Travel Itinerary
Tucked away on Oregon’s northern coast, Nehalem Bay State Park offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
This hidden gem sits on a sandy spit between the Pacific Ocean and Nehalem Bay, creating a unique coastal playground for visitors.
Whether you’re camping under shore pines or exploring miles of unspoiled beaches, this park delivers natural beauty without the crowds.
1. A Coastal Hideaway Worth the Journey
Nestled between forest and shore, this peaceful sanctuary rewards those willing to venture off the main coastal highway. Pine-scented air greets visitors upon arrival, while the distant roar of waves provides nature’s soundtrack.
Many travelers zoom past on Highway 101, completely unaware of the serene beauty waiting just minutes away. The park’s relative obscurity is precisely what preserves its magic and unhurried atmosphere.
2. Where Ocean Meets Bay
Standing at the park’s western edge, you’ll witness the raw power of Pacific waves crashing onto shore. Just a short walk east reveals the calm, protected waters of Nehalem Bay teeming with life.
Kayakers paddle through glassy waters while clam diggers search the mudflats during low tide. This remarkable contrast between wild ocean and sheltered bay creates a wonderland for water enthusiasts and photographers alike.
3. A Campground With Character
Forget crowded RV parks with neighbors practically touching your tent! The campground here weaves through coastal forest, offering surprising privacy despite its popularity.
Squirrels scamper between sites while deer occasionally wander through at dusk. For those seeking extra comfort, cozy yurts provide shelter from coastal storms without sacrificing the feeling of being immersed in nature’s embrace.
4. Wildlife On Its Own Terms
Morning walks often reveal fresh elk tracks crossing the dunes overnight. Birdwatchers flock here for good reason: over 350 species have been spotted in this coastal ecosystem!
Harbor seals frequently pop their curious heads above the bay’s surface, while winter brings the magnificent spectacle of gray whale migration just offshore. Patient observers might even spot river otters playing along the shoreline at dawn.
5. Adventure At Every Pace
Adrenaline seekers can gallop horses along the shoreline or tackle the 1.8-mile bike path that loops through diverse ecosystems. Meanwhile, those seeking tranquility can simply sink into the sand with a good book.
Crab traps dropped from the dock yield delicious rewards for dinner. As darkness falls, stargazers are treated to minimal light pollution, revealing constellations that city dwellers rarely experience in such clarity.