Cape Perpetua offers a range of pet-friendly camping options situated within the coastal forest of Oregon's central coast. The area sits at approximately 800 feet above sea level where the forest meets the Pacific, creating unique microclimates between the beach and inland campsites. Winter camping typically sees temperatures between 35-55°F with frequent rain, while summer months average 55-75°F with morning fog often clearing by midday.
What to do
Hike to viewpoints: From Tillicum Beach Campground, take a short drive to Cape Perpetua for whale watching opportunities. "We heard good things about the campground and made a reservation. What we did not realize is that while the ocean facing sites are pretty cool the other sites are pretty awful," notes marcus K., highlighting the importance of selecting ocean-view sites.
Fossil hunting: Beverly Beach State Park Campground offers excellent opportunities for discovering marine fossils. "FOSSILS! Literally everywhere on this 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," writes Erik C.
Sand dune exploration: Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park Campground provides direct access to Oregon's famous dunes. "Really close access to the sand dunes and we rented sand boards for $10 a day and had a blast sand boarding," reports Carson C. The dunes create a unique playground for dogs and their owners.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Yachats maintain excellent bathrooms. At Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park Campground, "Clean bathrooms, good space between campsites. Nestled in the tall trees, it would be cool during a hot summer," explains D37.
Trail accessibility: Many campers appreciate the network of dog-walking paths. "There is a quarter mile trail that leads to the Visitor Center that overlooks the ocean. From the Visitor Center, there are several different trails to various geological formations such as Thor's Well, Devil's Churn, and Spouting Horn," shares Gabrielle S. about the walking options around Cape Perpetua.
Site privacy: Vegetation between sites creates natural boundaries. At Alder Dune Campground, "The camping spaces are spread out and isolated by vegetation, providing some privacy," notes James R., which helps prevent dogs from becoming overstimulated by neighboring campers.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Winter camping requires preparation. "We stayed here for a church group camping event. Clean bathrooms, great sites. Lots of room for kids to run around. Close to the beach and a great local brewery," reports Jenna F. about Cape Perpetua, but winter visitors should expect more rain and potentially muddy conditions.
Beach access challenges: Not all beaches near campgrounds are easily accessible with pets. At Beachside State Recreation Site, "Site 74 perfect for rooftop tent camping. Windbreak, no mosquitos, decently separated. Road noise is not an issue if you are on the sites adjacent to the beach," Andre J. explains.
Wildlife encounters: Keep dogs leashed to prevent wildlife disturbances. "We had site #5 and the campground hosts were so kind and helpful. The spot was secluded with a trail behind it which led to a lake and a little ways to some beautiful dunes," shares Erin F. about Alder Dune, where wildlife sightings are common.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campsites with natural boundaries: Sites with vegetation barriers help contain children and pets. "We stayed at site A-16 in mid-May and absolutely loved it. Super pretty spot, tucked right next to a little creek. It felt private without being too far off the path," Nicole R. recommends at Sutton Campground.
Look for educational opportunities: Many pet-friendly campgrounds offer junior ranger programs. "Special and unique landscape right in the center of Oregon Dunes. We love it here. Located close to the quant town of Florence. Lots of nearby hikes, beach access, and of course the dunes," writes Blaine B. about Honeyman Memorial State Park.
Select campgrounds with amenities: Facilities matter when camping with kids and pets. "The yurt comes with a bunk bed (top a twin and bottom maybe a full size), pull out couch, small table with 2 chairs and a heater. Our location was conveniently located near the bathroom which made for night bathroom visits easier," explains Nicole L. about Honeyman's family-friendly options.
Tips from RVers
Reserve ocean-view sites early: Premium spots fill quickly at coastal campgrounds. "Sites here are $34 for non-hookup sites, and if you can get one of the prime ocean view ones, it's well worth it. A lot of the other sites have somewhat of an ocean view as well," advises Laura M. regarding Tillicum Beach.
Check site dimensions carefully: Many older coastal campgrounds have tight fits. "Back in spaces, so a 40 foot RV would barely fit. This is an older but well maintained campground," warns D37 about Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park.
Consider hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the area. "We needed just 1 night and was able to find a spot for the night to relax in the woods. Spaces were spacious for our 43ft 5th wheel and truck," shares Lauren M. about Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park.
