Morrison Eddy Campgrounds

For Oregonians, the call of the wild, especially the verdant embrace of our coastal forests and the serene flow of our rivers, is an irresistible draw. Tucked away within the majestic Tillamook State Forest, near the charming coastal town of Seaside, lies Morrison Eddy Campground – a truly special place that has drawn devoted campers for decades. This campground offers a unique blend of seclusion and natural beauty, making it a cherished spot for those who seek to genuinely disconnect and immerse themselves in the Pacific Northwest outdoors.

As residents of Oregon, we appreciate places that offer an authentic outdoor experience, and Morrison Eddy Campground delivers just that. With its quiet, secluded campsites and direct access to the Nehalem River, it's a haven for activities like fishing, crawfish trapping, kayaking, and swimming. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Morrison Eddy Campground, detailing its specific location, the services it provides, its unique features and highlights, and why it remains a perfect choice for locals seeking a peaceful and engaging escape in the heart of Oregon's beloved Tillamook State Forest.

Morrison Eddy Campground is a lovely, rustic campground situated within the Tillamook State Forest, known for its dense forests and proximity to the Nehalem River. It offers a more secluded camping experience compared to many drive-up sites, as it is primarily a walk-in tent campground. This characteristic contributes significantly to its peaceful atmosphere, allowing campers to truly enjoy the sounds of nature and the gentle flow of the river.

Visitors who have been coming here for "over 20 years off and on" speak volumes about its enduring appeal. It's renowned for its excellent opportunities for various water-based activities, from fishing and crawfish trapping to kayaking and swimming. While its walk-in nature means you'll need to transport your gear a short distance, the reward is a quiet, designated campsite with a fire pit and picnic bench, often well-screened by the surrounding forest. Morrison Eddy Campground embodies the essence of a serene Oregon outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to reconnect with the environment and enjoy simple, wholesome recreation.

Morrison Eddy Campground is located on Foss Rd, Seaside, OR 97138, USA, deep within the Tillamook State Forest. While its address links it to Seaside, it is situated closer to the town of Nehalem and the Nehalem River, about 19 miles from Seaside and approximately an hour and a half drive from Portland. This location places it in a prime position to explore the scenic beauty of Oregon's Coast Range and its diverse ecosystems.

Access to Morrison Eddy is primarily by vehicle to a parking area, followed by a walk to the campsites. This is a "walk-in" campground, meaning you'll park your car and then hike your belongings in by foot for approximately a quarter mile to your campsite. This walk-in aspect is a key feature that enhances its secluded feel, as it filters out larger RVs and casual drive-up campers, ensuring a quieter experience. While it requires a bit of effort to transport gear (a four-wheel off-road cart is recommended by experienced campers), the peacefulness and privacy of the sites make it worthwhile. Its location within the Tillamook State Forest also means good access to a network of forest roads and trails for further exploration, though specific trails directly from the campground may be limited. Always check current conditions and road accessibility, especially during the wetter months.

• Walk-In Tent Sites: Morrison Eddy Campground primarily offers walk-in tent sites, designed for a more secluded and traditional camping experience. There are approximately 6 designated walk-in tent sites.
• Designated Fire Pits: Each camp spot is equipped with a designated fire pit, perfect for campfires (when permitted by fire regulations) and outdoor cooking.
• Picnic Benches: Every campsite also includes a picnic bench, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.
• Outhouse (Vault Toilet): The campground is equipped with an outhouse (vault toilet) for restroom facilities. Reviews indicate it is generally kept up and clean.
• Garbage Containers: Garbage containers are available, encouraging campers to properly dispose of their waste and help keep the campground clean.
• No Potable Water: It is generally understood that primitive campgrounds like Morrison Eddy do not offer potable drinking water. Campers should bring all necessary drinking water or be prepared to filter/purify water from the river.
• No Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups, reinforcing its rustic and primitive nature.
• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not usually accepted. This necessitates early arrival, especially during peak season.

• Secluded and Quiet Campsites: The walk-in access ensures very quiet and secluded camp spots, allowing for a truly peaceful and private camping experience. Visitors often praise the "marvelous tucked-away vibe with greatly reduced traffic considerations."
• Excellent River Access: The campground offers fantastic access to the Nehalem River, making it a prime location for a variety of water activities.
• Fishing Opportunities: Known as a "lovely spot for fishing," the Nehalem River provides excellent chances to catch various fish species.
• Crawfish Trapping: A unique highlight mentioned by long-time visitors is the abundance of "crawdads to catch," making crawfish trapping a popular and fun activity.
• Kayaking, Swimming, and Floaties: The river is ideal for non-motorized boating like kayaking and canoeing, and offers great spots for swimming and floating, especially popular with families.
• Natural Surroundings: Located within the dense forests of the Tillamook State Forest, the campground is surrounded by tall trees and lush greenery, providing a beautiful natural backdrop.
• Wildlife Watching: The quiet river setting provides opportunities for watching local wildlife, including various bird species and other forest creatures.
• Resilience and History: The long-standing loyalty of campers (20+ years) speaks to the special charm and enduring memories created at this rustic site, making it feel like a treasured local secret.

Address: Foss Rd, Seaside, OR 97138, USA (Located within the Tillamook State Forest near Nehalem)

While Morrison Eddy Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not have a direct dedicated phone line for individual campsite reservations, inquiries about the Tillamook State Forest and its campgrounds can be directed to the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF). The ODF manages the Tillamook State Forest recreation areas:

Tillamook District Office (Oregon Department of Forestry): (503) 842-2545

Email: forestryinformation@oregon.gov

It is always recommended to check the official Oregon Department of Forestry website or contact the Tillamook District Office for the most current information regarding operating seasons, fire restrictions, road conditions, and any potential advisories before planning your visit.

For Oregonians, Morrison Eddy Campground represents a quintessential Pacific Northwest outdoor experience, perfectly suited for those seeking a tranquil and authentic connection with nature. Its secluded, walk-in design, nestled deep within the Tillamook State Forest on the banks of the Nehalem River, offers a peaceful respite that is increasingly rare to find. As locals, we value these less-developed gems that encourage genuine immersion in our state's stunning natural landscapes.

The consistent praise from long-time visitors highlights the campground's enduring appeal for activities like fishing, crawfish trapping, kayaking, and swimming. These are the kinds of wholesome, family-friendly outdoor pursuits that define the Oregonian lifestyle. The designated fire pits and picnic benches, combined with a relatively clean outhouse and garbage disposal, ensure a comfortable, albeit rustic, experience that many locals prefer over more crowded, amenity-rich parks. The ability to "hike your belongings in by foot" adds a subtle layer of adventure, rewarding effort with increased solitude and a stronger sense of being truly away from it all.

While the unfortunate incidents of vehicle vandalism mentioned in reviews are a serious concern and highlight the need for vigilance and caution, this does not diminish the inherent beauty and recreational value of the campground itself. For those prepared to take precautions to protect their belongings, the payoff is a truly rewarding experience. Morrison Eddy Campground offers Oregonians the chance to revisit beloved childhood memories or create new ones, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the forest and the gentle flow of the river, making it a truly cherished local spot for escaping the everyday and embracing the wild heart of our state.

Morrison Eddy Campgrounds

Foss Rd, Seaside, OR 97138, USA