Beachside State Recreation Site
Camp Steps from the Surf on Oregon’s Central Coast
Beachside State Recreation Site delivers exactly what its name promises — a campground just steps from a magnificent stretch of the Oregon coast. Located between Waldport and Yachats on the Central Oregon Coast, this park puts you directly on miles of broad, sandy Pacific Ocean beach with nothing but a gentle dune trail between your tent and the surf.
Camping
- 42 tent sites nestled among shore pines and coastal vegetation
- 32 hookup sites with electricity and water for RVs and trailers
- 2 yurts (one pet-friendly) with heat, lighting, and lockable doors for rainy-season comfort
- Hiker/biker camp for those traveling the Oregon Coast Trail or Highway 101 by bicycle
- Flush toilets, hot showers, and camp host on site
- Season: March 15–October 31, weather permitting. Reserve up to 9 months in advance.
The Beach
The wide sandy beach stretches for miles in both directions, making Beachside an outstanding base for coastal exploration.
- Beachcombing: Agates, driftwood, and shells wash ashore regularly
- Whale Watching: Gray whale migration passes close to shore (peak December–May)
- Kite Flying: Steady coastal winds make this a premier kite-flying beach
- Surfing: Surfers enjoy the waves, especially during stormier winter months
- Winter Storm Watching: The Oregon coast’s dramatic winter storms are a spectacle from the dunes
Visitor Tips
- Best Time: July–September for warmest and driest weather. Winter for storm watching and solitude.
- Nearby: Yachats (5 mi south) — the “Gem of the Oregon Coast.” Cape Perpetua, Heceta Head Lighthouse, and Sea Lion Caves are all within a short drive.
- Crabbing & Clamming: Available within 30 miles at Alsea Bay and other estuaries.
- Layers: Oregon coast weather changes quickly. Bring rain gear and warm layers year-round.
Things to Do
Oregon showcases 362 miles of public coastline, ancient forests, volcanic peaks, and high desert canyonlands. Activities include hiking old-growth forests, tide pooling, beachcombing, camping oceanfront, kayaking mountain lakes, fishing for steelhead, and rock climbing at Smith Rock.
Best Time to Visit
June through September is prime for the west side. The coast can be enjoyed year-round. Eastern Oregon enjoys sunshine but extreme summer heat. Oregon’s coastline is public by law.
Visitor Tips
Free to enter on foot or by bike. Vehicle access requires a $5 day-use permit or $30 annual permit. Camping reservations up to 9 months in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Oregon state parks free?
Oregon state parks are free to enter on foot or by bicycle. Vehicle access requires a $5 day-use permit or a $30 annual permit. Oregon’s entire coastline is public by law, guaranteeing beach access everywhere.
What are the best state parks on the Oregon Coast?
Top coastal parks include Ecola (stunning viewpoints), Cape Lookout (rainforest hiking), Shore Acres (botanical gardens and storm watching), Samuel H. Boardman (dramatic sea stacks), and Oswald West (surfer’s cove).
Can I camp on the beach in Oregon?
While camping directly on Oregon beaches is not permitted, several oceanfront campgrounds like Cape Lookout, Sunset Bay, and Harris Beach offer campsites just steps from the shore. Reserve months ahead for summer.
When is the best time to visit Oregon state parks?
June through September is prime season for dry weather. The coast can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings spectacular wildflowers in the Columbia River Gorge (April-May). Winter offers dramatic storm watching along the coast.
Explore More Oregon State Parks
Beachside State Recreation Site is one of many outstanding state parks in Oregon. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Oregon guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
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