Hiker's Camp

For dedicated Oregon hikers and those seeking a truly immersive backcountry experience along our magnificent coastline, Hiker's Camp on Tillamook Head offers a unique and unforgettable overnight stop. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; it's a reward for those willing to trek through the stunning, forested landscape of Ecola State Park. Nestled between the vibrant towns of Seaside and Cannon Beach, Hiker's Camp provides a primitive yet essential haven for adventurers traversing the iconic Oregon Coast Trail. If you're ready to embrace the elements, disconnect from the everyday, and witness breathtaking coastal panoramas, this challenging but rewarding destination is a must-add to your Oregon outdoor itinerary.

Hiker's Camp is a distinctly primitive camping area located within Ecola State Park, specifically on Tillamook Head, a prominent headland that separates Seaside and Cannon Beach. Its primary purpose is to serve as an overnight stop for individuals hiking the strenuous Oregon Coast Trail or the historic Clatsop Loop Trail, which follows a portion of the route taken by Captain William Clark in 1806. This is not a "park-and-camp" facility; access is strictly by foot, requiring a significant uphill hike from either the Seaside trailhead or Indian Beach (near Cannon Beach).

Visitors appreciate the camp for its raw natural beauty and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching it. While basic, the facilities are designed to support backpackers, offering Adirondack-style shelters, a covered picnic area, and a vault toilet. The solitude is often a major draw, providing a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle. However, it's essential to note the primitive nature: water is typically not available on-site, requiring hikers to carry their own or filter from natural sources (if available and safe). Reviews often highlight the beauty of the surrounding Sitka spruce forest and the potential for incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and the distant Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, though coastal weather can often bring clouds and fog. For those who embrace the challenge and the call of the wild, Hiker's Camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast firsthand, a true backpacker's oasis.

Hiker's Camp is strategically located on Tillamook Head, which lies between Seaside and Cannon Beach, Oregon. The physical address, "Cannon Beach Trail, Seaside, OR 97138, USA," points to the general area of access, but it's crucial for Oregon locals to understand that this camp is strictly hike-in only. There is no vehicle access or overnight parking at the trailheads leading to Hiker's Camp.

Access points include:

• From Seaside: The northern trailhead of the Tillamook Head Trail is located in south Seaside. This route involves a significant uphill climb to reach the camp.

• From Indian Beach (Ecola State Park): On the southern side of Tillamook Head, near Cannon Beach, lies Indian Beach. A trail from Indian Beach, part of the Clatsop Loop Trail and Oregon Coast Trail, also leads up to Hiker's Camp. This is often described as a slightly shorter but still challenging ascent.

Both approaches offer stunning views and traverse lush coastal rainforests. Hikers should be prepared for elevation gains and potentially muddy conditions, especially during the wetter seasons. The camp is an integral part of the Oregon Coast Trail, which stretches along 382 miles of the state's coastline, making Hiker's Camp a key overnight stop for those attempting longer sections of this iconic trail. Its remote, hike-in only nature ensures that those who reach it are rewarded with a unique sense of accomplishment and a truly tranquil wilderness experience away from the easily accessible tourist hubs.

Hiker's Camp on Tillamook Head provides very basic, primitive services, catering specifically to hikers and backpackers who are prepared for self-sufficiency. These services are designed to offer fundamental shelter and sanitation rather than comfort or extensive amenities:

• Adirondack-Style Shelters: The camp features three rustic, three-sided Adirondack-style shelters. Each shelter is equipped with bunk bed-style wooden platforms, designed to sleep four people. These provide protection from the elements, though campers are advised to bring a tent as a backup in case the shelters are full or if there are leaks.

• Covered Picnic Shelter: A central covered picnic area is available, providing a communal space for hikers to rest, cook, and socialize, offering a respite from the weather.

• Communal Fire Ring: A large communal fire ring is a focal point of the camp, allowing for shared warmth and cooking opportunities, assuming no fire bans are in place.

• Vault Toilet: A vault toilet is provided and generally maintained. Reviews indicate it is stocked with toilet paper and kept reasonably clean, though it may have an unpleasant smell due to its nature.

• No Potable Water: Crucially, there is NO potable water available at Hiker's Camp. Hikers MUST carry in all their water or be prepared to filter and treat water from natural sources (like a typically flowing stream nearby, though its reliability can vary).

• Tent Camping Space: If the shelters are full, there are "plenty of places to setup a tent" in the surrounding area, allowing for additional primitive camping.

It is vital for all visitors to adhere to Leave No Trace principles, especially in this sensitive environment, packing out all trash and waste.

Hiker's Camp on Tillamook Head, while primitive, boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a truly special destination for the adventurous Oregonian:

• Exclusive Hike-In Access: The fact that it's only accessible by a significant hike immediately filters for a specific type of visitor, contributing to a quieter, more dedicated outdoor community experience. This also ensures a unique sense of accomplishment upon arrival.

• Rustic Adirondack Shelters: The three-sided shelters offer a unique, communal, and somewhat iconic backcountry camping experience, providing basic protection from the coastal weather. They evoke a sense of history, especially given the area's Lewis and Clark connection.

• Stunning Scenic Views: A short walk from the camp leads to a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Tillamook Rock Lighthouse ("Terrible Tilly") emerging from the waves. On clear days, these views are truly breathtaking and photo-worthy.

• Historical Significance: The trail leading to Hiker's Camp is part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and the Clatsop Loop Trail, allowing hikers to literally follow in the footsteps of the Corps of Discovery. Nearby old military bunkers (from WWII) also add a layer of historical intrigue.

• Oregon Coast Trail (OCT) Integration: As a designated overnight stop on the OCT, Hiker's Camp is a crucial resource for thru-hikers and section hikers exploring the entire Oregon coastline, providing a much-needed rest stop on a challenging segment.

• True Disconnect: The remote location and lack of amenities like electricity and cell service facilitate a complete digital detox, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings and the sounds of the forest and ocean.

• Wildlife Viewing Potential: The surrounding Ecola State Park is home to diverse wildlife, including Roosevelt elk and various bird species, offering opportunities for nature observation.

• Challenging but Rewarding Hike: The uphill climb to the camp, whether from Seaside or Indian Beach, is described as challenging but "not that bad," making the reward of the camp and its views even more satisfying.

For those planning their backpacking trip to Hiker's Camp on Tillamook Head, here is the essential contact information and important considerations:

Address: Cannon Beach Trail, Seaside, OR 97138, USA. (It's crucial to remember this is a hike-in only location within Ecola State Park, which is generally located between Seaside and Cannon Beach.)

Phone: While Hiker's Camp itself does not have a direct phone line due to its primitive nature, inquiries should be directed to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, specifically for Ecola State Park or the broader Oregon Coast Trail:

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department - Nehalem Bay State Park (contact for Tillamook Head Trail information): (503) 368-5943 (Mike Stein, Parks Manager is sometimes listed for Tillamook Head Trail inquiries).

Ecola State Park general information: It is advisable to look up the official Oregon State Parks website for Ecola State Park as they provide up-to-date information on trail conditions, parking rules (no overnight parking allowed at trailheads), potential closures, and any fire restrictions.

Reservations: Hiker's Camp is typically operated on a first-come, first-served basis for its shelters and tent spots. It is not generally reservable through typical state park systems, as it's designed as a fundamental overnight stop for hikers. Therefore, arriving prepared with a backup tent is always recommended, especially during peak hiking seasons.

Water: Again, please remember there is no potable water at the camp. Plan to carry enough water for your entire stay, or bring a reliable water filter/purifier for natural sources if available.

This contact information will lead you to the managing authority for the area, which can provide the most current and accurate details for your trip.

Hiker's Camp on Tillamook Head is an exceptionally suitable destination for Oregon locals, particularly those who embody the adventurous spirit of the Pacific Northwest. For many Oregonians, the call of the wild and the desire to truly disconnect are strong, and this camp delivers precisely that. Its hike-in only access ensures that it remains a serene sanctuary, free from the crowds and noise of drive-up campgrounds. This provides a genuine backcountry experience just a stone's throw from the iconic Oregon Coast towns, allowing locals to tap into the rugged beauty of their own backyard without needing to travel far.

The primitive nature of the camp, with its basic shelters and vault toilet, encourages self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the natural environment—values deeply ingrained in Oregon's outdoor culture. It's a place where you can truly leave behind the stresses of daily life, immerse yourself in the sounds of the forest and the ocean, and experience the raw beauty of Tillamook Head. For those who are passionate about hiking the Oregon Coast Trail, Hiker's Camp is an essential and rewarding stop, offering respite and a sense of camaraderie with fellow trekkers. The stunning views of the Pacific and Tillamook Rock Lighthouse are a fitting reward for the effort expended, creating memorable moments that encapsulate the unique charm of the Oregon Coast. It's not just a place to sleep; it's an integral part of the adventure, perfectly aligning with the local desire for authentic, challenging, and profoundly beautiful outdoor experiences that only Oregon can offer.

Hiker's Camp

Cannon Beach Trail, Seaside, OR 97138, USA