Umpqua Sand Camping, near the Siuslaw National Forest in Oregon, is a unique spot that draws in those looking for a blend of adventure and natural beauty. This place is all about the sand dunes, offering direct access for dune buggies and ATVs, making it a playground for thrill-seekers.

The campground is pretty basic, with no hookups or restrooms on-site, but that’s part of its charm. Campers have enjoyed setting up hammocks among the trees and gathering around campfires, as one visitor noted, “We found lots of wood and had a nice fire.” Just keep in mind that the sound of off-road vehicles can be a constant backdrop, so if you’re after peace and quiet, this might not be your ideal spot.

For those who love the outdoors, the views here are stunning, with the dunes stretching out towards the ocean. Reviewers have highlighted the unique perspectives from different areas of the dunes, making it a great place for photography or simply soaking in the scenery. Just be cautious if you’re pulling in with a camper; it’s recommended to lower your tire pressure to navigate the sandy terrain better.

If you’re traveling with pets, you’re in luck—dogs are welcome here, which adds to the campground's appeal for many visitors. Whether you’re planning to ride the dunes or just enjoy the sandy landscape, Umpqua Sand Camping offers a memorable experience for those ready to embrace the great outdoors.

## Overview

 Umpqua is home to the tallest sand dunes in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Off-road vehicle riding is a popular activity here, and visitors are rewarded with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean from the tops of the dunes. 
## Recreation

 The main attraction is off-road vehicle riding. The Umpqua area features a large open riding zone with expansive sand dunes and stunning vistas of the ocean and the surrounding topography. Each year, the Reedsport/Winchester Bay Chamber of Commerce hosts the summertime Dunefest event for riders of all ages. Dunefest provides opportunities for motocross racing, treasure hunting in the sand, freestyle riding shows, and more. 
## Natural Features

 Campsites are dispersed amongst the dunes along the Pacific Coast. The Umpqua River is a short drive north and Eel Lake is a short drive south. The sand camping area is part of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, which is known for its wind-sculpted sand dunes towering up to 500 feet above sea level. 
## Contact Info

 For facility specific information, please call (541) 271-6000. 
## Nearby Attractions

 Visit Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, to the north of the Umpqua sand camping area. The Umpqua River Lighthouse stands on the site of the first lighthouse built on the Oregon Coast in 1857. The current lighthouse dates back to 1890. 
## Charges & Cancellations

 Campsites that are not occupied after 24 hours of arrival time will be considered as a \"no show\" and sites will be released for others to reserve. If campers will be arriving after 24 hours of their arrival time, they are encouraged to call the ranger station at 541-271-6000 to let staff know.

Umpqua Sand Camping

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Lakeside

The Best Camping Near Lakeside, Oregon

We enjoyed our visit here other than the fact that it was so loud all the time. It makes sense due to the fact that's it's a off-road vehicles paradise! We just hadn't considered the volume. Cool place though. Sand dunes right on the beach. As far as the eye can see! Dogs are welcome here which is why we chose this spot. If we bring dirt bikes next time we will definitely stay here again!

Cool spot but so loud!

If you're into riding quads or ATVs, then this is the place to go. There are miles of sand dunes with great step climbs and great views. We were able to pull our pop-up camper right out on the dunes. This is home to the notorious Banshee hill, a long step climb that can be intimidating if you are new but a thrill to ride up.

You have to be cautious though, lots of people get suck pulling their campers out onto the sand. You need to take your tire pressure down to 15psi. Know where your going and walk it first.

There are restrooms at the parking lots which are a but if a ride to get to.  

This is honestly one of my favorite places to camp because it's the access to the dunes.

Camping on the dunes

This campground is still a favorite of mine due to its great access to the dunes and beautiful views. The dunes have five fingers all of which have their own unique view of the dunes, lakes, and ocean.

  

These campgrounds are primitive, in that there are no firepits, hookups or restrooms. If you need to use the restroom you need to drive/ride down to the parking lot. The park host is friendly and knowledgeable.

Great Views

We really needed a place to stay and this one was open. It was cool we decided to hang out hammocks up in the trees and sleep in them for the night. We found lots of wood and had a nice fire. We were right in the sand dunes with lots of dune buggies! It did rain on us during the night so we ended up sleeping in the car. There were also lots of nats/mosquitos which were very annoying but kinda went away as it got darker outside. 

Photos of Umpqua Sand Camping

Real photos from real campers