Last Minute Camping Tips for the Oregon Coast

Wreck of the Peter Iredale, Fort Stevens State Park

(Oregon Coast) - They are a large part of the reason most of us Oregonians live here. Oregon’s State Parks on the coast are among the finest in the world, with a marvelous mix of the rugged and untamed with the civilized amenities of the modern world within reach.

You can explore these beaches a little like Lewis & Clark did, with the 21st Century not far out of reach. Oregon's public-run coastal campgrounds are some of the most impressive as well, and let you camp underneath the stars with the sound of the waves not far away.

With the region’s “second summer” phenomenon still in swing for another three weeks or so, you’re likely in for mostly dry weather until the middle part of October. Yet the crowds will be missing, and the Oregon coast becomes a sort of vacation dreamland or both tourist and regular to the area.

Fort Stevens State Park

It's the closest thing Oregon has to remnants of a castle, with the old concrete battlements, used from the Civil War throughout World War II, emitting all the vibes of an ancient fortress. Wander these and glimpse history up close. You'll find them in a few spots throughout the park, as well as the remnants of the barracks.

This enormous state park also contains the remains of the wreck of the Peter Iredale, a ship that crashed here around 1910. There are freshwater lakes and a myriad of trails in this endlessly fascinating place as well.

Parts of “An Officer and a Gentleman” were filmed here back in the 80’s.

There are 174 sites with full hookups, 303 have electricity, 42 tent sites, 15 yurts and four group tent areas. (800) 551-6949.

Saddle Mountain State Natural Area

Along Highway 26, a must-stop is this trail to the top of Saddle Mountain. There are ten primitive campsites near the parking lot. From there, it's 2.5 miles to the top. Officials urge you to layer your clothing, as the temperature is very different at the summit.

Oswald West State Park

It's a popular place with windsurfers and surfers, with the crescent-shaped Short Sands Beach looking a little like California in really crowded moments - not uncommon on balmy Second Summer days. Walk the suspended bridge over the creek for an added, light thrill, or simply wander the length of this beautiful beach to discover interesting shapes and colors along the cliffs and at either end of the basalt walls of the cove. There are some trail overlooks meandering around Cape Falcon. Plus, you'll find you're right in between the wonderful towns of Manzanita and Cannon Beach.

There are 30 walk-in tent sites, and wheelbarrows are provided. (800) 551-6949.

Nehalem Bay State Park

It's the beginning of a wild and wonderful 2.4-mile walk to the end of the Nehalem Bay Spit, walking among huge, fluffy dunes, and into the midst of a haven for all sorts of wildlife. Nearby, Manzanita and the other towns of the Nehalem Bay provide an abundance of beaches, restaurants, shops, some nightlife possibilities, and a funky art and antique scene.

There are 18 yurts, a horse camp with 17 corral sites, and a hiker/biker camp. (800) 551-6949. During the summer months, grab a horse ride for two hours, for a sunset ride, or for a half day - thanks to Northwest Equine Outfitters (503-801-7433).

Cape Lookout State Park

Just west of Tillamook, in the Three Capes Tour area, one of these capes provides incredible opportunities for recreation and camping. Wander the beach here to encounter a beach with some pristine, if not sometimes unusual qualities. Hike to the headland above on a stunning two-mile path full of vistas. Nearby, enjoy the secret beaches of Oceanside and of Short Beach, just north of the tiny town.

There's a lot for the camper here. You'll find 176 tent sites, 38 sites with full hookups (one with electricity), 13 yurts, four areas with group tents and three deluxe cabins (with bathrooms, kitchen, tv/vcr). There's a reservable meeting hall and a picnic shelter. (800) 551-6949.

Devils Lake State Recreation Area

Downtown Lincoln City is just a walk away from this wildlife-filled fresh water lake, and it's the only state campground in the middle of a city. It's popular with all sorts of water sports, and features state run kayak tours.

There are 28 full hookups with cable TV, four with electricity and cable, 10 yurts and 55 tent sites. (800) 551-6949.

Beverly Beach State Park

Just before you reach Newport - if you're coming from the north - you'll discover this vast spread of sand and cliffs, which you can see from the highway above. The campground is to the east, and a tunnel under the highway allows campers to stroll out onto the beach. It's a popular stretch for fossil hunters to the south, and big for surfers to the north.

The forest-sheltered campground boasts 53 sites with full hookup, 75 spots with electricity, and 128 tent sites. There are 21 yurts, some of which have cable TV, 5 group tent areas, a meeting hall and a hiker/biker camp. No trailers of any kind are allowed. 800-452-5687.

South Beach State Park

This sprawling, humongous park seems to go on forever - both on its immaculate sands and along its meandering lanes filled with grassy campsites. Explore the boulders of the south jetty at the park's most northern end, or hike some nine miles of unobstructed beach, until you reach a sizable creek and the rocky bluffs of Seal Rock.

There's a reservable group meeting hall, 288 sites with electricity, six primitive sites, 27 yurts, three group tent areas and a hiker/biker camp. There are also sports facilities. 800-452-5687.

Beachside State Recreation Site

Between Waldport and Yachats, this small but beautiful park is only open until October 31. A pristine, broad beach is the main attraction here, with all sorts of other attractions like Newport, Seal Rock and Yachats a short drive away.

There are 33 electrical sites, 45 tent spots, two yurts and a hiker/biker camp. (800) 551-6949.

Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park

Just north of Florence, this stunning spot is in the middle of the most dramatic beach areas on the whole coast. The Heceta Head Lighthouse and some grandiose rocky viewpoints lay just south of it. To the north, you'll find the rugged landscapes which change from flat sands to wild, basalt slab-covered shorelines as you head towards Cape Perpetua and Yachats. It's popular for lovers of truly wild wildlife and rhododendrons.

Reservations can't be made on these 58 full hookup campsites. There are also seven walk-in tent sites and two yurts which are reservable. (800) 551-6949.

Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park

Just south of Florence you'll find this gateway to all those phenomenal, gargantuan dunes. Two miles of sand dunes and two freshwater lakes are just the beginning.

There are 47 full hookup sites, 119 with electricity, 191 tent sites, 10 yurts and six group tent areas. 800-452-5687.

Pictured here is the bridge in Florence, just on the other side of the river from Honeyman State Park.

DIVE INTO LUXURY, HISTORY AT THE TIDES

THE TIDES BY THE SEA, Seaside. For over 80 years, The Tides has been a favorite of Seaside visitors. History meets modern luxury here. 51 oceanfront condos, individually owned and decorated. Find suites for couples, small apartments with fireplaces and kitchenettes, one or two bedroom family units with fireplaces, kitchens and dining rooms. There are wonderful oceanview cottages that sleep anywhere from two to eight people, with two bedrooms, some with lofts, fireplaces and kitchens.
Meanwhile, the heated outdoor pool, enormous grounds with picnic tables and location at the quiet southern end of Seaside make for some memorable means of play and repose. 2316 Beach Drive. 800-548-2846. www.thetidesbythesea.com.

BREATHTAKING CLIFFTOP IN NEWPORT

STARFISH POINT is located on the Central Oregon Coast - in Newport - and offers only the finest in luxury condominium lodging. At Starfish Point, every unit is focused on the beauty of the sea and the beach.
All of the units boast two bedrooms, two bathrooms, designer kitchens, wireless broadband Internet, fireplaces, Jacuzzi’s and private decks - surrounding you in soothing relaxation. We have a friendly staff dedicated to high quality and superb customer service. 140 NW 48th Street, Newport. (541) 265-3751. (800) 870-7795. www.starfishpoint.com