Cape Blanco State Park Campground sits at the westernmost point in Oregon, where the Pacific winds create cool temperatures year-round. The park averages 71 inches of rain annually, with summer temperatures rarely exceeding 70°F. Many sites are perched on a 200-foot bluff, requiring campers to prepare for persistent coastal breezes that can disrupt tents and awnings if not properly secured.
What to do
Lighthouse tours: 3-mile round trip hike from most Cape Blanco State Park Campground sites to the historic lighthouse, which operates April through October. "I have been camping at Cape Blanco State Park for years. The campground has free showers, flush toilets, sinks, firewood for sale, and beach access. A bikers' camp, group camp, and horse camp are also available," notes Haley C.
Tide pool exploration: Access during low tide at Harris Beach State Park Campground offers excellent marine wildlife viewing. "We saw hundreds of hermit crabs, anemone, starfish, sculpin, and more," reports one visitor. The park provides trail access directly from campsites to designated tide pool areas.
Fishing access: Shore and river options within walking distance from many glamping locations. "You can walk down to the river to fish, where there were also RVs camping on the beach," shares Anton Y. about his experience at Lobster Creek Campground. Both saltwater and freshwater fishing licenses available at local tackle shops.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Vegetation buffers create secluded camping experiences. "Our site had everything I needed for great solo car camping; sink dump nearby, water, plenty of privacy but not so much I felt isolated. I could sort of hear but not see my neighbors," writes Lainey P. about her Cape Blanco experience.
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance keeps amenities functional despite heavy use. At Bullards Beach State Park Campground, "The bathrooms were super clean, and the showers were as well," notes Grace A. Many glamping sites near Port Orford offer shower facilities with hot water.
Diverse accommodation options: From tent sites to luxury glamping. "Honey Bear by the Sea RV Resort & Campground has your new age camp sites for those who need to be close enough to the lodge for WiFi and had camp sites out in a valley for those who love good ol fashion camping," explains Erica C. Most glamping facilities provide electricity and protection from coastal elements.
What you should know
Weather patterns: Fog and wind affect coastal camping experiences year-round. "It is very windy here, but the plants surrounding the sites keep out most of the coastal wind and also provide plenty of privacy from other sites. Be prepared for cold weather and misty air," advises Haley C. regarding Cape Blanco. Even summer requires layers and rain protection.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically between locations. At Bandon-Port Orford KOA, reviews note variable WiFi quality: "Campground Wi-Fi speed is very minimal." Visitors should download maps and information before arrival.
Reservation requirements: Many popular glamping sites book months in advance. "The campground does not take reservations and can have low availability during peak summer season. Cabins are available to reserve," explains one Cape Blanco reviewer. State parks generally accept reservations 6 months ahead.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and activity areas available at select locations. "The park offers some spectacular views, tons of nautical navigation history as well as a lovely campground tucked into the trees," notes a camper about Bullards Beach. Several parks offer junior ranger programs during summer months.
Beach safety awareness: Supervise children near water due to strong currents and cold temperatures. The Oregon coast averages water temperatures of 50-55°F year-round, making swimming dangerous without proper equipment. Most beaches near glamping sites have warning signs about sneaker waves and rip currents.
Animal encounters: Wildlife viewing opportunities with proper distance. "You were greeted upon your arrival and told all about all of the amenities. Do you have a chance to interact with the horse, pig, and two goats," explains a visitor at Dew Valley Ranch Nature Retreat. Many glamping sites near Port Orford offer controlled animal interaction experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Check length and width restrictions before booking. "The RV sites have connections in center of site which is difficult for hoses and cords. Some RV sites are very uneven and sloped making it hard to be level," warns Jeff M. about Bandon-Port Orford KOA. Most glamping locations accommodate RVs under 35 feet.
Full hookup availability: Water, electric, and sewer connections vary by site. At Secret Camp RV Park, "Parking spots are large and shaded. Our spot didn't have access to the wifi at the park- we had to leave our parking spot and walk towards the center of the park to get wifi," reports Robert C. Most parks offer at least water and electric at glamping sites.
Dump station limitations: Not all parks provide on-site dumping. "The dump station is closed because it's broken and they've been trying to secure funding to replace it. You will need to plan on using the dump station at the state park north or south of this park," explains a Cape Blanco visitor. Research alternatives before arrival.