Siltcoos Sand Camping

The Siltcoos sand camping area is located about seven miles south of Florence, within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This unique area is an off-road enthusiast's dream: several designated off-road vehicle routes crisscross the dunes and forests, and there is also a large open riding area to the north of Siltcoos Beach Road. Visitors also enjoy beachcombing, hiking and wildlife viewing. These sites are only accessible to 4X4 vehicles on soft sand, so plan accordingly. Off-road vehicle riding is the primary attraction, with miles of designated trail and a large open riding zone. Elsewhere, Stagecoach Hiking Trailhead provides access to several non-motorized trails, including the accessible Lagoon Trail and the longer Waxmyrtle Trail, which meanders through coastal shore pine forests and follows the Siltcoos River to the beach. Visitors also enjoy playing in the surf and birding at the beach, where a variety of shorebirds are often spotted. Seasonal whale-watching is also a popular activity. There are 16 sand campsites in the Siltcoos area, available year-round and reachable only by 4X4 vehicle. Standard sites accommodate up to 20 people and five vehicles; the group site accommodates up to 40 people and 10 vehicles. Within each campsite, all vehicles and tents must be positioned within 150 feet of the campsite marker post. This camping area is primitive and provides no water, restrooms or campfire rings, so visitors must bring their own water, portable toilets and fire pans. Campsites are located directly on the sand. The dunefield is known for its wind-sculpted sand dunes towering hundreds of feet above sea level, and throughout the Siltcoos area open sand dunes are interspersed with coastal forest. The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area features the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America. Snowy plovers, a threatened species of small coastal bird, have a designated nesting habitat on Siltcoos Beach, and seasonal closures apply. Additional nearby hiking opportunities include the Siltcoos Lake Trail, Taylor Dunes Trail and Tahkenitch Creek Trail. For a change of scenery, off-road vehicle enthusiasts can check out the riding areas at South Jetty, and for boating and fishing there is Siltcoos Lake, Carter Lake or Sutton Lake.