🌤 Weather at South Beach State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40–58 °F | 50–64 °F | 42–66 °F | 38–52 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Newport 1 SE, 2 mi away, elevation 8 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
South Beach State Park: Oregon’s Premier Coastal Camping Destination
Just south of the historic Yaquina Bay Bridge in Newport, South Beach State Park stretches along miles of broad, wind-swept Pacific Ocean beach backed by sculpted sand dunes and coastal forest. It’s one of the most popular camping parks on the entire Oregon Coast, offering 227 electrical campsites, 27 yurts, and direct access to one of the most scenic stretches of Oregon’s legendary coastline.
South Beach isn’t just a campground with a beach — it’s a basecamp for the Central Oregon Coast. The Oregon Coast Aquarium, Hatfield Marine Science Center, two historic lighthouses, whale watching, and the charming bayfront of Newport are all within minutes. Whether you’re pitching a tent in the coastal dunes, settling into a heated yurt with your family, or jogging the paved Jetty Trail at sunrise, South Beach delivers the quintessential Oregon Coast experience.
Park Facts at a Glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | South of Newport, Lincoln County, Oregon |
| 📐 Park Size | 481 acres |
| 🏖️ Beach | Miles of broad, sandy Pacific Ocean beach |
| 🏕️ Camping | 227 electrical, 60 tent, 27 yurts, hiker/biker camp |
| 🥾 Trails | Multiple hiking, biking, and equestrian trails |
| 💰 Day-Use | $10 parking permit |
| 🕐 Hours | Open year-round |
| 📞 Phone | (541) 867-4715 |
| 🌐 Website | oregonstateparks.org |
| 📍 Address | 5580 S Coast Hwy, South Beach, OR 97366 |
Camping: Oregon’s Best Coastal Campground
South Beach State Park is one of Oregon’s largest and best-equipped coastal campgrounds, open year-round with options for every camping style:
| Site Type | Count | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Sites | 227 | Water and electrical hookups, paved pads, suitable for RVs and tents |
| Tent-Only Sites | 60 | Quieter, more natural setting in coastal forest |
| Yurts | 27 | Heated, lockable, some pet-friendly, beds/lights included |
| Group Camps | 3 | For organized groups, tent camping |
| Hiker/Biker | 1 area | Walk-in/ride-in sites, affordable flat rate |
Facilities include flush toilets, hot showers, an RV dump station, and firewood for sale. Five campsites and 24 yurts are ADA accessible. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance.
Beach and Activities
Pacific Ocean Beach
Miles of broad, sandy beach stretch in both directions from the park. The beach is open for walking, jogging, beachcombing, kite flying, and (for the brave) wading. Swimming is not recommended due to cold water (50-55°F year-round), powerful currents, and sneaker waves.
Hiking and Biking
The paved Jetty Trail is the park’s signature path — perfect for jogging, biking, and walking to the south jetty of Yaquina Bay. Several other trails wind through the dunes and coastal forest. The interpretive boardwalk offers accessible panoramic views of lighthouses, jetties, and the Yaquina Bay Bridge.
Horseback Riding
An equestrian trail provides beach access for horseback riding — one of the most spectacular ways to experience the Oregon Coast. Several local outfitters offer guided beach rides.
Wildlife and Whale Watching
Gray whales migrate past the Oregon Coast in December-January (southbound) and March-May (northbound). The south jetty area offers excellent viewing. Harbor seals, sea lions, and shorebirds are common year-round.
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Coast Aquarium | 2 min | World-class aquarium, sea otters, shark tunnel |
| Hatfield Marine Science Center | 2 min | Free marine research exhibits, tide pool touch tanks |
| Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area | 10 min | 1873 lighthouse, tide pools, seabird colonies |
| Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site | 5 min | Yaquina Bay Lighthouse (1871), stunning views |
| Newport Historic Bayfront | 5 min | Fresh seafood, galleries, sea lion docks |
| Beaver Creek Natural Area | 7 mi south | 5 miles of trails through marsh and old-growth forest |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at South Beach State Park?
While there’s no restriction on entering the water, swimming is not recommended at South Beach. The Pacific Ocean here is cold (50-55°F year-round), with powerful currents, undertow, and unpredictable sneaker waves. There are no lifeguards. The beach is excellent for walking, beachcombing, and kite flying.
Are the yurts heated at South Beach?
Yes, all 27 yurts at South Beach State Park are heated and equipped with lights, a lockable door, and bunk beds or futons. Some yurts are pet-friendly. Yurts are an excellent option for coastal camping comfort year-round, especially during the dramatic winter storm season.
How far is South Beach from the Oregon Coast Aquarium?
The Oregon Coast Aquarium is less than 2 minutes by car from South Beach State Park. It’s also accessible by a short bike ride along the road. This makes South Beach an ideal camping basecamp for families visiting the aquarium.
When should I make campsite reservations?
Reservations open 6 months in advance and summer weekends fill quickly, especially yurts. For July-August visits, book as soon as reservations open. Shoulder season (May-June, September-October) offers better availability with fewer crowds and often better weather than summer.
Can I bring my horse to South Beach?
Yes, South Beach State Park has an equestrian trail that provides beach access for horseback riding. If you don’t have your own horse, several local outfitters near Newport offer guided beach horseback rides.
Explore More Oregon State Parks
South Beach State Park 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.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site is a short drive away, and Agate Beach State Recreation Site is a short drive away.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at South Beach State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet required in developed park areas
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are allowed on most ocean beaches under direct control; western snowy plover nesting areas restrict pets March 15 - Sept. 15; leash required on the beach at some parks (e.g. Cape Lookout)
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Designated pet-friendly yurts and cabins at many parks (South Beach has 14 pet-friendly yurts, Tugman 8); maximum two dogs and/or cats; $10 per night pet fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $10 per night for pet-friendly yurts/cabins; no pet fee for day use or campsites
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at Dabney SRA, the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls, and Shore Acres; off-leash areas at Stub Stewart, Willamette Mission, Elijah Bristow, Cottonwood Canyon and LaPine
Are dogs allowed at South Beach State Park?
Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via stateparks.oregon.gov. More: Oregon state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
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