The Tillamook State Forest region surrounding Pacific City, Oregon spans approximately 364,000 acres of coastal woodland with elevations ranging from near sea level to 3,300 feet. Tent camping near Pacific City offers diverse options from primitive forest sites to coastal settings, with weather patterns frequently bringing nighttime fog even during summer months. Rain can occur year-round with heaviest precipitation from November through March.
What to do
River recreation access: The Wilson River near Keenig Creek Campground provides swimming holes during summer months. "There's a beyond perfect swimming hole, that we all quickly discovered was plenty deep enough to jump off the rock formation next to it. It was busy on a hot saturday afternoon, but not crowded in the least," reports one camper.
Paddle sports options: Sand Lake near Tillamook County Whalen Island offers calm water for kayaking and canoeing. A visitor notes, "The location is great for paddling around Sand Lake though you'll have to go a bit to access the ocean."
Crabbing and clamming: Netarts Bay provides shellfish harvesting opportunities with seasonal restrictions. "This site is a good little spot for fishing or finding crabs and clams. The tides are extreme in this area when out or in, and can flood the parking lot."
What campers like
Natural water features: The rivers and bays around Pacific City create multiple water access points. At Trask River County Park, campers appreciate the "nice river and it's safe for the kids to run around. Its out of town, yet close enough to go to the store."
Wildlife viewing: Morning elk sightings occur at several forest campsites. One visitor mentioned, "If you're lucky enough you will wake up to elk grazing in the grassy areas."
Cell service disconnection: Many forest campsites offer true unplugged experiences. "It's nice to disconnect from cell phones," notes a camper at Trask River County Park, while another points out there's "no real amenities or ATT/Verizon service" at dispersed sites.
What you should know
Fee structures vary: County parks often charge per vehicle and tent. According to one camper at Tillamook County Whalen Island, "Tillamook county knows what they've got and they will charge for each vehicle and each tent on the ground."
Restroom facilities: Vault toilets are standard at established sites while dispersed areas require packing out waste. "There is no showers or sinks but there is multiple 'vault' toilets around the campground. For clean water there is multiple pumps around the campsite, bring your own soap."
Road conditions: Forest service roads vary in quality with some requiring high clearance vehicles. "The road is in great condition and is passable with a 2WD without any issue. There is a sign saying there are logging trucks using the road."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: River access points have varying depths and currents. A camper at Jones Creek recommends, "The river is where it's at, folks are swimming, tubing and fishing dawn to dusk. Folks jumping off the bridge and having picnics."
Educational opportunities: The Tillamook Forest Center provides interactive exhibits. "We stayed at this campground after attending an event at the Smith Homestead which is on the adjacent property."
Unique accommodations: Try covered wagons at Twins Ranch LLC for a novel camping experience with kids. "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! While the bathroom and shower set up are much to be desired, the covered wagons make up for it in every way!"
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Many coastal RV sites have limited separation. "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: Winter camping offers better site availability. "Great place!! Extremely clean! Friendly staff!! Just a little tight for my liking!! Would go back in the winter months!"
Wi-Fi limitations: Most coastal RV parks offer limited connectivity. "The only reason it is not a 5 star is the lack of good Wi-fi. There is 'wi-fi' available, but you can only use it for email?"
