Tillamook State Forest manages Nehalem Falls Campground as one of its more sought-after sites along the Nehalem River valley, where old-growth tree cover and a rock-lined stretch of river with swimming holes draw consistent crowds from the Portland area. The campground holds roughly 20 sites in a mix of configurations, including approximately six walk-in tent sites positioned directly on the river, around ten drive-in car camping sites, and two group sites. Group sites are the only ones that accept reservations; the rest are first-come, first-served.
Crowd patterns here are worth taking seriously. The campground gained significant attention after being featured on a regional outdoor television program, and reviewers consistently report it filling well before weekends. Les P. advises arriving Thursday to secure a good spot, and one account from September 2018 found the campground 80 percent full on the last Friday of the season. The camp host, by at least one account, actively discourages additional publicity. Campers who want a quieter experience might consider nearby alternatives such as Cook Creek Road Dispersed — Nehalem River or Tillamook State Forest Cook Creek Campground, both located a short distance southeast.
The falls loop trail is the main draw beyond the river itself. Deacon J. describes it as "easy and birding opportunities are many," with remnants of an old railroad camp visible along the route, though he notes to "wear clothing suitable for wet hiking." The Nehalem River runs warm enough for swimming in summer, and the campground also supports fishing and kayaking.
Amenities include drinking water, toilets, picnic tables, and firewood for purchase. The site nearest the dumpster can pick up occasional odors, so it's worth requesting a different spot. The season runs from late May through mid-September. A Tillamook State Forest Recreation Guide covers the full range of places to camp near Nehalem and can help campers plan around the valley's several campground options.
Arriving midweek, with a backup plan in mind, puts campers in the best position to find a site and make the most of what this stretch of the Nehalem River has to offer.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsTillamook State Forest Nehalem Falls Campground is located in Oregon near Tillamook State Forest
Public CampgroundDirections
Located at Milepost 7, Foss Road. From the junction of U.S. Highway 101 and State Route 53 drive east on SR 53 for 1.3 miles, turn south on Miami Foley Road, travel one mile, turn east (left) off Foss Road and go seven miles to the campground on the left.
Coordinates
45.72624347 N
123.77093897 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
- Yurts
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 43 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 59 min from Longview, WA
- 2 hrs 1 min from Salem, OR
- 2 hrs 24 min from Albany, OR
