Siuslaw National Forest Camping

Siuslaw National Forest, located on the Oregon Coast, offers some of the best camping in Oregon, with developed campgrounds, dispersed camping, RV camping, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you’re planning a family camping trip, a weekend getaway, or an off-road adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know about camping in Siuslaw National Forest.

Best Campgrounds in Siuslaw National Forest

Siuslaw National Forest features nearly 40 campgrounds, ranging from tent sites and RV-friendly spots to primitive camping areas. Some of the most popular campgrounds include:

• Cape Perpetua Campground – Perfect for hikers, with access to 23 miles of trails and stunning ocean views.

• Tillicum Campground – Offers oceanfront camping, ideal for beach lovers.

• Sutton Campground – Located near Sutton Lake, great for boating and fishing.

• Driftwood II Campground – A top choice for OHV riders, offering direct access to Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

Since campgrounds fill up quickly during peak season (May–October), reservations are highly recommended through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Types of Camping in Siuslaw National Forest

Developed Campgrounds

• Equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, drinking water, and toilets

• No electric hookups or showers available in most sites

• Reservations can be made up to six months in advance

Dispersed Camping

• Free camping available in undeveloped areas of the forest

• No amenities – campers must bring all supplies and follow Leave No Trace principles

• 14-day limit in any 60-day period

RV Camping

• Some campgrounds accommodate RVs and trailers, but there are no hookups

• Larger RV-friendly campgrounds include Sutton, Tillicum, and Alder Dune

OHV & Sand Dune Camping

• Best campsites for off-road enthusiasts are near the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

• Popular OHV-friendly campgrounds: Driftwood II, Bluebill, and Horsfall

Horse Camping

• Campgrounds like Horse Creek Campground are ideal for equestrians

• Some sites provide horse corrals and access to equestrian trails

How to Make Camping Reservations

To secure your campsite at Siuslaw National Forest, book early through:

• Recreation.gov

• Call 1-877-444-6777 for reservations

• First-come, first-served campsites are also available but fill up quickly

For dispersed camping, no reservation is required, but campers must follow all camping regulations.

Important Camping Regulations

• Camping limits: 14 days per 30-day period in developed campgrounds, 14 days per 60-day period in dispersed camping areas

• Campfire restrictions: Check current fire bans before lighting a fire

• Wildlife safety: Store food properly to avoid encounters with bears and cougars

• Trash disposal: Many areas require campers to pack out all garbage

• Permit requirements: Some areas require permits for parking or firewood collection

Best Things to Do in Siuslaw National Forest

Hiking Trails

• Cape Perpetua Scenic Area – Features 26 miles of trails with ocean views

• St. Perpetua Trail – A 2.6-mile round-trip hike leading to a scenic viewpoint

• Kentucky Falls Trail – A hidden gem with stunning waterfalls

Off-Roading & OHV Trails

• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area – One of the best OHV areas in the U.S.

• Sand Lake Recreation Area – Offers dune riding and beach access

Fishing & Boating

• Sutton Lake and Tahkenitch Lake – Great for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding

• Siuslaw River – Offers salmon and steelhead fishing

Wildlife Viewing & Photography

• Marys Peak – The highest point in the Oregon Coast Range, with panoramic views

• Devil’s Churn & Spouting Horn – Iconic coastal landmarks for nature lovers

Best Time to Go Camping at Siuslaw National Forest

The best season for camping in Siuslaw National Forest is summer (June–September) when temperatures are mild and rainfall is minimal.

• Spring (March–May) – Great for wildflowers, but expect rain

• Summer (June–September) – Warmest and most popular season

• Fall (October–November) – Fewer crowds, but wetter weather

• Winter (December–February) – Some campgrounds close; expect rain and fog

What to Bring for Your Camping Trip

Because some campgrounds are remote, it’s important to pack all essentials, including:

• Tent or RV supplies

• Warm, layered clothing (coastal weather can be unpredictable)

• Food and water (some campgrounds don’t have potable water)

• Firewood and cooking gear (if fires are allowed)

• Navigation tools (offline maps, compass, GPS – cell service is limited)

• Bear-proof food storage

Final Tips for Camping at Siuslaw National Forest

• Book your campsite early, especially during peak season

• Check for road closures and fire restrictions before heading out

• Have a backup plan in case your campground is full

• Be prepared for limited cell service – download maps before your trip

• Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment

Plan Your Siuslaw National Forest Camping Adventure Today

Camping in Siuslaw National Forest is an unforgettable outdoor experience, offering coastal beauty, rugged forests, and thrilling sand dunes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat in nature or an adventurous off-road experience, Siuslaw has something for everyone.

Book your campsite now at Recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.

This guide is designed to help you have an amazing camping trip in Siuslaw National Forest. Let me know if you need any additional details!