Photo courtesy of Em Wooden
The aptly named Beachside State Recreation Site Campground is situated just steps from the sand. The land has been open to the public since 1944, although at that time it was called Big Creek State Park. More than a decade later the public convinced the Highway Commission that there were too many locations called “Big Creek,” and the name was changed.
The campground features dozens of campsites (less than half of them have electric and water hookups), and two yurts. There is a day use parking area with bathrooms at the northern end of the campground. If you head southward you will quickly come upon several campsites and a fork in the road with a parking area to the left. Firewood is available for purchase next to the parking area. If you continue heading south, you will find that the road (lined with campsites) snakes around in a loop before you hit another fork that leads you either to the last of the campsites or back toward the day use area. There are restrooms scattered throughout, and they have both hot showers and flush toilets.
The campground sits between Waldport and Yachats, so there is plenty to do. You can spend one day exploring Yachats State Park and the Yachats Ocean Road State Natural Site and the next visiting the Governor Patterson Memorial State Recreation Site and Alsea Bay Marina/Robinson Park. If you are willing to drive a bit further, you will have access to tours, visitor centers, and lighthouses. Of course, you can stay put and hang out on the beach next to the campground. Wade in the ocean, sunbathe, try your hand at fishing, or scan the horizon for whales…the options are endless. Snag a spot on the sand in the evening and you will be treated to a stunning Oregon Coast sunset.
Note: Beachside State Recreation Site Campground is typically open from mid-March through the end of October. Call 800.452.5687 for seasonal date details.