It was a week before my fall semester of junior year began. I woke up on a Tuesday morning and decided that I would take a quick trip before i was engulfed by homework and responsibilities. I had been craving to see the west coast again. Since I have distant relative in Woodburn, Oregon, I researched campgrounds on the coast not too far from their house. Tillicum Beach Campground was an hour and a half drive from Woodburn and the pictures of the sites and nearby beach were beautiful.

I packed my clothes and camping gear and at noon on the 16th of August, I arrived at my the campground. I knew they offered first-come-first serve sites, and lucky for me there were two left! I paid for site 46. The perfect little site to make into home for a night. I pitched my tent and hammock and set out to do some hiking.

I came back early evening with tired feet and ready for dinner. I lit up the fire pit, sat with a bowl of pre-cooked veggies and rice, and enjoyed the sounds of the waves and a beautifully colored sky. I kept my eyes open for as long as I could to watch the stars that slowly emerged, then by 10 p.m. I called it a night.

It was a slow morning for me. I had only been able to reserve one night and wanted to enjoy every last minute at my site. I dismantled my tent and packed up most of my gear into my truck so I would read on my hammock without worry. A camoground host saw my belongings packed and said, "you have till 1, you should enjoy it until then." I smiled and told him I fully intended to. I finished a book I had been struggling to be consistent with on my hammock. On my hammock that was swinging under a perfectly orchestrated hut made my the branches of trees.

Closer to 1, I packed the rest and drove to the day-use parking area. I walked on the beach for about an hour. I savored the salty air, warm sand, charming homes, and views of the mountains. I occasionally went up to the waves and let the cold water kiss my toes. Then I sat. I sat for a while and soaked up the good western sun. I didn't want to leave this place. I didn't want to leave the other campers that smiled at me when I walked by. Or the locals that gave me advice on the best places to go. Or the beach that had been so comforting.

But I left with every intention to return. Hopefully next time with good company to experience it with.

What a trip. A much needed getaway.