Waxmyrtle Campground

Hello, Oregon outdoor enthusiasts and coastal explorers! Are you looking for that perfect blend of peaceful forest camping with easy access to our state's incredible waterways and iconic sandy shores? We understand the allure of the Oregon Coast and the desire to find a camping spot that offers both tranquility and adventure. Waxmyrtle Campground, nestled near Dunes City, presents just such an opportunity. For those of us who call Oregon home, the appeal of discovering a "nice little campground" that unlocks unique experiences along the Siltcoos River and close to the Pacific Ocean is undeniable.

Oregon is a land of stunning contrasts, where lush forests meet vast expanses of sand dunes and the powerful Pacific. Camping is a cherished tradition here, a way to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty that defines our state. Waxmyrtle Campground offers a distinctive experience, set apart by its direct access to the Siltcoos River, which flows through a landscape rich with hiking trails and eventually leads to the beach. It’s a place where you can launch your kayak directly from camp, embark on a scenic hike, or simply relax in a private, quiet setting.

Based on feedback from fellow Oregonians who have experienced its charm, Waxmyrtle Campground truly delivers on its promise of a serene and enjoyable stay. While it's essential to pick your site carefully, as some parking areas can be sloped, the overall consensus points to excellent tent pads, private spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into all the details that make Waxmyrtle Campground a must-consider for your next coastal Oregon adventure, covering its precise location, the services it offers, its standout features, and how to get in touch to plan your visit. Get ready to discover a peaceful haven amidst the Oregon Dunes that you'll be eager to return to!

Waxmyrtle Campground is located on the Oregon Coast Hwy (US-101), near Dunes City, OR 97439, USA. This places it within the heart of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, a vast expanse of shifting sands, coastal forests, and freshwater lakes and rivers. Its location directly off US-101 makes it easily accessible for Oregon residents traveling along the coast, whether from the north or south. Dunes City is a small community situated between Florence and Reedsport, providing a convenient stopping point for travelers exploring the central Oregon Coast.

A key aspect of Waxmyrtle Campground's location is its direct proximity and "kayaking access to the Siltcoos River." The Siltcoos River is a beautiful, slow-moving waterway that meanders through coastal forest and eventually flows into the Pacific Ocean. This river access opens up opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding directly from the campground, allowing for peaceful paddles through unique ecosystems.

Furthermore, the campground offers "good hiking trails along the river and out to the beach." This means campers have immediate access to a network of trails that lead through scenic woodlands and ultimately emerge onto the vast expanse of the Oregon Coast beach. While the beach is not directly adjacent to the campground and requires "almost 3/4 of a mile walk on dry sand" after the forested trail section, the journey itself is described as "beautiful," making it part of the adventure. This balance of forest, river, and beach access is a significant draw.

Accessibility by road is straightforward, being right off a major highway. However, campers should be mindful of specific site conditions; some parking areas might be "sloped," a detail particularly relevant for RVs. The overall quiet nature of the campground, despite its highway proximity, suggests it's set back enough to minimize road noise, offering a peaceful retreat.

Waxmyrtle Campground provides essential services and amenities designed to support a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, particularly appealing to those seeking a connection with nature rather than extensive modern conveniences. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Campsites: The campground offers a variety of campsites suitable for both tents and smaller RVs (though RVers should note sloped parking on some sites). Individual sites are noted for their "private" nature, providing a secluded feel. Reviews specifically mention an "excellent tent pad" at one site (Space 28) and "plenty of room for more than one tent," indicating generous space. Parking pads are also noted to "fit two cars easily."

• Restroom Facilities: The campground includes convenient "restroom and water" facilities, with one site (Space 28) being "Directly located across from the restroom and water," providing easy access. These are typically vault toilets in a more rustic setting, but their proximity is a plus.

• Water Access: Fresh water is available at the campground, mentioned in conjunction with the restrooms. This is a crucial amenity for cooking, drinking, and basic cleaning.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Individual campsites are generally equipped with picnic tables and fire rings (often with grills), essential for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires (always check for current fire bans).

• Kayaking/River Access: A standout service is the direct "kayaking access to the Siltcoos River." This allows campers to launch watercraft directly from the campground, facilitating paddling adventures without needing to transport kayaks far.

• Hiking Trail Access: The campground offers "good hiking trails along the river and out to the beach." This provides immediate access to scenic walking opportunities through the forest and dunes.

• Privacy: Despite being a "little campground," the sites are designed to offer significant "privacy," a highly valued aspect for campers seeking a tranquil experience.

• Quiet Environment: Guests confirm that the "campground was quiet most of the weekend," indicating a peaceful setting conducive to relaxation and enjoying nature, despite its proximity to the highway.

• Pet-Friendly: While not explicitly stated in the provided reviews, most U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campgrounds (which manage much of the Oregon Dunes area) are pet-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to verify specific pet policies.

Waxmyrtle Campground boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a standout choice for Oregonians seeking a memorable outdoor escape:

• Direct Siltcoos River Access for Kayaking: This is a major highlight. The ability to launch a kayak or other small watercraft directly from the campground into the Siltcoos River provides an unparalleled opportunity for serene paddling adventures. Exploring the river by water offers a unique perspective of the coastal forest and dunes ecosystem.

• Scenic Hiking Trails to the Beach: The presence of "good hiking trails along the river and out to the beach" means campers have immediate access to diverse natural exploration. The "beautiful" walk, even with the 3/4 mile stretch of dry sand to the ocean, offers a rewarding journey through varying landscapes, connecting the forest, river, and vast Pacific coastline.

• Privacy and Tranquility: Despite its convenient size, the campground offers surprisingly "private" sites. Combined with the "quiet" atmosphere and "no road noise" (despite being on the highway), this creates a truly peaceful environment for relaxation and connecting with nature.

• Excellent Tent Camping Experience: For tent campers, the "excellent tent pad" and "plenty of room for more than one tent" at sites like Space 28 are significant advantages, ensuring a comfortable and spacious setup.

• Convenient Restroom and Water Access: The close proximity of "restroom and water" facilities, particularly for sites like Space 28, adds a layer of convenience that enhances the camping experience, ensuring easy access to essential amenities.

• Ample Parking: Reviewers specifically noted that parking pads, such as at Space 28, can "fit two cars easily," which is a considerable convenience for groups or families with multiple vehicles.

• Wildlife Encounters: The mention of "Chipmunks and blue jays were our min visitors" highlights the presence of charming local wildlife, adding to the immersive natural experience. This is a delight for nature observers of all ages.

• Overall Positive Customer Experience: The strong desire to "absolutely return" by previous guests speaks volumes about the positive and memorable experiences had at Waxmyrtle, indicating a high level of satisfaction.

To plan your visit or gather more specific information about Waxmyrtle Campground, direct contact with the managing authority is the most reliable method. As part of the Siuslaw National Forest (Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area), the campground is typically managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

Phone: (541) 271-6000

Mobile Phone: +1 541-271-6000

Address: Oregon Coast Hwy, Dunes City, OR 97439, USA

When reaching out to the phone number provided, which typically connects to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Headquarters or a ranger district office, consider inquiring about:

• Current operating season and any potential closures or restrictions, especially regarding fire bans during dry periods.

• Specific site availability and reservation procedures, if applicable (many Forest Service campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but some may offer reservations).

• Detailed information on individual campsites, particularly concerning slope for RVs or specific tent pad characteristics, to help you pick the best site for your needs.

• Any fees for camping and additional vehicles.

• Updated information on the hiking trails and beach access, including current conditions.

• Specific guidelines for water access and disposal of waste.

• Pet policies and requirements.

Direct communication ensures you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for a well-prepared and enjoyable camping trip to Waxmyrtle Campground.

For Oregon locals, Waxmyrtle Campground presents an incredibly suitable and appealing option for an authentic and diverse outdoor adventure. Its unique blend of river access, hiking trails to the beach, and a peaceful forest setting perfectly aligns with what many Oregonians seek in a coastal camping experience.

Firstly, its prime location within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, with direct "kayaking access to the Siltcoos River," is a significant draw. Oregonians cherish our waterways, and the ability to launch directly from your campsite for a peaceful paddle is a unique and highly valued convenience. This offers a different perspective on the stunning coastal environment, away from the more crowded beach access points.

Secondly, the "good hiking trails along the river and out to the beach" provide a perfect balance of forest and coastal exploration. We appreciate the diversity of our landscapes, and the opportunity to hike through tranquil woods, alongside a river, and then emerge onto the vast expanse of the Oregon Coast beach is a quintessentially Oregonian experience. Even with the "3/4 of a mile walk on dry sand," the journey itself is part of the adventure and leads to a rewarding coastal vista.

Moreover, the campground’s emphasis on "private" and "quiet" sites resonates deeply with locals who often seek respite from busier areas. Finding a serene spot where you can truly relax and enjoy nature without excessive noise is a cherished commodity. The excellent tent pads and ample space make it particularly appealing for traditional tent campers looking for a comfortable and secluded experience amidst the coastal forest.

Finally, the strong desire to "absolutely return" expressed by fellow Oregonians who have stayed at Waxmyrtle speaks volumes. It indicates that the campground delivers a fulfilling and memorable experience, one that locals trust and appreciate. It's a place where the simple pleasures of camping are amplified by the stunning natural surroundings and the unique opportunities for river and beach recreation, making it an ideal choice for your next Oregon Coast adventure.

Waxmyrtle Campground

Oregon Coast Hwy, Dunes City, OR 97439, USA