The Oregon Coast has it all, from outdoor adventures and spectacular scenery to tons of free camping destinations.
Before you hit the road, be sure to add these locations to your itinerary.
Today, we’re highlighting the best budget-friendly camping in Oregon.
Let’s get into it!
Why Opt for Free Camping on the Oregon Coast?
The rugged coast of the Pacific Northwest features lush temperate rainforests, quaint seaside villages, and enchanting geological formations. You’ll also find plenty of free and budget-friendly camping opportunities throughout Oregon.
Imagine enjoying a hot cup of coffee from the comfort of your rig as you look out across the misty seascape. What could be better than that? After all, the only thing that could enhance the experience is knowing you didn’t pay a dime for your campsite.
It’s important to note that you can tent camp for free on all of Oregon’s public beaches. However, you can’t park cars or campers overnight in many places, so you’ll mostly encounter cyclists taking advantage of this option.
While waterfront options might be limited for RVers, plenty of boondocking sites are just off the coastline. You might have more spots at your disposal than you could imagine once you enter the surrounding wilderness!
Best Budget Camping in Oregon
From oceanfront sites to hidden gems deep in the rainforest, you’ll find plenty of places to set up your rig for the night. Here are some of the best free camping destinations on the Oregon Coast.
#1 Elk River Forest Road
Elk River Road, near Humbug Mountain State Park, is an excellent spot to overnight in a small camper van or tent. The rocky terrain and narrow road make it less than ideal for a trailer or other large rig.
Campsites begin near the fish hatchery and continue toward the river. You’ll find at least 20 pull-out sites along the way. However, we hear the riverfront spots are the ones to go for.
Don’t expect any amenities here, but the views and the sounds of the bubbling river should make up for it.
Find It Here: 42.735652, -124.401737.
#2 Dismal Nitch Rest Area
While we typically avoid including rest areas on our free campsite lists, this one gets a pass. Dismal Nitch Rest Area is just off SR 101, about ten miles south of Naselle. Pretty much every spot has incredible views of the Pacific.
You’ll technically be camping in a parking lot, but it comes with other perks beyond the spectacular sights. There are restrooms on-site, and you can grab a free cup of coffee before you get back on the road.
Be aware that you can only park here for about eight hours, so this needs to be a quick overnight stop along your journey.
Find It Here: 46.249786632, -123.858799389.
Check out these Sensational Day Trips Along the Oregon Coast!
#3 South Lake Dispersed Camping Area
The South Lake Campground in Siuslaw National Forest is on National Forest Development Road 1428 near the town of Beaver. You’ll take a narrow, one-lane gravel road deep into the forest to get here. It’s probably best for vans and car campers, but we’ve heard of folks towing 23’ trailers to this spot.
Once you get here, you can fish the fully stocked lake or get out on the water in a kayak or canoe. You’ll find pit toilets and fire rings but no trash service, so pack it in and pack it out.
Find It Here: 45.20163, -123.722933.
#4 Hebo Gravel Pit
The gravel pit is a popular spot for free camping in the dense coastal forest near Hebo, Oregon. After traversing the thin and windy road, the landscape opens into a vast open space with plenty of room for a few rigs.
The road that leads here, NF2282, is incredibly narrow. We don’t recommend trying to travel it after nightfall. All the surrounding forest roads are gravel and tend to be steep. We suggest skipping this spot if you’re in a Class A or a fifth wheel, but other setups should be fine.
While this area is relatively remote, locals often come here for target practice, so don’t be alarmed if you wake up to the sound of shots ringing through the air.
Find It Here: 45.144879, -123.755946.
The Temple of Oculus Anubis might be Oregon’s Weirdest Destination.
#5 Siuslaw Power Lines
Car campers and Class Bs can access this secluded spot in the Siuslaw National Forest. While there’s technically a turnaround, it’s heavily rutted and hard to maneuver, especially for big rigs.
Located at the end of one of the many forest roads, you won’t have access to any amenities. In fact, there are No Campfire signs throughout the property, so you won’t even be able to roast marshmallows here.
However, you’ll enjoy excellent views of the sand dunes. If you time your trip just right, you might even find ripe blackberries to add to your breakfast!
Find It Here: 43.853421, -124.033524.
#6 Wildhorse Campground
The Wildhorse Campground is on National Forest Development Road 3318 in Gold Beach. This free camping area is in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, near the Oregon Coast. It’s close to hiking trails, and cycling paths, and maybe best of all, it has pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables.
Wildhorse is the place to hit for true solitude. There’s no cell reception, allowing you to enjoy the wilderness and get off the grid for a while.
Be aware that Wildhorse is only open seasonally, so plan to stay here between May and November.
Find It Here: 42.460788, -124.162797.
#7 BLM Rd 28 1
Our final free camping area near the Oregon Coast is near the town of Roseburg. Located off of BLM Rd 28 1, you’ll find about three campsites suitable for sizeable rigs. The narrow road is fully paved and level, so most folks won’t have a problem traversing the path.
This destination features a small creek that flows behind the camping area. Folks who’ve stayed here say the waterway is soothing and provides excellent white noise as you drift off to sleep. While there aren’t any other amenities, including cell service, you can enjoy a peaceful night of rest off the beaten path.
Find It Here: 43.9695, -123.6711.
Grab your copy of the Oregon Bucket List Adventure Guide!
You Can’t Beat Free Camping in Oregon!
The Oregon Coast is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy plenty of free camping options. From the emerald forests to the misty ocean, there’s something for everyone in the Pacific Northwest.
The next time you head up the 101, be sure to check out these incredible budget-friendly campsites!
Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA
To be honest with you,we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).
You should give it a try!
As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours.Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.
Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site!
We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state).Access the list by submitting your email below:
