated the marine amenities.
What Campers Like
Indoor pools and hot tubs: Several RV parks offer year-round swimming options. "They have a large jacuzzi and an indoor pool!" shares a visitor to Thousand Trails Pacific City, making it suitable for off-season stays when beach weather isn't ideal.
Wildlife viewing: The area's campgrounds host abundant wildlife. At Cape Kiwanda RV Resort and Marketplace, "the campground had cute wild bunnies hoping around, and amenities such as a playground, full market, and pool."
Dory boat watching: Visitors enjoy observing the traditional fishing vessels. "We love walking across the road to the Pelican Brewery and watching the dories being launched and coming in for the day," notes a long-time visitor to Cape Kiwanda RV Resort.
What You Should Know
Site spacing considerations: Many parks have tightly arranged sites. At Premier RV Resort in Lincoln City, "Although the sites are very tight and close to each other, this park offers all the amenities you need."
Internet connectivity challenges: Reliable internet access varies by location. "This year though, 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!" reports a Thousand Trails Pacific City guest.
Reservation requirements: Summer availability is limited, particularly for oceanfront sites. "We needed some RV repairs and rented a spot in Lincoln City at Premier to stay while getting them done... If you like quiet do not rent one of the spaces up front. The back of the park is much quieter and more treed."
Tips for Camping with Families
Child-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. Neskowin Creek RV Resort "had a bunch of activities for kids to do my daughter loved it," according to one family visitor.
Beach proximity: Several parks offer convenient ocean access for family outings. Thousand Trails Pacific City 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."
Indoor recreation options: For rainy days, seek campgrounds with covered facilities. "Kept clean, and stocked with games and things to do in clubhouse," mentions a camper who stayed at Thousand Trails with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some parks require additional preparation. At Tillamook Bay City RV Park, "The sites are angled such that you're not looking in each others' windows," providing some visual separation despite close spacing.
Full hookup availability: Premium connections can be limited at certain parks. One visitor noted, "There are maybe 2 spots (that aren't full time residence) that have full hookups so if you show up late you definitely won't be getting one."
Television reception: Satellite TV access varies by location. "We were able to get DISH coverage on all three western satellites at our site. There were 11 OTA channels to be had with our fixed omni antenna," reports a full-time RVer who stayed in Tillamook.
