Oregon's coastal region near Tillamook provides diverse camping options with access to beaches, forests, and rivers. The area receives about 90 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush surroundings and year-round water features at many campgrounds. Winter camping in Tillamook often means temperatures in the 40s with frequent rain showers, while summer brings 70-degree days with morning fog that typically burns off by afternoon.
What to do
Crabbing and fishing access: At Jetty Fishery Marina & RV Park, visitors can rent equipment for crabbing right at the campground. "You can rent items to go crabbing or just eat some of their fresh clams, oysters and crab. We did a bit both! Staff is friendly and hard working," notes Jaime K. The marina offers both dock access and boat rentals for those wanting to explore the bay.
Hiking trails: Cape Lookout State Park features hiking trails with minimal elevation gain that lead to exceptional coastal views. "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," explains Kayla S. The trail winds through forested areas before opening to panoramic ocean vistas.
Beach activities: Watching sandboarders at Cape Kiwanda near Thousand Trails Pacific City offers entertainment even if you don't participate. "The ocean is a 5 minute walk from the site and you can rent sandboards to ride down the dunes of Cape Kiwanda (it's a serious workout!)," reports Ryan E. During lower tides, tide pools emerge for exploration, often revealing starfish, anemones, and small crabs.
What campers like
Yurt amenities: Yurt camping in Tillamook County provides solid structures with actual beds for those preferring elevated sleeping arrangements. "Super friendly beach camping sites on the Oregon Coast- cabins are safe and stormproof for great storm watching in winter/spring months. Steps from tidal pools means great beach combing in dry weather!" shares Vicki T. about Cape Lookout State Park. Most yurts have electricity, heaters, and lockable doors.
Historical accommodations: Twins Ranch LLC offers covered wagon camping for a unique overnight experience. "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! While the bathroom and shower set up are much to be desired, the covered wagons make up for it in every way!" recommends Heather. The wagons include futon mattresses for basic comfort.
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds throughout the area feature resident wildlife visitors. "Lots of hiking. Whiskey creek fish hatchery is nearby and kids will love feeding the lunkers in the pond. Jacobsen salt company is also close by," mentions Dean about the area near Cape Lookout. During early mornings, deer often wander through campsites, and birdwatching opportunities abound along coastal areas.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have minimal connectivity. About Nehalem Bay State Park Campground, one camper noted: "We've lived in oregon forever but never visited this park. RV spots are nice and level but not much privacy between spaces." Another camper shares about a different location: "No cell service, so be prepared."
Reservation requirements: Peak season demands advance planning for yurt camping in Tillamook County. "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," says Dean about Cape Lookout. Most yurts book 6-9 months in advance for summer dates.
Weather considerations: Coastal weather changes rapidly throughout the day. "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," advises Trina C.
Tips for camping with families
River access campgrounds: Trask River County Park provides water play opportunities away from coastal winds. "Trask River Campground is 20 minutes away from Tillamook. There is not a lot of service around the area going to Tillamook so go straight to Tillamook town center and start your GPS for accurate directions," advises Savannah S. The park features "nice swing set and grassy areas for kids or pets to run around."
Beach proximity: Select campsites with short walking distances to beaches for easier kid-friendly outings. "We love this campground! I could spend a month on the beach all day every day and not be done with it! Playground, close to stores and heritage/tourist sites," shares Leslie C. about Cape Lookout. Morning beach walks often reveal intact sand dollars and occasional agates.
Indoor options: For rainy days, consider campgrounds with covered spaces. "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," mentions Trina C. about Cape Lookout facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Look for specific loops with more vegetation 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)," notes Nathan R. about Cape Lookout. Sites at the ends of loops typically offer more privacy than interior spots.
Leveling challenges: Some RV parks require substantial leveling equipment. "Every spot we saw was so un-level that my trailer couldn't compensate enough to have a comfortable stay," warns one RVer about a local campground. Bringing extra leveling blocks proves helpful at many coastal locations where shifting sand affects site stability.
Utility access: At Netarts Bay RV Park & Marina, campers appreciate the reliable utilities. "Fun spot on the Oregon coast. Very clean. Loved the spaces, cement pads for your outdoor living. Good Wi-Fi. Friendly staff," reports Pops A. Full hookup sites with sewer connections are limited at many parks, so early reservations are essential.
