Whalen Island Campground

After reviewing the sites we chose #14, as it was the longest available, 50’. Our truck and trailer are close to that length hooked up. Wonderful camp host Kathy greeted us And suggested we park sideways in the site so our door and dinette view were out to the water😊 The trailer filled the width of the site. We were able to park at the front of the site. Made our site seem very private! (We we’re a little apprehensive about how to get out if someone took the site next to us!) A group of cyclists moved in before our last night and were VERY CLOSE. They opted to move to another site where they could spread out and have more room as well.
So summer or busy weekends might be a little snug if the sites are full. Our experience was of respectful campers, however!
The sites are a little free form so lots of possibilities in how to park. We had great walks out on to the and flats while the tide was out plus a beautiful loop hike around the “island”.
Perfect spot an hour and a half from home, for a quick getaway!

Whalen Island is a lesser known, quiet, easy access park. Not a lot of shade, and cool, coastal breeze keep things cool. Nice place for groups os several vehicles to camp adjacent to each other. Easy access to trails. Fabulous easy kayaking access. Kind hosts.

The drive up to the campground looks like you are heading to a dairy farm, and lets just say those cows have the best ocean view of any other cows out there. This peaceful spot has a great hiking trail that takes you right to the ocean. There is a camp host on site, and the sites are evenly dispersed so you don't feel like you are on top of one another. The site we were in was tucked away, and we didn't feel disturbed at all! Best part, dogs allowed.

There is a flat marsh-area near the campground, which the tide comes far in at. So much so that there were people kayaking in it.

Not the traditional beach campsite, but absolutely gorgeous nevertheless.

Great campground for activities all day. When the tide comes in Sandlake fills up and wraps around creating the island. when the tide goes out there are cockles and crabs to find as well as hikes around the island. It's drycamping with a flush toilet and a holding tank dump site. Showers are available at Webb campground in Pacific City. Day trips to Pacific City, Cascade Head, or Tillamook make for a fun time.

This campground is no longere available. Neat day use spot for hiking and kayaking. Kayaking is dependent on the tides.

I love Whalen Island. You can kayak if you know the tidal pattern and the wildlife is amazing!