Tolovana Park area glamping sites offer a mix of forest and oceanfront settings along the northern Oregon coast, where the average annual rainfall exceeds 80 inches and winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing. The region's camping options span from rustic tent sites to premium coastal cabins with modern amenities. Several campgrounds provide direct beach access with walking paths that lead straight to the shoreline.
What to do
Beach exploration at low tide: At Cape Disappointment State Park, visitors can discover marine life and explore shoreline features. "It's not a far walk to the beach and my toddler did it easily. Once on the beach, there is a big sign with a giant A so you can find your way back should you go for a walk," explains Christina F.
Crabbing opportunities: Jetty Fishery Marina & RV Park offers equipment rental and cooking services for fresh catch. "I showed up just looking for a site to put my tent up on my journey. I got here and found out you can fish for crabs, they cook for you here, the people are extremely friendly and helpful," notes Derek S.
Historical explorations: Fort Stevens State Park Campground features military history and coastal landmarks. "Visiting the Iredale shipwreck especially at sunset is beautiful. Also visiting the forts and cannons are fun. Bring mosquito repellent!" advises Gail S.
Horseback riding: Look for coastal riding opportunities near Nehalem Bay State Park Campground. "Great dune area. Always horses riding on the beach too. Super neat experience," shares Jamie B.
What campers like
Private forest settings: Wright's for Camping offers wooded sites close to town. "Large middle area for kids to run and play with nature (sticks, moss, pines, etc). Within walking distance to an awesome farmers market, the town of Cannon Beach, and haystack rock!" reports Andy B.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms across the region. "This campsite was my favorite stay. The family service was quite tentative and very kind. The bathrooms had showers with hot water and good pressure as well as outlets. They clean the bathrooms at least twice a day," notes Avery C. at Wright's for Camping.
Beach proximity: Cape Lookout State Park Campground offers easy shore access. "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!" says Trina C.
Outdoor activities: Recreational options abound at Nehalem Bay. "Nehalem Bay is beautiful, and it's just down the road from two jetties. My family and I went crabbing just a ways away from the state park, and it was a beautiful day and a lot of fun," shares Aaron R.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Many campgrounds have mixed levels of seclusion. "Although the spaces were very near each other, the location of the camping spots was great! With a nice view of the bay and smell of the ocean not far away," explains Elijah A. at Jetty Fishery Marina.
Weather considerations: Coastal conditions can change rapidly, especially in shoulder seasons. "Check the weather in Seaside before you go- poured almost the entire time we were there!" warns Amy H. about camping near Tolovana Park.
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites near Tolovana Park fill quickly. "Reserve early, as there are many repeat campers here who book the next year before they leave," advises Maurice G. about Wright's for Camping.
Tide awareness: Beach access changes with tidal patterns. "Look up the tides though, since there's such a short beach to the water, during high tide the beach disappears," cautions Trina C. about Cape Lookout.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Tillamook State Forest Nehalem Falls Campground offers gentle hiking options. "This site is about 20 sites of assorted variety in a hauntingly beautiful old growth forest. Nestled near a river, with easy access to the falls trail. The entire hike is a pretty easy and birding opportunities are many," explains Deacon J.
Play areas: Several campgrounds provide designated spaces for children. "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 C M. at Nehalem Bay State Park.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites offer learning experiences. "We brought the kids and expected to listen to their complaints the whole time, but they were intrigued by everything!" shares Cadie H. about Fort Stevens State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Natural settings provide wildlife encounters. "When we went the tide had gone out leaving little tide pools around. It was very nice," reports Deanna F. about her experience at Nehalem Bay.
Tips from RVers
Loop selection: Different campground sections offer varied experiences. "The north side has the getaway cabins, and cottages. It also has the pool/hot tub, cafe, group fire pit, kids play ground, and overflow parking. Pickleball/tennis courts. The north side is also the only side that has 50A power," explains Tracy about Thousand Trails Seaside.
Seasonal considerations: Coastal glamping near Tolovana Park varies by season. "We come down here to get away from the heat, inland, area. It's usually 20-30 degrees cooler, than inland. So when the heat hits the valley, everyone runs to the coastline," notes Tracy.
Site selection: Position matters for comfort. "We had a place along the wedge and it appeared to be less windy. That's totally anecdotal, though," shares C M. about Nehalem Bay State Park.
Camp facilities: Many locations provide useful amenities. "About 20 sites with full hooks up and another 20 with electricity. Dump station and potable water available," notes Alan K. about Camp Rilea Military Campground.
