Maximize Your Adventure
An Oregon coast camping trip can be a gritty, primal experience that engages instincts city living never evokes. Other times, it might just come with an annual reminder not to forget anything when we’re loading up the SUV with gear. If you're more interested in making sure that everything is perfect--rather than making sure that everything is primal--you might prefer an Oregon coast vacation over Oregon coast camping. If this is the case, fret not; there are plenty of ways to experience nature as much as you want to--and no more than you need.
Whatever your Oregon coast camping style, there are two questions to answer before you leave that will minimize hassle and maximize rewards: where to stay? what to do?
It’s easy to think of an “adventure” as being mostly outdoors and potentially harrowing; but on an Oregon coast camping trip the perfect balance between nature and comfort can always be found. Do you want to really get away from everything? Consider Alder Dune Campground. Feel more comfortable tethered to the city? Devil’s Lake has you covered. Prefer to feel real carpet under your feet? Olivia Beach La Sirena or another home in Lincoln City's Olivia Beach community could be for you.
And since the Oregon coast is such a beloved destination for camping, there will never be any shortage of activities. From hiking to birdwatching to canoeing and even shopping, it will take no time at all to compile an itinerary that will make years of fond memories. The problem may just become how to find the time to fit it all in!
Oregon Coast Campgrounds: Where to Stay?
This is the most important question to answer when planning your Oregon coast camping trip. Although it’s a bit inland, Camp Dakota answers this question in a fun, innovative way. You can bring your own tent or RV, or rent a tent at the campground; alternatively, you can rent a teepee or yurt!
One of the most popular (albeit crowded) Oregon coast camping sites is Devil’s Lake State Park. Devil’s Lake offers a range of amenities to choose from; it just depends on how rugged you want your time to be. It’s the only Oregon coast campground that’s actually inside a city (Lincoln City, to be exact), so safety, luxury, and lots of other people are never too far away. It has a boat ramp, and it sets aside several spots for walk-ups each week--making it one of a few places you can book last-minute (just make sure to arrive early in the day of the walk-up).
Also in Lincoln City are several beautiful, nature-bound, camper-friendly vacation rentals. Ultimately, the way to maximize your Oregon coast camping adventure is to avoid camping cons and load up on camping pros. If staying in an actual house is the way to do that for you, then dig in. There is something for you while camping the Oregon coast!
Oregon Coast Campgrounds: What to Do?
Although “camping” may be defined by where you sleep, it’s just as important to make sure you experience nature while you’re awake during the day! Many campgrounds provide optional activities and many are close to off-site fun. What you’d like to fill your days with will help select your best place to stay.
Camp Dakota really takes the responsibility of answering this question. This campground has a paintball range, rock climbing, archery, and even panning for gold. They can also accommodate large groups and lead team-building games.
Devil’s Lake has educational exhibits you can hike to and see, an amphitheater that hosts events, boating, fishing, kayaking, and of course, hiking.
If you’re not sure what you’d like to do on your Oregon coast camping trip, check out Let’s Go Camping. It’s a state-sponsored program that helps newcomers get comfortable camping and have the most fun possible while learning to be safe and respectful of nature.
Of course, a vacation rental house will provide its own set of activities. Pools, private jacuzzis, games, and even gym equipment are all fairly commonly found at these places. And if you get a really good one, you can even walk to the beach.