Cabin camping near Tillamook, Oregon provides diverse lodging options across coastal forests and bay areas. The Wilson River Highway connects inland sites to coastal accommodations with elevation changes from sea level to 400 feet. Campgrounds typically receive 90+ inches of annual rainfall, creating lush surroundings and requiring weather-appropriate preparation.
What to do
Beach hiking trails: Cape Lookout State Park Campground offers trails that combine forest and ocean views. "Steps from tidal pools means great beach combing in dry weather," notes a visitor, while another adds, "Do the Cape Lookout peninsula hike! Gorgeous views without great effort. Lots of tree roots that will tire your feet but not a strenuous hike overall: ~5 miles roundtrip."
Crabbing and clamming: Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina provides equipment rentals for shellfish hunting. "There are boats to rent for crabbing and clamming and shellfish licenses for sale," reports one camper. The park's location makes water activities convenient: "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."
Sand dune climbing: Barview Jetty County Campground features large dunes for family recreation. A camper recalls, "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!" The dunes provide natural play areas without additional equipment needed.
Historical experiences: Twins Ranch LLC offers unique covered wagon accommodations that create immersive historical experiences. "If you have a kid who loves history, the Oregon Trail, Little House on the Prairie, and dressing in character, this is your spot!" A visitor suggests: "Consider dressing in costume!"
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Nehalem Bay State Park Campground offers thoughtfully designed sites. "We usually don't visit during the summer and even when a portion of the site is closed (sand accumulates on 'A' loop) we haven't felt like it was over packed," reports one visitor. Another camper notes the convenience: "Great paved loop for kids to ride bikes. All stores are back in but there's a decent bit of room between stores."
Pet-friendly facilities: Thousand Trails Pacific City welcomes pets with accommodations designed for animal companions. The campground receives praise for its natural setting: "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." Visitors often spot wildlife: "Bunnies are great to watch."
Clean shower facilities: Many campers appreciate bathroom amenities at Cape Lookout State Park. "Bathrooms have semi-private showers and are conveniently located," notes one review. Another visitor highlights: "Free, very private showers! Soap in the bathrooms! Super nice and clean!" This makes extended stays more comfortable, especially during wet coastal conditions.
Proximity to fishing spots: Harborview Inn and RV Park offers waterfront access. "In the cute little fishing town of Garibaldi, on the Oregon Coast, we found this gem of an RV park. Waterfront, full hookup sites with a great view led us to build a fire in fire pit provided and sit outside in December!" The location provides immediate access to fishing opportunities: "Next to kyack put in and a boat launch."
What you should know
Weather preparation essential: The Oregon coast receives heavy rainfall, especially October through April. Winter cabin reservations should include rain gear and warm layers. Summer can bring fog and temperature shifts.
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds report connectivity issues. At Pacific City, "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!"
Reservation timing: Book cabins 6-9 months ahead for summer stays, especially at popular locations. Off-season availability improves, with some sites available 2-3 weeks in advance.
Tide awareness needed: Nehalem Bay State Park Campground requires tide knowledge for beach activities. "We camped in tents over the weekend at the end of April, and we loved it there! It was such a short walk to the beach and you could hear the waves when you're going to sleep! Look up the tides tho, since there's such a short beach to the water, during high tide the beach disappears."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas near cabins. At Cape Lookout, a visitor notes: "Playground, close to stores and heritage/tourist sites. My parents used to bring me here often (we were camping here the day Mt St Helens blew), and now I bring mine!"
Indoor activity options: Twins Ranch LLC provides unique accommodations when weather turns poor. "What a unique experience to have the opportunity to spend a night in a rustic covered wagon! Especially fun for families with kids," mentions one review. Another family found creative activities: "My kids went on walks and collected berries, leaves, buds and lots of memories."
Meeting hall rental: Some campgrounds offer group spaces for larger family gatherings. "We also rented the meeting hall in C loop, and we were really impressed with the space! It had tables, chairs, a gas stove, kitchen sink, small fridge, microwave, outlets, and lots of counter space! It was so nice for a big group like ours."
Fish hatchery visits: Educational opportunities exist near cabin locations. "Whiskey creek fish hatchery is nearby and kids will love feeding the lunkers in the pond," suggests a visitor to Cape Lookout.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling: Pleasant Valley RV Park sites require assessment. "Very nice place. Well kept! The staff was terrific. Several trees around for shade. We were there for a month and had no issues. WiFi not the best but it did ok."
Road noise considerations: When selecting cabin locations, consider proximity to highways. One camper at Misty River RV Park reports: "Oregon Hwy 6 runs alongside the RV Park. It is a major source of road noise during the day and late night. The RV Park is a moderately maintained facility."
Loop selection matters: Different camping areas offer varying experiences. "We prefer loop C. There is a man made burm that keeps some wind from coming into the campground. You can walk to the beach and see sunsets and hang gliders coming off the mountain."
