Sandbeach Campground

For Oregonians who thrive on the thrill of off-road adventure and the unique landscape of coastal sand dunes, Sandbeach Campground in Cloverdale offers a one-of-a-kind camping experience. Situated within the dynamic Sand Lake Recreation Area of the Siuslaw National Forest, this campground is a dedicated haven for off-road vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts. Unlike typical quiet forest campgrounds, Sandbeach embraces a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere where the roar of ATVs and the excitement of dune riding are central to the experience. This article will provide a detailed look at Sandbeach Campground, covering its unique appeal, accessible location, available services, distinct features, and why it's the perfect spot for locals looking for an action-packed Oregon getaway.

Sandbeach Campground is openly recognized as being "ideal for off-road vehicle lovers," providing year-round access to nearly 1,100 acres of coastal sand dunes. This makes it a primary destination for those whose recreational passion involves ATVs, dirt bikes, and other off-highway vehicles. The campground’s design and amenities are specifically tailored to support this activity, offering conveniences like an OHV loading ramp. While this specialized focus creates a lively and often noisy environment, as noted by some reviews, it is precisely this energy that attracts its core demographic.

It's important for prospective campers to understand the predominant culture of Sandbeach Campground. As one reviewer aptly put it, it's "ALL ATVs, ALL THE TIME." This means that if quiet solitude and peaceful nature walks are your primary camping goals, this might not be the ideal fit. However, for those who embrace the sounds of engines, the sight of dunes being conquered, and the camaraderie of fellow riders, Sandbeach Campground offers an unparalleled experience. It's a place where you can camp with your rig, unload your OHV, and be on the dunes in minutes, making it incredibly convenient for a weekend of intense riding and fun.

Beyond the adrenaline-fueled adventures on the dunes, the Sand Lake Recreation Area also provides opportunities for other coastal activities. The nearby Sand Lake Estuary, with its near-natural state, supports fishing, swimming, crabbing, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing, particularly for waterfowl. This offers a chance to diversify your outdoor pursuits if you wish to take a break from riding. For Oregonians who own ATVs or are looking to immerse themselves in the state's unique coastal dune environment, Sandbeach Campground promises an exhilarating and memorable experience.

Sandbeach Campground is conveniently located in Cloverdale, OR 97112, USA, placing it along Oregon's stunning North Coast. This prime location makes it easily accessible from major population centers in the Willamette Valley and other parts of the state. The campground is situated within the Sand Lake Recreation Area, roughly 15 miles southwest of Tillamook, nestled between the well-known Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwanda. This strategic placement offers a blend of dedicated OHV access and proximity to other popular coastal attractions.

Accessing Sandbeach Campground is relatively straightforward. From Tillamook, you can follow Highway 101 south for about 11 miles to County Road 871 (Sandlake Road). A right turn onto Sandlake Road, followed by approximately 4 miles, leads to a stop sign. Turning left to continue on Sandlake Road for another mile, then a right turn onto Galloway Road, will bring you directly to the campground at the end of the road within the Sand Lake Recreation Area. The parking aprons at the campsites are paved, accommodating both RVs and trailers, making it easy for campers to set up their base for off-road adventures. The coastal location means visitors can expect marine influences, resulting in cool summers and moderate winters, making it a year-round destination for dedicated riders.

• Campsites: Sandbeach Campground features 81 campsites, designed to accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, with paved parking aprons. Some sites may experience flooding in winter months.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have access to fresh water.
• Flush Toilets: The campground provides flush toilets, which are generally well-maintained, offering a higher level of convenience compared to more primitive campgrounds.
• Campfire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring and a grate, perfect for campfires and outdoor cooking.
• OHV Loading Ramp: A crucial amenity for its target audience, an off-road vehicle loading ramp is available for easy access to the dunes.
• Reservations: During the summer season (May-October), all campsites are by reservation only via Recreation.gov or phone. During the winter season (November-April), some sites are reservable, while others are first-come, first-served.
• Firewood: While not explicitly stated as sold on-site, firewood is often available for purchase nearby, which is common for Forest Service campgrounds.
• Trash Collection: Garbage collection services are provided to help keep the area clean.

• Premier OHV Access: The standout feature is its direct, year-round access to nearly 1,100 acres of coastal sand dunes, making it the top choice for ATV, dirt bike, and other off-road vehicle enthusiasts.
• Energetic Atmosphere: The campground is known for its lively and sometimes noisy environment, perfect for those who enjoy the excitement and camaraderie of the OHV community.
• Paved Parking Aprons: All campsites offer paved parking aprons, providing a stable and clean surface for vehicles and trailers.
• Proximity to Sand Lake Estuary: Beyond OHV riding, the nearby Sand Lake Estuary offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, crabbing, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
• Coastal Environment: Experience the unique climate and scenery of the Oregon coast, with its cool summers and moderate winters, and the distinct beauty of sand dunes meeting forest.
• Good Cell Service: Unlike many remote campgrounds, Sandbeach Campground is noted to have good cell service in certain areas, particularly on the beach, which can be convenient for connectivity.
• Accessible to Nearby Attractions: Its location allows for relatively short drives to other popular Oregon Coast destinations like Pacific City and Tillamook, offering additional activities and services.

Address: Cloverdale, OR 97112, USA

Phone for Reservations: (877) 444-6777

Mobile Phone for Reservations: +1 877-444-6777

For more specific inquiries about the campground's operation, rules, or conditions, especially regarding the OHV area, it is recommended to contact the managing authority, the Siuslaw National Forest. Specifically, the Hebo Ranger District manages this area:

Hebo Ranger District

Phone: (503) 392-5100

Online reservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

Sandbeach Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Oregon locals, particularly those who embrace the high-octane excitement of off-road vehicle riding. For many Oregonians, the extensive network of dunes along the coast represents a unique playground, and Sandbeach Campground offers direct, unparalleled access to this thrilling environment. This specialization means that the facilities and overall atmosphere are perfectly aligned with the needs and preferences of ATV and OHV enthusiasts, making it a natural fit for those who own such vehicles and seek a dedicated space for their recreation.

The year-round accessibility, combined with the convenience of amenities like paved parking aprons, drinking water, and flush toilets, enhances the camping experience for those bringing their rigs. While some may find the constant presence of ATVs noisy, this is precisely the vibrant energy that draws its loyal local following. For this community, it's not just a campground; it's a social hub where like-minded individuals share their passion for dune riding and create lasting memories with friends and family. The ability to ride directly from your campsite onto nearly 1,100 acres of open sand dunes is a convenience that few other locations can offer.

Furthermore, the campground's location on the Oregon Coast provides additional benefits beyond just OHV riding. The proximity to the Sand Lake Estuary allows for a change of pace with opportunities for fishing, crabbing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the tranquil coastal environment. This blend of high-energy adventure and access to serene natural beauty means that while riding is the main draw, there are still options for a more relaxed experience. For Oregon locals seeking an adventurous, spirited, and community-oriented camping experience centered around off-road vehicles, Sandbeach Campground is not just a choice, but the ultimate destination to satisfy their craving for coastal excitement and dune exploration.

Sandbeach Campground

Cloverdale, OR 97112, USA