South Jetty Sand Camping Access

For Oregonians with a love for the wild and an adventurous spirit, South Jetty Sand Camping Access offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly immerse yourselves in one of the state's most iconic landscapes: the Oregon Dunes. This unique camping experience, located within the vast Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and managed by the Siuslaw National Forest, is a far cry from a typical forested campground. Here, your campsite is quite literally on the sand, providing direct, unfettered access to miles of towering dunes and the majestic Pacific Ocean. It's a prime destination for those seeking the thrill of off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding, the tranquility of a deserted beach, and the raw beauty of a coastal wilderness.

South Jetty Sand Camping is designed for the self-sufficient adventurer, emphasizing a primitive camping style that encourages a deeper connection with nature. Imagine waking up to the sound of ocean waves, with the dramatic, ever-shifting sand dunes as your personal playground. Whether you're a seasoned OHV enthusiast ready to tackle the "vertical dragstrip" or a family looking for a safe, relaxed environment where kids can freely explore, this destination caters to a unique outdoor passion. It embodies the adventurous heart of Oregon, offering an escape where the only crowds you'll encounter are the vast stretches of sand and sky, making it an ideal choice for locals looking to experience something truly extraordinary close to home.

South Jetty Sand Camping Access is strategically located on the central Oregon Coast, just south of Florence and north of Reedsport. While the general address provided is Sand Dunes Rd, Florence, OR 97439, USA, accessing the actual sand campsites requires a specific approach and a 4x4 vehicle. The main access point for many of these sites is typically via the Goosepasture OHV Staging Area, found off South Jetty Road, which branches west from Highway 101.

It is crucial for visitors to understand that all campsites at South Jetty are located directly on soft sand and can only be accessed by 4x4 vehicles. Standard vehicles, even those with all-wheel drive, are likely to get stuck in the loose terrain. Bringing a shovel and recovery boards is highly recommended for any trip here. For Oregon locals, the drive is relatively straightforward. From Portland, you can expect a scenic journey of about 3 to 3.5 hours, traversing diverse landscapes before reaching the stunning coastline. From cities like Eugene, the drive is even shorter, typically 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an ideal weekend getaway.

The campground's location provides unparalleled accessibility to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, placing campers at the heart of extensive riding and hiking trails. While feeling wonderfully remote, the proximity to Florence ensures that essential amenities like grocery stores, fuel, and specialized gear shops are within a short drive. This balance of wild, off-grid camping with convenient access to town services makes South Jetty a practical and appealing choice for Oregonians seeking a unique coastal adventure without being completely isolated.

Services Offered

• Primitive Sand Campsites: Sites are located directly on the sand, offering an immersive, back-to-nature camping experience.
• Individual and Group Campsites: Standard sites accommodate up to 5 vehicles and 20 people, while larger group sites can host up to 10 vehicles and 40 people.
• Reservation System: All sand campsites require a digital reservation and payment, available year-round via Recreation.gov. Reservations may fill up quickly during peak summer season.
• "Pack It In, Pack It Out" Policy: This is a primitive area with no on-site water or restrooms; campers must bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water, portable toilets, and fire pans, and pack out all trash.
• OHV Staging Access: Direct access from designated staging areas onto the sand dunes for off-highway vehicle recreation.
• Campsite Markers: Sites are identified by numbered posts; campers must remain within 150 feet of their post.
• Fire Rings: While no permanent fire rings are provided, portable fire pans are recommended for campfires. Always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire.
• Oregon OHV Permit Required: A State of Oregon OHV permit is required for anyone operating an off-highway vehicle on public lands here.

Features / Highlights

• Direct Access to Oregon Dunes: Experience the thrill of camping directly on the vast Oregon Dunes, providing immediate access for sandboarding, hiking, and OHV riding.
• Spectacular Coastal Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic, wind-sculpted sand dunes, creating incredible opportunities for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset. The dunefield is known for its wind-sculpted sand dunes towering up to 500 feet above sea level.
• OHV Paradise: A premier destination for ATV, UTV, and dirt bike enthusiasts, offering expansive open riding zones and designated routes, including a "vertical dragstrip."
• Pristine Beach Access: Miles of open beach are accessible for non-motorized activities like walking, beachcombing, and birdwatching (motorized vehicles are generally prohibited 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 Primitive Camping: Offers a more rugged, dispersed camping feel than traditional campgrounds, appealing to those who enjoy self-sufficient outdoor adventures and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Safety and Community: Many campers praise the friendly, helpful atmosphere, where fellow enthusiasts are often willing to assist with vehicle issues, contributing to a sense of community.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Despite the rugged terrain, reviews indicate a safe environment for kids to explore and ride, allowing them to ride without constant worry.

Contact Information

Address: Sand Dunes Rd, Florence, OR 97439, USA (General area; specific access points require navigation on dune roads.)

Phone: (541) 271-6000 (Oregon Dunes Visitor Center / Siuslaw National Forest)

Mobile Phone: +1 541-271-6000

For Oregonians, South Jetty Sand Camping Access offers a truly iconic and deeply rewarding coastal experience that resonates with our state's love for the outdoors. It's a chance to fully immerse oneself in the world-renowned Oregon Dunes, a natural wonder that stands as a testament to the diverse beauty of our landscape. The opportunity to camp directly on the sand, with the Pacific Ocean just a short distance away, is a unique privilege that appeals to the adventurous spirit prevalent across Oregon. Whether you're an avid OHV rider, seeking the thrill of the dunes and their "vertical dragstrip," or simply someone who appreciates the vastness and tranquility of a wild, uncrowded beach, South Jetty delivers.

The fact that this is a 4x4-only access area, requiring self-sufficiency and a "pack it in, pack it out" mentality, speaks to a particular type of camper – one who values rugged experiences and environmental stewardship. This aligns perfectly with many Oregon locals who are accustomed to responsible recreation in our natural spaces. The community aspect, as highlighted by a local reviewer who prefers South Jetty over other areas due to its relaxed atmosphere and helpful people, underscores a welcoming environment for families and enthusiasts. Despite the driving distance for some, the unique, safe, and exciting adventure offered here makes the journey well worth it, providing a space where kids can explore and ride without constant worries. South Jetty Sand Camping Access is more than just a campground; it's a gateway to an authentic Oregon coastal dune adventure, inviting locals to rediscover the wild heart of their own backyard.

You can see more about the area in this video: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsVKCqg7W3M)

South Jetty Sand Camping Access

Sand Dunes Rd, Florence, OR 97439, USA