Camping areas near Wheeler, Oregon provide access to both coastal beaches and forested areas at elevations ranging from sea level to 200 feet. Fall temperatures average between 45-65°F with increased rainfall probability. Most forest service campgrounds close by mid-September, while state parks along the coast maintain year-round operations with reduced services during winter months.
What to do
Beach exploration: Nehalem Bay State Park Campground offers direct access to miles of coastline and beach activities. One visitor described the experience: "We went crabbing just a ways away from the state park, and it was a beautiful day and a lot of fun. Later we walked on the beach down to the park and had a bit of a hike."
Horseback riding: Coast trails provide guided riding opportunities for all ages. A camper at Nehalem Bay noted: "Great dune area. Always horses riding on the beach too. Super neat experience." Another mentioned that you can "go crabbing at Kelly's and then horseback riding on the beach!"
Tide pooling: Coastal locations become natural aquariums during low tide. When staying at Cape Lookout State Park Campground, cabins are "steps from tidal pools means great beach combing in dry weather!" Be aware that "during high tide the beach disappears" so checking tide tables is essential.
Historic exploration: Military sites along the northern coast provide educational opportunities. A visitor at Fort Stevens State Park Campground explains: "Visiting the Iredale shipwreck especially at sunset is beautiful. Also visiting the forts and cannons are fun. Bring mosquito repellent!"
What campers like
Proximity to towns: The Wheeler area provides convenient access to coastal communities for supplies and dining. When staying at Cannon Beach RV Resort, campers appreciate that it's a "central place to stay for access to Ecola State park to the North and Oswald State park and Beach to the south for hikes trail."
River activities: Fresh water options complement ocean activities near Wheeler. At Tillamook State Forest Nehalem Falls Campground, "the tent sites are very private and right on the Nehalem River which is warm enough to swim in." Another camper notes the campground is "nestled near a river, with easy access to the falls trail."
Winter solitude: Off-season camping provides a different experience with fewer crowds. A visitor at Cape Lookout State Park Campground mentioned: "We had the D loop almost to ourselves. I can imagine it feels pretty crowded in summer." The park provides "free, very private showers! Soap in the bathrooms! Super nice and clean!"
Wildlife viewing: Animal encounters enhance camping experiences near Wheeler. One camper at Barview Jetty County Campground shared: "We had the V loop almost to ourselves. The V loop is nice because it's close access to the beach," and "we were amazed there were no bugs." Others reported seeing elk herds in winter months.
What you should know
Weather variability: Coastal conditions change rapidly throughout the day. A camper at Nehalem Bay State Park Campground noted: "Campground just opened back up after redoing it - the bathrooms are very nice and the rv pads and electric is redone." This renovation helps manage the impacts of coastal weather.
Site privacy differences: Campground layouts vary significantly in spacing and screening. At Barview Jetty County Campground, "the RV and camp sites are solid. Some really good ones, and others very basic and open." Another camper mentioned: "There was very minimal privacy from neighbors. It was incredibly loud."
Reservation requirements: Most coastal campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. For Sea Ranch Resort: "We were fortunate to get a yurt (number 7) for one night in July as a walk in. The ranger was shocked as they are usually sold out months in advance."
Trail conditions: Coastal paths often present challenges for those with mobility concerns. A visitor at Cape Lookout State Park Campground advised: "Do the Cape Lookout peninsula hike! Gorgeous views without great effort. Lots of tree roots that will tire your feet but not a strenous hike overall: ~5 miles roundtrip."
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly options: Paved loops provide safe cycling areas for children. At Nehalem Bay State Park Campground, campers appreciate the "two mile bike/walking path through the woods and along the bay. The beach is only a five minute walk away." Another visitor mentioned a "good paved loop for kids to ride bikes."
Educational programs: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led activities. At Fort Stevens State Park Campground, families enjoy "going to the amphitheater for some stories" and exploring historical sites where "we brought the kids and expected to listen to their complaints the whole time, but they were intrigued by everything!"
Protected swimming areas: Inland waterways provide safer alternatives to ocean swimming. At Cook Creek, one visitor found "a very clear beautiful pool of water in the center and rapids/rocks on both sides for exploring." Another camper noted: "The site is really beautiful, and the sites seem to be really well-spread out."
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play structures. Fort Stevens State Park Campground offers "so much for kids to do from exploring, riding bikes, fishing" and Sea Ranch Resort provides "walk to beach, coffee and restaurants if desired" making it convenient for families with varying interests.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Loop placement significantly affects noise and privacy levels. At Cannon Beach RV Resort, RVers advise: "Good angles for backing in. However, inner loops you have a neighbor front, back and sides. You can hear too much because they are fairly close... reserve in advance to get an outer spot."
Winter camping considerations: Year-round facilities require preparation for colder months. An RVer at Nehalem Bay State Park Campground observed: "Right now in February it is very quiet" and "we've lived in oregon forever but never visited this park. rv spots are nice and level but not much privacy between spaces."
Utility hookups: Service availability varies between campgrounds. At Barview Jetty County Campground, RVers note "the campground has a combination of tent sites and rv sites. additionally there are cabins available... Large campsites! At a lot of camp sites there is even room to have tents and an RV!"
Off-season specials: Lower rates may be available during shoulder seasons. One RVer staying near Wheeler noted: "We were at loop D. Just a few minutes walk to the beach. Great campsite" while another mentioned coastal campgrounds are "just the perfect little spot to have a base camp and explore the Oregon coast!"
