Multiple loops spread across forested terrain make Nehalem Bay State Park Campground one of Oregon's larger coastal camping destinations. The campground sits behind sand dunes that separate it from the Pacific Ocean, with paved roads connecting six distinct camping loops labeled A through F.
Sites pack closely together with minimal screening between neighbors, though pine trees provide overhead canopy in most areas. MickandKarla W. notes that "one side of the road (outer sites) has angled sites, and the other (inside sites) has 90-degree back-ins." The angled sites on loop exteriors accommodate larger rigs better than the straight back-ins. Electric and water hookups reach all sites, with two dump stations located near the entrance.
Beach access requires a sandy walk over the dunes, which B M. describes as "up a hill in the sand and was challenging carrying chairs & a cooler but well worth it." The wide beach allows for bonfires and provides ample space even during busy periods. Deer frequently visit campsites, particularly in the morning and evening hours. The boat ramp provides access to Nehalem Bay for crabbing and clamming.
Oregon Parks and Recreation manages this facility year-round, with reservations recommended for summer visits. Loops D, E, and F operate as first-come, first-serve during off-season months when crowds thin considerably. The entrance road from Highway 101 contains potholes that can challenge low-clearance vehicles. Hot showers and restrooms occupy central locations within the camping areas.
Weekend and holiday periods bring large family groups that create a bustling atmosphere throughout the loops. For those seeking additional coastal options, campsites around Manzanita provide alternatives within the same beach region. This campground works best for campers who prioritize beach access and full hookups over site privacy.
Description
Set between the ocean and the bay, Nehalem Bay Campground is situated on a 4 mile-long sand spit. The campground setting is in shore pines bordered by rolling dunes. Walk over the dunes and you’re at the beach building sand castles, flying a kite or relaxing to the sound of the ocean. A forested 1.8 mile long bike path provides a breathtaking view of the bay. You may see deer and elk grazing and a variety of birds. Kayaking, crabbing, fishing and clamming are popular activities.
Park features include a 2,400 foot airstrip that includes a fly-in camp. A hiker-biker camp offers sites for those -walking and riding bikes. Yurts are available as an alternative camping experience. Primitive horse campsites offer horse enthusiasts camping with several miles of trails and beach to explore.
Camping and other facilities:
-265 electrical sites with water
-18 yurts (nine pet friendly; see our Pets in Parks FAQ for more info)
-Hot showers and flush toilets
-Horse camp with 17 primitive sites
-Hiker/biker camp
-Airport camp with primitive fly-in sites
-RV dump station
-Meeting hall
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Emerald Ash Borer, a highly invasive insect, has been sighted in Oregon for the first time. Help contain this extremely damaging insect by following these firewood tips: - Buy locally harvested firewood at or near your destination. - Buy certified heat-treated firewood ahead of time, if available.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundNehalem Bay State Park Campground is located in Oregon
Directions
Located between Manzanita and Nehalem off Highway 101 on Necarney City Road.
Address
34600 Garey St
Nehalem, OR 97131
Coordinates
45.6964437 N
123.93698336 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 31 usersLast on 4/18/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 46 usersLast on 4/18/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 4/18/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 31 usersLast on 4/18/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 46 usersLast on 4/18/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 4/18/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
- Yurts
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 38 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 53 min from Salem, OR
- 1 hr 54 min from Longview, WA
- 2 hrs 13 min from Corvallis, OR



























































