Coastal camping around Wheeler offers terrain variety within the Tillamook State Forest and along the Oregon coastline. Summer temperatures average 65-75°F while winter months drop to 35-45°F with increased rainfall. Several campgrounds in the area provide access to both forested trails and ocean beaches, allowing campers to experience diverse Pacific Northwest ecosystems during their stay.
What to do
Crabbing excursions: 5-minute walk at Jetty Fishery Marina & RV Park where you can rent equipment and have your catch cooked onsite. "You can fish for crabs, they cook for you here, the people are extremely friendly and helpful, you could rent a boat, families are welcome, and the site has an amazing view when the sun came up," notes Derek S.
Trail hiking at Tillamook State Forest Nehalem Falls Campground: Follow the falls trail for a 30-minute walk through old growth forest. "The entire hike is a pretty easy and birding opportunities are many. Views of an old railroad/camp and plenty of spots to stop and take it all in as well as picnic," says Deacon J.
Shipwreck exploration at Fort Stevens State Park: Visit the Peter Iredale shipwreck ruins at sunset for photography opportunities. "Visiting the Iredale shipwreck especially at sunset is beautiful. Also visiting the forts and cannons are fun. Bring mosquito repellent!" recommends Gail S.
What campers like
Riverfront access at Cook Creek: Camp at designated free sites with direct creek access. "We scored the most beautiful spot last week, designated spot #5. It is very private and there is a short walk (2-3min) down to your very own private part of the river. There was a very clear beautiful pool of water in the center and rapids/rocks on both sides for exploring," shares Cameren M.
Indoor amenities at Cannon Beach RV Resort: Enjoy the heated indoor pool and hot tub after beach activities. "Cool campground. There's a pool and spa. There's also a lodge with a game room and laundry. Full hookups. Paved loop for kids and bikes," notes C.M., making it a good option during unpredictable weather.
Natural scenery at Cape Lookout State Park Campground: Appreciate privacy between campsites created by substantial vegetation. "We love how much privacy is usually found between sites. For the most part, trees and bushes are substantial enough to make your site feel like you have your own sanctuary," explains Nathan R.
What you should know
Campsite popularity timing: Nehalem Falls Campground went from readily available to consistently full after media exposure. "Five or six years ago one could easily get a campsite on Friday evening, but last year (2015) we were unable to get a camping spot on a Tuesday morning!" reports Chad L.
Shower facilities vary: Pay showers at many campgrounds require quarters. At Barview Jetty County Campground, "Showers are available, there are three private unisex showers at each restroom complex, but they are pay-showers. The rates are reasonable starting at $0.50 for 4 minutes and each additional quarter adds 2 minutes."
Beach erosion awareness: High tide timing affects beach access at some coastal campgrounds. "Look up the tides though, since there's such a short beach to the water, during high tide the beach disappears," advises Trina C. about coastal camping.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and biking loops: Most campgrounds provide safe spaces for children. "Great 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.
Multi-generational traditions at Sea Ranch Resort: Family-friendly camping close to Cannon Beach. "This is a great campground to stay at if you're visiting Cannon Beach and nicely centrally located along the coast to visit the surrounding areas. You can walk into town (2.5 blocks) and the spaces are very green with picnic tables at each," explains Alicia F.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Wheeler: Many nearby sites accommodate pets with walking trails. "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!" reports Trina C., describing a pet-friendly coastal experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability for long stays: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Wheeler offer partial hookups. "We've been living in oregon forever but never visited this park. rv spots are nice and level but not much privacy between spaces. very nice setup with yurts right across the drive from rvs in loop a. nice for meeting family or friends with no vehicle," shares a camper at Nehalem Bay.
Seasonal RV site considerations: Outer loops typically provide more space between sites. "However, inner loops you have a neighbor front, back and sides. You can hear too much because they are fairly close. This place stays fairly full so reserve in advance to get an outer spot," recommends Misty Z.
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