Philomath camping areas span from coastal beaches to inland forests, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 1,000 feet. The region experiences mild winters with frequent rain and warm summers with average highs around 85°F. Tent sites and RV spots in the area typically cost $20-30 per night, while yurt accommodations range from $40-65 depending on season and amenities.
What to do
River recreation: Fishing and swimming in the Alsea River at Salmonberry County Park Campground provides a calm outdoor experience. "Small, rural campground that is on the Alsea River. There are logging roads for hiking or biking and the river is great for a float," notes camper Jen H.
Fossil hunting: Search beach rocks at Beverly Beach State Park Campground for marine fossils of varying types. "Literally everywhere on this beach. Nearly every rock and cliff face is littered with marine fossils... you can often find individual fossilized shells that can be collected," explains Erik C., who also mentions the park is "popular for agate hunting along the gravel bars, particularly after big storms."
Hiking: Explore waterfall trails at Silver Falls State Park Campground, located within driving distance from Philomath. Visitors can experience up to ten waterfalls on a single trail loop. "Awesome campground. Well maintained. Site spacing is good with lots of privacy between camps... Short drive or hike to the falls," reports Richard H.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While many yurt camping areas around Philomath are developed, campers appreciate thoughtful spacing. At Silver Falls State Park Campground, "Site spacing is good with lots of privacy between camps. Bathrooms and showers are super nice and clean. Roads and campsites are paved and level," according to Richard H.
Secret beach access: Beachside State Recreation Site offers unique coastal camping opportunities with hidden pathways to the shore. "Spot 62 had a secret access to the beach that looks to be one of two away from the general access," shares Brandon K., adding that the park has "water and electricity hookups with grey water dumps throughout."
Natural swimming holes: Moonshine Park features natural water features popular with campers. "The main attraction is the quarry like swim hole. Good beach, great jumping cliff, Rapids suitable for kids to shoot," notes MeLinda W. Another visitor, Amanda T., mentions that kids "love going down to the water hole to swim and look for crawdads."
What you should know
Road noise considerations: When selecting camping spots near highways, be strategic with site selection. At Beachside State Recreation Site, "If you can get a site near the beach that's ideal. A lot of the sites are right near the road which can be a bit loud," advises Brittany B.
Limited cell service: Many camping areas around Philomath have spotty or nonexistent coverage. At Hult Pond, one camper notes, "We lost cell service about an hour before we even got there, and didn't have any the whole time there." Similarly, at Moonshine Park, "The park is secluded so there is no cell service. You will have to drive to the nearest town to get cell reception," according to Badariyah O.
Seasonal weather patterns: The Oregon coast experiences fog and rain even during summer months. Pack waterproof gear and warm layers even for summer camping. "It was kind of cool at the beginning of May," reports Michelle P. from Beachside State Recreation Site, while visitors to inland sites often note warmer, drier conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Look for designated swimming spots with various water depths. Moonshine Park offers "great day use and well maintained campground... the main attraction is the quarry like swim hole. Good beach, great jumping cliff, Rapids suitable for kids to shoot," according to MeLinda W., who adds there's "lots of pavement for bikes."
Educational opportunities: South Beach State Park Campground offers junior ranger programs and nature education. "Nice grounds, several bathrooms. Near a great walk path (paved) and easy access to the beach. This is a great campground and very kid friendly!" shares Brian P.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Silver Falls State Park features "kids' play area inside Loop B, showers, and nature trails around the campground," according to Melissa L., who suggests trying to "reserve spots 9 or 12 (next to the playground and sunny spots) or 72 (next to the creek in the shade)."
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: For RV campers near Philomath, prioritize campgrounds with paved, level sites. Emerald Valley RV Park receives high marks for this feature: "The spots were level, no fire rings only a few picnic tables but caters to RVs only... Everything was neat and in good condition," according to Tim G.
Hookup availability: While many state parks offer electric and water, full hookups are limited. At Albany-Corvallis KOA, "nice big pull through sites, tent sites along the back (really good), a nice small store and friendly staff. The best surprise is wifi that actually works," reports Jill R.
Turn radius considerations: Some smaller campgrounds have limited maneuverability for large rigs. Hult Pond presents challenges as one camper warns: "We have a 38 foot rv. We got stuck in a ditch. Rv almost tipped over trying to u turn... if you go down the main lower path you will find a area big enough to u turn! Dont do it until then!"
