Toledo, Oregon campers have access to diverse forest and coastal environments within a 25-mile radius. Annual rainfall averages 80 inches, creating lush surroundings but also requiring waterproof gear during camping trips from October through May. The area's campgrounds range from sea level to 800 feet elevation, with summer temperatures averaging 65-75°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Marine fossil hunting: At Beverly Beach State Park Campground, visitors can search for ancient marine fossils along the beach. "Nearly every rock and cliff face is littered with marine fossils of varying types and sizes and you can often find individual fossilized shells that can be collected," notes Erik C.
Beach access trails: At Beachside State Recreation Site, campers enjoy multiple entry points to the shore. "Short walk through the campground to the beach (3 access points). When it was windy on the beach, the campground was quiet and not very windy," explains Michelle P., highlighting the wind protection the campground layout provides.
Forest exploration: For more seclusion, the narrow forest road leading to Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek provides a nature immersion experience. "Lots of forest and greenery surrounding the area!" says Emma T. The road requires careful navigation but rewards with quiet camping spots surrounded by dense coastal forest.
What campers like
Off-season tranquility: Winter and early spring visits offer a different coastal camping experience. "We stayed during the rainiest five days I've ever camped....but still had a great time. We were able to bike to town and the staff was fantastic," reports David & Sue C. from Thousand Trails Whalers Rest.
Beach geology: The rocky formations at Seal Rocks provide excellent tide pool viewing. "You do have to cross 101 to make it to the beach definitely not ADA accessible," notes Heather L., providing important accessibility information about the rocky terrain.
Sunset viewing spots: Campground selection affects sunset viewing quality. "The proximity to the water makes the sunsets better here than at some of the other campgrounds," explains Erik C. about Beverly Beach State Park, comparing it favorably to other coastal options.
What you should know
Site selection strategy: At South Beach State Park Campground, camper Patrick M. advises: "Well-kept, helpful gate attendant, with shady sites on the outer edges of the loops. All the sites are relatively close together in lined-up, soldier style—still, not as regimented as a commercial RV park or resort."
Sound considerations: Foghorns and traffic noise affect different campgrounds differently. "Be prepared for the fog horns going off all night on the jetty," warns Kevin R. about staying in the yurts at South Beach State Park.
Weather preparation: Coastal weather can change rapidly. "It was nice flat ground and easy access to the beach through the campground. The surroundings were aesthetically beautiful... Some of the trees looked alien because of the winter floods and above ground root growth," observes Tiffany E., referencing the impacts of coastal flooding on the landscape.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programming: Many coastal parks offer structured activities for children. "[Beverly Beach] has nice showers, close to the beach and such a cute little store!!" notes Hana M., while another camper mentions "Nice educational programs for kids" as a standout feature.
Insect awareness: Mosquitos affect some campgrounds more than others. "I have never had any issues or problems. It is just a very busy park, and yes there are mosquitoes, so be prepared," advises Nick H. about South Beach State Park, suggesting repellent is essential during summer months.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Look for resident wildlife at various parks. "We seen stellar jays and a woodpecker. Bathrooms and showers were clean," reports Debbie I., highlighting the birdwatching opportunities while camping.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: For Tillicum Beach Campground, camper Cassie C. offers this practical tip: "People reserve and don't show up. Or they reserve a spot, show up and like the first come first serve spot better so nab that without canceling their reservation since cell reception is bad. So if the sign says campground is full, still ask around. We got a spot on a Friday in summer this way."
Site setup challenges: At Tillicum Beach, Kristin D. warns about site layout issues: "We camped in space 32 and did not like the set up for our 30ft 5th wheel. The table, fire pit, and outdoor space is on opposite side of door and awning, and there is not enough space on door/awning side for any chairs or hanging out."
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies widely between campgrounds. "We had better luck with our Verizon and WeBoost," reports John R. about Seal Rocks RV Cove, suggesting signal boosters help in areas with weak reception.
