Dispersed camping spots near Rockaway Beach, Oregon provide wilderness alternatives to traditional campgrounds. The region's lush Tillamook Forest sits at elevations between 500-2,000 feet with annual rainfall exceeding 100 inches, creating dense undergrowth and limited cell service throughout the area. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-75°F while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
River swimming: Cook Creek offers multiple swimming areas with varying depths. "We scored the most beautiful spot last week, designated spot #5. It is very private and there is a short walk (2-3min) down to your very own private part of the river. There was a very clear beautiful pool of water in the center and rapids/rocks on both sides for exploring," notes Cameren M.
Wildlife viewing: Trask River County Park provides opportunities to see native elk. "If you're lucky enough you will wake up to elk grazing in the grassy areas," reports Savannah S. The park includes multiple trails within walking distance of campsites.
Historical experience: Twins Ranch LLC offers unique covered wagon camping. "If you have a kid who loves history, the Oregon Trail, Little House on the Prairie, and dressing in character, this is your spot! My kids went on walks and collected berries, leaves, buds and lots of memories," shares Heather.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Cook Creek, campers appreciate the distance between neighbors. "Designated dispersal camping is a great idea - no loud neighbors within at least a couple wooded blocks between each site. You get large, open circles of bare ground at Cook Creek, each with a fire ring," writes Bjorn S.
River sounds: Numerous campers note how water sounds mask highway noise. "The road is dirt/gravel and currently ends about 3.5 miles in due to 'flooding damage' which takes the form of several very large boulders blocking the way. Lots of fishing accessible along Cook Creek," reports Vicary B.
Easy beach access: Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina provides coastal proximity not found in forest campgrounds. "I enjoyed walking my dogs out to see the birds, crabbers, and seals. I was there in a low season month and it was extremely peaceful," shares Pilar F.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Many campsites have variable fire rules depending on season. "Late season (September) but still pretty busy. Fire restrictions in place," notes Shannon R. about Cook Creek's site #5.
Water sources: Hand pumps may require effort. At Elk Creek Campground, "There are compost toilets available and water on site, though the website says there isn't, there is in fact drinkable water on site and toilets," explains Aria R.
Trash management: Most dispersed sites require complete pack-out. "Large sites that would could host several tents. Creek is just 100ft away. Really close to main road so can be dusty and not super private," mentions s M. about conditions at Cook Creek.
Road conditions: Some access roads require careful navigation. Regarding Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping, Seth M. advises, "Road is fine and easy. AWD is nice but isn't necessary if the road is fairly dry."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Seek out shallow areas with natural barriers. "The river was an excellent location to play in and in some spots we were able to swim," Jessica K. notes about Elk Creek Campground.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play structures. Trask River County Park has a "Nice swing set and grassy areas for kids or pets to run around," according to Savannah S.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity varies by site. At Keenig Creek, Justin P. advises, "We opted for K4 which was farther from the parking lot, and closer to the river. Unfortunately, closer to the river meant closer to the highway, too."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most tent camping spots near Rockaway Beach have limited space for larger vehicles. "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," reports Josh H. about Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina.
Connectivity limitations: Wi-Fi or cell service is rarely available. "There is 'wi-fi' available, but you can only use it for email? Part of why we choose RV parks from time to time vs a state park or dispersement camping is to have access to some amenities such as water, power, sewage and wi-fi," notes Julie F.
Water access points: When transporting water equipment, check accessibility. "Clean RV site with views of the bay and inland views. I enjoyed walking my dogs out to see the birds, crabbers, and seals," shares Pilar F. about waterfront access at Netarts Bay.
