Best Campgrounds near Tillamook, OR

The Tillamook area of Oregon's northern coast offers a diverse camping landscape where coastal and forest experiences converge. Cape Lookout State Park Campground provides beachfront camping with yurts and tent sites just 13 miles southwest of Tillamook, while Barview Jetty County Campground offers similar amenities near Rockaway Beach. Inland, the Tillamook State Forest hosts numerous primitive campgrounds along rivers like the Wilson and Kilchis, including walk-in tent sites at Elk Creek and Jones Creek. The region accommodates various camping styles from fully-equipped RV parks with hookups to free dispersed camping on forest service roads, with several campgrounds offering yurts and cabins as alternatives during the frequently wet coastal weather.

Cell service becomes limited or nonexistent in many forest campgrounds, particularly those along Highway 6 and deeper into Tillamook State Forest. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with coastal sites experiencing strong winds and cooler temperatures even in summer. As one camper at Cape Lookout noted, "The campground was pretty cold in late July, and seemed to stay much colder than the surrounding cities of Tillamook and Oceanside." Many forest campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, filling quickly on summer weekends. Reservations are essential for state park campgrounds during peak season, while dispersed camping in Tillamook State Forest requires self-sufficiency with no facilities available.

Wildlife viewing opportunities rank high among visitor experiences, with elk sightings common at several campgrounds. According to one Barview Jetty visitor, "If you get up before the crowds, you will most likely see large elk browsing on the grassy areas." Nehalem Bay State Park, 30 minutes north of Tillamook, receives praise for its wildlife: "A family of deer visited us every morning and night during our stay." River access is another highlight at forest campgrounds, with sites along the Wilson, Kilchis, and Nehalem rivers providing swimming and fishing opportunities. The contrast between coastal and forest camping creates distinct experiences—coastal sites offer beach access but can be windier and more exposed, while forest sites provide shade and river access but may have limited facilities. Off-season camping provides more solitude, with one visitor noting November camping at Nehalem Bay was "super quiet and empty so we felt like we had the entire park to ourselves."

Best Camping Sites Near Tillamook, Oregon (163)

    1. Cape Lookout State Park Campground

    107 Reviews
    Netarts, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 842-4981

    $27 - $117 / night

    "I camped twice at Cape Lookout this season - in June in a yurt, and in July at the campsite right behind the dune.  

    In June, it was freezing, rainy and windy, and the yurt was fantastic."

    "Nice campground near Tillamook."

    2. Barview Jetty County Campground

    53 Reviews
    Rockaway Beach, OR
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 322-3522

    $38 - $56 / night

    "Close to the tide pools in Barview, right on the beach, on the entrance to Tillamook Bay. Large clean bathrooms with several hot showers."

    "Cool location near the ocean. Walking or biking to the jetty was fun. The jetty offers a unique landscape. The RV and camp sites are solid. Some really good ones, and others very basic and open."

    3. Nehalem Bay State Park Campground

    88 Reviews
    Manzanita, OR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 812-0650

    $27 - $74 / night

    "We definitely didn't try to interact with them, but they were comfortable to roam right around our site which was a really magical experience

    • Nehalem Bay is such a beautiful area and the State Park"

    "Our explanation took us north to Cannon Beach and south to Tillamook. A word of warning, the Tillamook factory can be a long wait, so long that we found a different place to eat."

    4. Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina

    10 Reviews
    Netarts, OR
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 842-7774

    "Fun spot on the Oregon coast.  Very clean.  Loved the spaces, cement pads for your outdoor living.  Good Wi-Fi.  Friendly staff."

    "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."

    5. Jones Creek

    10 Reviews
    Tillamook, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 842-2545

    $15 - $20 / night

    "Definitely check out the Tillamook Forest Centery, you can even hike over from the campground.

    Water on site, trash, friendly camp hosts."

    "Bathrooms were close to sites and decent. The site was pretty quiet. There are ATV trails nearby so lots of dirt bikers in the camp."

    6. Tillamook Bay City RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Bay City, OR
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 377-2124

    "Not a bad drive into Tillamook. A little further to some nice beaches and state park areas. Friendly staff. Decent amount of road noise."

    "A very nice place just north of Tillamook on Hwy 101."

    7. Harborview Inn and RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Bay City, OR
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 322-3251

    "Stumbled across this little RV park and inn while traveling through Tillamook and liked it so much I stayed an extra day.  Beautiful location and quaint little park. "

    "If you are a dairy lover a stop at Tillamook Creamery is a must."

    8. Kilchis Park

    6 Reviews
    Bay City, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 842-6694

    $26 - $35 / night

    "We had the opportunity to visit this park while working our way home form the Oregon coast. Access is just south of Bay city and north of Tilamoock of Hwy 101."

    "Easy access to the river and close to Tillamook and all it has to offer. The park host was very nice and helpful and they had lots of dry wood."

    9. Thousand Trails Pacific City

    18 Reviews
    Pacific City, OR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "It's nestled in the woods next to the beach with the cute little town of Pacific City just 5 minutes away. The staff was very friendly."

    "Forested and just steps away from the Pacific Ocean. Pacific City is just a few minutes away and it offers good restaurants and many recreational activities."

    10. Twins Ranch LLC

    5 Reviews
    Bay City, OR
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 418-1460

    $25 - $45 / night

    "I'd recommend this to anyone heading to the Tillamook area."

    "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! "

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Recent Reviews near Tillamook, OR

1101 Reviews of 163 Tillamook Campgrounds


  • Phillip C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area Campground

    Older Park

    We were within the length limit of the pad, however, the approach to the site was really tight. Growth encroached on the approach to the pad, and we found we could not make the turn. I’ve been backing trailers for 20+ years could not fit.

    A compliment to the staff, the agent looked for any cancellation but everything was full. This got them the 3 star instead to 1 star rating.

    It’s an older park built for smaller trailers, ignore the length of the pad. Think can I make a tight turn?

  • Christian C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Dispersed Camping Near Cannon Beach

    Overnight/Couple days

    Its got plenty of places to set up for the night. Its got roads that lead in multiple directions, all ending up at a location or passing by one. Most are off the road in a turn out, but there are some ones that are enclosed at the end of a road. Some roads are blocked due to fallen trees and people made a camp. Its pretty sweet. Stayed three days, did some hiking and its close to the coast so going into town for the day is a option. Roads are narrow. Not recommended for large longer vehicles

  • James T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Dispersed Camping Near Cannon Beach

    Sign says they will lock the gate

    Right at the start of the road, sign that says "gate ahead" and you'll be locked in. Not worth the risk. No other easy free campsites in the area. Lame, Oregon.

  • L
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Nehalem River Park & Campground

    Great beach access, but prepare yourself for steep dunes - clean campground

    I thought this was a great campground especially for families. There was some noise into the night, to be expected for a campground with so many amenities for kids to enjoy. But I would return because it was so clean and the beach is gorgeous. I wish it was a little more wooded/shrubby between camps, but I didn't feel like I was breathing my neighbor's exhale so that's fine. I saw reviews about the dunes being pretty big to get to the beach and I didn't really believe them until I was heading back into camp at night, yeah that hill is a lot coming back up so beware. I would avoid bringing my grandpa here.

  • J
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Sea Ranch Resort

    Very handy for exploring Cannon Beach

    Sites are small, close together, and just barely fit the equipment they are tagged to fit. Bathroom is clean, has hot showers with a single hook and no bench for toiletries. Walk to town is very easy as is the walk to the beach.

  • Kateryna K.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Nehalem Bay State Park Campground

    Great Spot

    Plenty of space for two tents on the one spot. Clean bathroom and showers. Close to the beach, beautiful nature. We really enjoyed our stay here. I would love to come back.

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Paradise Cove RV Resort & Marina

    Maybe if?

    The campground had better days. We wanted a 50amp so we went up the hill. Road is terrible. It’s a long timer campground. It’s a “pick your spot” campground. Our site was soggy. But we were going to pick one. There’s an old lodge where a pool shows on the map. It is empty. Just for fun we went down to the lower area and it has some awesome views. But very crowded. I would probably go somewhere else next time.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Elk Creek Campground

    Beautiful, remote, minimal

    This campground has minimal facilities (pit toilets, no trash, etc). No cell service either (AT&T). Still, it's a quiet, gorgeous area next to a creek. Bring 15$ cash and be prepared for a wonderful time. I actually visited twice.


Guide to Tillamook

Tillamook's camping spots offer diverse experiences from coastal to inland forest settings. Most inland campgrounds in the Tillamook State Forest sit at elevations between 400-800 feet above sea level, creating cooler microclimates than coastal sites. The region receives approximately 90 inches of annual rainfall, resulting in lush forest campgrounds with dense undergrowth between sites at places like Jones Creek and Kilchis Park.

What to do

Crabbing at Netarts Bay: The marina at Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina rents crabbing equipment and provides direct bay access. "Cozy, friendly and an amazing view of the Netarts Bay. Bonus is RV park comes with nice cafe where you can indulge yourself with nice breakfast," notes visitor Taka.

Tidepooling near Cape Lookout: Walk to tidepools about half a mile from Barview Jetty County Campground. "I have only stayed in the tent sites here... Tidepools are about .5 mi away, close enough to walk," reports camper Kelly P.

Hiking the Wilson River Trail: Access the trailhead directly from Jones Creek campground for a morning trek. "There is a trailhead for the Wilson River trail within the campground which makes for a great early morning hike," writes camper Stephanie Z.

Horseback riding on the beach: Multiple campers at Nehalem Bay State Park Campground mention beach horseback riding as a must-do activity. "Great dune area. Always horses riding on the beach too. Super neat experience," says Jamie B.

What campers like

River swimming access: Jones Creek campers appreciate the easy water access for cooling off. "The river is where it's at, folks are swimming, tubing and fishing dawn to dusk. Folks jumping off the bridge and having picnics," notes Aria R.

Private campsites at Cape Lookout: Many campers value the separation between sites. "For the most part, trees and bushes are substantial enough to make your site feel like you have your own sanctuary (we might be introverts)," explains Nathan R.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Nehalem Bay offers frequent wildlife encounters. "There is a two mile bike/walking path through the woods and along the bay. The beach is only a five minute walk away," writes camper Smittie.

Oregon Trail 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 you should know

Limited cell coverage: Cell service is non-existent at several locations. At Pacific City, one camper notes: "We have absolutely no cell service at the campground and the Free Wifi has been non-existent. But we found a nice little library in town that has free WiFi for when we need to get some work done!"

Early arrival recommended: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially on summer weekends. "I showed up around 3pm on a Friday and was barely able to find a walk-in tent site. All the car-accessible sites were taken," reports Christi L. about Jones Creek.

Site spacing varies widely: At Kilchis Park, sites offer more room than typical coastal parks. "Due to COVID-19 every other campsite was empty otherwise this campground would be only 6' on each side apart," notes Robert D.

Shower facilities: Some campgrounds charge for showers. At Barview Jetty, "Showers are available, there are three private unisex showers at each restroom complex, but they are pay-showers. The rates are reasonable starting at $0.50 for 4 minutes and each additional quarter adds 2 minutes."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Kilchis Park offers excellent facilities for children. "We had kids from 1-10 and they all stayed busy over a 4 day stay. The playground is very nice for all ages. Bathrooms are clean and updated," reports Christi C.

Sand dune exploration: Barview Jetty features a large dune that kids love. "I spent many a year at this campground, letting the kids (who am i kidding, me) run up and down the big sand dune and play on the tree at the top!" shares Richelle H.

Historical learning: The covered wagons at Twins Ranch provide educational value. "What a unique experience to have the opportunity to spend a night in a rustic covered wagon! Especially fun for families with kids," says Tanya B.

Bike-friendly loops: Nehalem Bay offers paved areas for young cyclists. "Good paved loop for kids to ride bikes. All stores are back in but there's a decent bit of room between stores, especially compared to some PNW coast campgrounds," notes camper C.M.

Tips from RVers

Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling. At Pacific City, one camper warns: "Every spot we saw was so un-level that my trailer couldn't compensate enough to have a comfortable stay."

Pull-through availability: At Netarts Bay RV Park, "Has a few pull-troughs for smaller set-ups, back in for the rest. Our spot (smaller pull-through) was pretty flat. Spots are kind of close together but if just for a night or if camping with friends it's just fine."

Site angles matter: At Barview Jetty County Campground, "The RV and camp sites are solid. Some really good ones, and others very basic and open... they are angled such that you're not looking in each others' windows."

Television reception: For those wanting to stay connected, "We were able to get DISH coverage on all three western satellites at our site. There were 11 OTA channels to be had with our fixed omni antenna," reports one camper at Bay City RV Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the options for tent camping in Tillamook, Oregon?

Tent campers have several great options around Tillamook. Keenig Creek Campground offers first-come, first-served tent sites but lacks potable water, so bring your own. Kilchis Park provides a peaceful tent camping experience alongside the Kilchis River, located about 12 miles east of Highway 101. For tent campers seeking amenities, Tillamook Bay City RV Park includes nice grassy tent spots partially under trees in a clean, friendly environment. Those seeking a more natural experience might prefer the dispersed camping options in Tillamook State Forest, which offer more primitive tent camping. Most tent sites in the area fill quickly during summer weekends, so arriving early or mid-week is recommended, especially for first-come, first-served campgrounds.

Where are the best campgrounds near Tillamook, Oregon?

Tillamook offers excellent camping options for all preferences. Elk Creek Campground in Tillamook State Forest is a local favorite, featuring beautiful sites where Elk Creek meets the Wilson River. The peaceful setting offers great shade and creek access. Barview Jetty County Campground is another standout with diverse sites - some tucked into trees next to a large dune, others closer to the beach. It provides clean facilities with hot showers and easy access to tide pools. For those wanting more seclusion, Trask River County Park is about 20 minutes from Tillamook and offers a quieter experience, though with limited cell service. Each offers unique advantages depending on whether you prefer forest, riverside, or coastal camping experiences.

What RV parks are available in the Tillamook area?

Tillamook Bay City RV Park offers a clean, friendly environment with drive-through sites. While it's more of a parking lot style than a forested setting, it provides the basics in a convenient location when other campgrounds are full. Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina is another option near Tillamook with reservable sites, water hookups, and toilets that can accommodate larger RVs. For those willing to travel slightly farther, Klaskanine River RV Park is north toward Astoria. Most RV parks in the area provide standard hookups including water and electric, with some offering full hookups with sewer connections. Given Tillamook's popularity, especially during summer months, advance reservations are highly recommended for RV travelers planning weekend stays.

Are there any state campgrounds or parks near Tillamook?

Yes, several excellent state parks and campgrounds surround Tillamook. Nehalem Bay State Park Campground offers a stunning coastal camping experience with opportunities to spot local wildlife like deer. During off-season months like November, you might feel like you have the entire park to yourself. Cape Lookout State Park Campground is another nearby state option with beautiful coastal access. Additionally, Tillamook State Forest contains numerous campgrounds, including Jones Creek and Gales Creek. Hebo Lake Campground is another highly-rated public option, known for clean facilities, peaceful surroundings, and excellent fishing opportunities. State campgrounds in this region typically offer more amenities than dispersed sites, including restrooms and designated camping areas.