South Jetty Sand Camping Access

For Oregonians seeking a truly distinctive outdoor adventure, South Jetty Sand Camping Access offers an experience unlike any other along the stunning Oregon Coast. This unique camping area, located within the expansive Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, provides direct access to miles of pristine sand dunes and the vast Pacific Ocean. It's not your typical forested campground; instead, it's an opportunity to pitch your tent or park your RV directly on the sand, immersing yourself in a landscape sculpted by wind and waves. Managed by the Siuslaw National Forest, South Jetty offers a raw, unfiltered connection to Oregon's iconic coastal environment, making it a dream destination for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, beachcombers, and anyone looking for a wild escape.

The allure of South Jetty lies in its blend of thrilling recreation and serene natural beauty. Imagine waking up to the rhythmic sound of ocean waves, with towering sand dunes as your backyard playground. This is a place where you can spend your days exploring endless sandy expanses, engaging in exhilarating dune riding, or simply unwinding by a campfire under a sky brimming with stars. For locals, it represents a readily accessible slice of Oregon's unique wilderness, a place where adventure is just steps from your campsite, and the beauty of the coast is omnipresent. It's a reminder that some of the most memorable experiences are found off the beaten path, requiring a sense of adventure and a love for the wild.

South Jetty Sand Camping Access is conveniently located on the central Oregon Coast, near the charming town of Reedsport and just south of Florence. The official address provided is 855 US-101, Reedsport, OR 97467, USA, which also serves as the address for the Oregon Dunes Visitor Center. However, access to the actual sand campsites requires a bit more navigation and a specific type of vehicle.

To reach the camping areas, visitors typically travel south on Highway 101 from Florence for about 1 mile to South Jetty Road. You then turn right (west) onto South Jetty Road and proceed for about 1.5 miles to the Goosepasture Staging Area, which is a key access point for the sand camping sites. It's crucial to understand that these campsites are situated directly on soft sand and require a 4x4 vehicle for access. Standard cars, even AWD vehicles, may get stuck, so preparing with a shovel and recovery boards is highly recommended.

For Oregon locals, the drive from major cities is manageable. From Portland, the journey typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, a scenic route that transitions from lush valleys to the dramatic coastline. From Eugene, the drive is even shorter, usually about 1.5 to 2 hours. The campground's location offers excellent accessibility to the wider Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, placing you squarely in the middle of a vast playground for OHV riding, hiking, and exploring the unique dune formations. Its proximity to towns like Florence and Reedsport means that while you're experiencing a primitive camping adventure, essential services and supplies are never too far away.

Services Offered

• Primitive Sand Campsites: Sites are located directly on the sand, offering a raw, immersive camping experience.
• Designated Individual and Group Sites: The campground features standard campsites designed for up to 5 vehicles and 20 people, as well as group campsites accommodating up to 10 vehicles and 40 people.
• Reservation System: All sand campsites require a digital reservation and payment through Recreation.gov and are available year-round.
• Permit Requirements: A State of Oregon OHV permit is required for any off-road vehicle riding within the designated areas.
• "Pack It In, Pack It Out" Policy: This is a primitive area, meaning campers must bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water, portable toilets, fire pans, and garbage bags, and pack out all trash.
• OHV Staging Access: Direct access from specific staging areas onto the sand dunes for off-highway vehicle recreation.

Features / Highlights

• Direct Access to Oregon Dunes: Unparalleled opportunity to camp right on the expansive Oregon Dunes, providing immediate access for sandboarding, hiking, and OHV riding.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic, wind-sculpted sand dunes, perfect for photography and scenic walks.
• Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Paradise: A premier destination for ATV, UTV, and dirt bike enthusiasts, with designated riding areas and open riding zones.
• Beach Access: Miles of pristine beach are accessible for non-motorized activities such as walking, beachcombing, and birdwatching (note: motorized vehicles are not allowed on the beach in this section).
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe diverse coastal wildlife, including a variety of seabirds and, during certain seasons, even whales.
• Unique Camping Experience: Offers a more rugged, dispersed camping feel compared to traditional campgrounds, appealing to those who prefer self-sufficient outdoor adventures.
• Proximity to Siuslaw River Bridge: Enjoy picturesque views of the iconic Siuslaw River Bridge and the surrounding park scenery across the river.

Contact Information

Address: 855 US-101, Reedsport, OR 97467, USA (Oregon Dunes Visitor Center)

Phone: (541) 271-6000

Mobile Phone: +1 541-271-6000

For Oregon locals, South Jetty Sand Camping Access offers a truly iconic and accessible coastal experience that perfectly encapsulates the adventurous spirit of our state. Many Oregonians have a deep appreciation for the unique landscapes that define our home, and the Oregon Dunes are undoubtedly one of the most remarkable. This campground provides an unparalleled opportunity to fully immerse yourself in this dynamic environment, offering a direct, personal connection to the vast sandy expanses and the rhythmic sounds of the Pacific.

Whether you’re an avid OHV rider looking for endless dunes to explore or simply a nature lover who wants to walk along the beach and watch the dogs play, as one local review mentioned, South Jetty caters to a variety of outdoor passions. The ability to drive your 4x4 directly to your campsite, set up camp amidst the dunes, and then immediately embark on an adventure, is a convenience that speaks volumes to the active lifestyle many Oregonians enjoy. While the primitive nature of the sites means you need to be self-sufficient – bringing your own water, portable toilets, and practicing "pack it in, pack it out" – this very aspect appeals to those who value a raw, impactful wilderness experience over creature comforts. It reinforces the Leave No Trace principles that are so vital to preserving Oregon's natural treasures.

The stunning views of the Siuslaw River Bridge and the expansive ocean, combined with the incredibly dark skies perfect for stargazing, create an atmosphere of serene beauty that is hard to find elsewhere. It’s a chance to escape the everyday, breathe the fresh coastal air, and rediscover the wild heart of Oregon, all within a reasonable drive for most residents. South Jetty Sand Camping Access isn't just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to experience the wild, untamed magic of the Oregon Coast firsthand, making it an ideal choice for any local looking for an unforgettable adventure.

South Jetty Sand Camping Access

855 US-101, Reedsport, OR 97467, USA