Imagine waking up to the rhythm of crashing waves, stepping out of your tent to a breathtaking ocean view, and spending your days exploring hidden coves and dramatic sea stacks. Oregon’s rugged coastline beckons with a symphony of sights and sounds, promising an unforgettable adventure. This 5 day itinerary unlocks the magic of the Southern Oregon Coast, taking you on a roadtrip filled with natural wonders, charming towns, and state park campgrounds.
All the campsites we’ve chosen are conveniently located within an hour’s drive of each other. This means less backtracking and more time soaking up the coastal bliss! Each day is an adventure exploring iconic sights like Cape Perpetua, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, and Bandon Beach.
This isn’t just a camping trip – it’s a gateway to relaxation and exploration along the breathtaking southern Oregon coast. Ditch the stress of crowded, poorly maintained campsites. Oregon’s pristine state park campgrounds boast clean facilities, stunning locations, and a user-friendly online reservation system, making your experience smooth sailing.
So, pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the Southern Coast of Oregon!
*This itinerary is part of a larger California-Oregon road trip adventure.*
Travel Southern Oregon Coast
Day 1: Unveiling the Magic of Harris Beach State Park
Our journey begins at Harris Beach State Park. This haven boasts seven miles of pristine coastline, where Arch Rock, a massive sea stack jutting out from the shore, steals the show. But Harris Beach offers more than just stunning scenery.
Spacious Oceanfront Bliss: Harris Beach Campground pampers you with spacious, well-maintained sites. Fire rings and picnic tables set the stage for cozy evenings under the stars, while many sites offer partial ocean views for an unforgettable morning coffee. Reservations are a breeze through the Oregon State Parks website. Pro Tip: Snag your spot well in advance, especially during peak season!
Night 1: Camping at Harris Beach State Park
After setting up camp, explore the wonders right at your doorstep. Stroll along the beach, marveling at sea stacks. But the magic doesn’t stop there! Harris Beach is also designated as a marine garden, teeming with life at low tide. Explore tide pools filled with colorful anemones, starfish, and hermit crabs clinging to the rocks. Remember to check tide tables for the best experience.
If you’re coming North from California, look for Fisherman’s Gulf right next to the state border. This protected cove is a haven for wildlife, and with a little patience, you can spot harbor seals lounging on the rocks, sea lions barking in the distance, or even river otters gliding through the water. Keep your camera handy – a wildlife encounter is a guaranteed highlight of your trip!
Day 2: Adventures Along the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
Buckle up for a scenic drive north on Highway 101! Today, we delve into the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, a photographer’s paradise overflowing with natural wonders. Prepare to be awestruck by dramatic rock formations like Natural Bridges and Arch Rock, sculpted by millennia of wind and waves. These iconic sea stacks stand as testaments to the relentless power of nature.
**Hike with a View:**Lace up your boots and embark on short hikes to viewpoints overlooking these marvels. Natural Bridges offers a unique perspective, but be advised – reaching the social media-famous viewpoints requires a steeper and more challenging hike.
Sisters Rock State Park: Next, venture to Sisters Rock State Park for breathtaking vistas and a chance to explore Frankport Sea Cave. Hold on tight – it can get quite windy here! The main trail leads you through a diverse landscape before reaching an old quarry road. Follow this path for panoramic views of the coastline, including Lookout Rock, Humbug Mountain, and Cape Blanco. Feeling adventurous? Hike down to Frankfurt Sea Cave, a collapsed cavern offering a glimpse into the ocean’s power. Scramble around the base of the rocks for unique perspectives of the cave’s three mouths, some only visible at high tide.
*NOTE: there are multiple Arch Rocks and Haystack Rocks along the Oregon Coast, so don’t get confused by the recurring names! *
Night 2: Camping at Humbug Mountain State Park
Nestled amongst towering Sitka spruce trees, this park offers a tranquil escape with well-equipped campsites. Breathe in the fresh coastal air and embrace the serenity of the forest, all conveniently located near the day’s exciting adventures.
Day 3: Bandon’s Charm & Wildlife
Our adventure continues north! First stop: the coastal town of Port Orford. Refuel with a delicious bite at The Crazy Norwegian’s Fish and Chips – a local favorite you won’t want to miss!
Next up, we head to Cape Blanco for a visit to its historic lighthouse, a sentinel guarding the rugged coastline. While you’re there, take a detour to the secluded Flora Lake, nestled right next to the ocean. From here, a short walk leads you to the dramatic Blacklock Cliffs, offering stunning coastal vistas.
The charming town of Bandon beckons with its quirky shops, art galleries, and a warm local vibe. But the true magic unfolds on Bandon Beach. Here, low tide isn’t just a receding waterline – it’s a portal to a hidden world. Towering rock formations, sculpted by relentless waves over millennia, rise majestically from the exposed sand. Imagine wandering among these giants, their surfaces textured and weathered, whispering stories of the ocean’s immense power. Breathe in the salty air as waves crash against the shore, revealing hidden sea caves and tide pools teeming with life.
Further up the coast, the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge offers stunning views of Bandon Beach and a chance to spot a variety of seabirds. In the afternoon, we reach Coquille Point, where the historic Coquille River Lighthouse stands tall, guiding ships through treacherous waters. Ascend to the top for breathtaking panoramic vistas that will leave you speechless!
Night 3: Camping at Bullards Beach State Park
Our home for the night is Bullards Beach State Park, conveniently located for a quick stop before reaching our final campsite. This park boasts stunning oceanfront views and easy beach access, perfect for a refreshing morning stroll or a relaxing afternoon soaking up the sun. This time we stayed at one of the camping yourts and loved it! Its spacious with a bunkbed, sofa, dining table and even equipped with a heater and outlets! (https://stateparks.oregon.gov/).
Day 4: Shore Acres State Park & Sunset Bay Beach
We’ll start the morning by revisiting Bandon Beach at a different tide. Witnessing the dramatic transformation of the coastline, from high tide’s vast expanse to low tide’s exposed treasures, is a truly captivating experience.
Next, we’re off to explore the wonders of Cape Arago State Park. First stop: Shore Acres State Park, a botanical garden boasting a unique coastline you can explore via a scenic hike (you can park outside and hike into the park for free). This path, starting at Sunset Bay Beach and winding towards the tip of Cape Arago, offers breathtaking views.
Keep your eyes peeled at Simpson Reef Vista Point – you might spot four different species of sea lions and seals basking on the rocks! The whole hike is around 10 miles, we only did a portion of the hike and drove the rest.
Night 4: Camping at Sunset Bay State Park
This aptly named park offers a peaceful setting to unwind after a day of exploration, with easy access to the beach for a final sunset stroll or a relaxing afternoon basking in the coastal sunshine.
Day 5: ReedSports and Beyond
Today’s adventure takes us beyond the Southern Oregon Coast into a realm of diverse landscapes!
First up, we journey to the awe-inspiring Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Here, vast stretches of sand dunes hug the coastline, creating a surreal landscape unlike any other. Explore this wonderland on foot, or rent an ATV for an exhilarating off-road adventure. The panoramic views of towering dunes meeting the vast Pacific Ocean are truly unforgettable.
Next, we venture to Darlingtonia State Park, a haven for a unique botanical wonder – the carnivorous pitcher plant! Explore trails adorned with these fascinating flora and learn about their unusual adaptations.
On our way north, don’t miss a chance to stop at the Sea Lion Caves near Florence, Oregon. This fascinating location is America’s largest sea cave and a year-round home to Steller and California sea lions. Descend via an elevator and witness these playful marine mammals up close in their natural habitat.
As we continue north, the mighty Cape Perpetua comes into view. Hike to the summit for panoramic ocean vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Be sure to capture photos of the dramatic Thor’s Well, a chasm that puts on a mesmerizing display of raw power as the tide surges in and out. Witness the ocean’s fury firsthand as waves crash against the rugged coastline, creating a spectacle that will leave you breathless!
Our journey for the day ends in Reedsports, where we’ll spend the night at a hotel. For an unforgettable evening or early morning adventure, take a detour to the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area. Here, you might get the chance to witness Roosevelt elk grazing in their natural habitat – a truly magical experience!
Oregon vs. California Campgrounds:
Having camped along the California coast before, one thing struck us immediately about Oregon’s state park campgrounds: the quality.
Here’s a breakdown of what sets Oregon apart:
Facilities: campgrounds on the southern Oregon coast consistently boast clean, well-maintained facilities. Restrooms are fresh, the showers are FREE and have great water pressure, and fire rings and picnic tables are readily available at each site. Gone are the days of dealing with cramped sites or token powered showers, common frustrations we’ve encountered at some California campgrounds.
Location, Location, Location: Many Oregon State Park campgrounds boast stunning locations right on the beach or nestled amidst towering trees. In California, finding campgrounds with prime locations can be a challenge as they book up months in advance year round.
Overall Experience: The combination of clean facilities, spacious sites, stunning locations, and a user-friendly camping reservations elevates Oregon’s state park campgrounds to a whole new level. Camping on the Southern Oregon Coast feels more like a luxurious escape into nature.
Between mastering the art of tent assembly (still a work in progress!) and soaking up the scenery, campsite photos somehow slipped through the cracks. Guess I’ll have to go back and create some new memories (and photo ops) next time!
5 Days on the Southern Oregon Coast: Memories Made to Last
Five days exploring the Southern Oregon Coast come to a close, but the memories you’ve made will linger. Dramatic vistas of towering cliffs and hidden coves, charming towns brimming with local flavor, and captivating encounters with wildlife – this journey has etched the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest onto your soul. The endless opportunities for exploration that define the Southern Oregon Coast will undoubtedly beckon you back to rediscover its magic. So, fuel your sense of adventure, pack your bags, and start planning your next escape. It’s time to write the next chapter of your Oregon story!
Craving more travel inspiration? Check out my other travel blogs for even more epic adventures!
