Dispersed camping options near Sixes, Oregon offer alternatives to established campgrounds along the southern Oregon coast. Located where the Sixes River meets the Pacific Ocean at an elevation of approximately 70 feet, the area features a mix of forest land and coastal access points. Weather conditions can shift rapidly throughout the year, with winter camping requiring preparation for rain and temperatures averaging 40-50°F.
What to do
Hiking at Humbug Mountain: Access the mountain trail directly from the campground via an underpass beneath Highway 101. "The Humbug Mountain trail across the highway is amazing and a great challenge," notes a camper from Humbug Mountain State Park Campground.
Kayaking on Floras Lake: Located near Langlois, this freshwater lake offers calm water recreation. "There is a lake that had wind coming from the south for 3 months out of the year. People from all over the world come to surf there. Met people from Nicaragua who had come just to surf," explains a visitor to Boice-Cope Campground.
Gold prospecting: Try your hand at finding gold flakes along the Sixes River. "The campground sits right along the Sixes River where the South Fork enters and is the site of an old hydralic mine from the early 1900s. It is withdrawn and is open for recreational gold prospecting. Gold from small flakes to fines can be found," reports a camper at Sixes River Recreation Site.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural barriers between camping spots. "The sites here really have a large amount of privacy compared to others on the coast. Facilities were clean and quite convenient from the sites," mentions a visitor to Cape Blanco State Park Campground.
Multiple beach access options: Easy walking paths to ocean beaches rank high with campers. "We had fun on the beach playing in the sand and watching the people wind surfing and kite surfing," notes a camper at Boice-Cope Campground.
Star viewing opportunities: The distance from urban centers creates dark skies. "Had a few restful nights up here with the river and the stars as company," shares a visitor at Sixes River Recreation Site.
Rustic cabins and yurts: Alternative accommodations provide comfort for those without camping equipment. "The tent sites were great, but the cabins looked fabulous. (something different to try sometime!)" says a camper at Cape Blanco State Park.
What you should know
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Unpaved access roads require careful driving. "The road is steep gravel with many switchbacks that were easy to do in our 24ft van coming from the Humbug State Park entrance. About 12 minute slow drive to a very scenic turnout on the hilltop," explains a camper at Forrest Road 280 near Humbug.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds and dispersed sites have poor connectivity. "I didn't take any photos of that site. More on that later... There is also some phone service in the loop closer to the road which isn't the case in most of the surrounding area," notes a visitor to Humbug Mountain State Park.
Shower facilities vary: Some campgrounds offer pay showers, others none at all. "The SHOWERS. Each round of shower costs $1.50 for 6 minutes for delightfully hot water and good pressure. The shower rooms are individual rooms outside," reports a camper at Boice-Cope Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include dedicated children's areas. "The main camp area is nice with an entry loop, and then another larger loop closer to the beach. There is a short trail running along a river out the West end of camp to the beach and ocean... There is also a playground for kids and a big field to play in on that West loop," explains a visitor to Bullards Beach State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Freshwater alternatives to ocean swimming appeal to families. "We did take a breathe, and enjoy the sunset. Then as I was just about underneath the aforementioned bridge another snake, much, much bigger sloughed it's way off the trail just under my foot," warns a camper at Humbug Mountain State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for wildlife but be cautious of encounters. "The campground is quiet with lots walking. A loop is the best loop of A-B-C loops for privacy. The walk to beach is about a mile but a fun walk with a great beach to walk on," reports a visitor to Bullards Beach State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustment equipment. "Some RV sites are very uneven and sloped making it hard to be level," notes a visitor to Bandon-Port Orford KOA.
Hookup locations: Connection points may require extra equipment. "The RV sites have connections in center of site which is difficult for hoses and cords," advises another KOA camper.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds maintain working facilities. "The dump station is closed because it's broken and they've been trying to secure funding to replace it. See the photo I attached with the posted explanation sign. You will need to plan on using the dump station at the state park north or south of this park," explains a Cape Blanco State Park visitor.
