Nehalem Bay State Park RV & Campground Guide
Oregon
Set on the spectacular Oregon coast, Nehalem Bay State Park features four miles of white sand beaches and wild, sea-grass-covered dunes. The Pacific Ocean runs along the western edge of the park, and the calm waters of Nehalem Bay border the eastern side. Here, you can spend your afternoons swimming in the wild Pacific waves or kayaking through the bay and end the day with a bonfire as one of Oregon’s legendary sunsets turns the ocean to orange and gold. Thanks to its coastal location near the cities of Nehalem and Manzanita, the weather in the park tends to be cool year-round. Summer often brings warm days, but it’s a good idea to bring layers to combat the cool winds and morning mists no matter when you visit.
Spring 40-60 F
Summer 45-69 F
Fall 40-68 F
Winter 36-50 F
Nehalem, OR
Manzanita, OR
RV Resorts & Campsites in Nehalem Bay State Park
When you’re camping at Nehalem Bay State Park, an RV can take your vacation from good to great as it makes for a warm, dry escape from the ocean mists and sudden rainstorms. If you don’t own an RV, an RV rental makes it easy to select the perfect model for your group.
Nehalem Bay State Park Campground
With 259 sites, the Nehalem Bay State Park Campground almost always has spaces available. If you’re coming on a holiday weekend, it’s a good idea to book in advance. Each site comes with electric hookups and water, and there are flush toilets on-site. When your RV tanks are full, the campground’s dump station is a great perk. All of the park’s activities are close by, including the beaches, day-use areas, and playgrounds. Nightly rates start at $35.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: No
• Wi-Fi: No
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Dump station, kayaking, horse trails
Nehalem Shores RV Park
If you’re searching for campsites with full hookups, Nehalem Shores RV Park is a great option. It’s located just five miles northeast of the park, so you can get to the beach in just a few minutes. RV sites and cabins offer easy water access. You can walk right from your site down to the river for boating and fishing. Rates start at $45 per night with basic overflow spots starting at $36.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Other amenities: Fishing, river views
Paradise Cove RV Resort & Marina
Paradise Cove RV Resort & Marina sits across the bay from Nehalem Bay State Park. Here, you’ll find all of the comforts of home, and then some. The campground offers a pool, a hot tub, and a clubhouse. The restrooms and hot showers are a welcome treat after a day on the water, and the laundry room makes it easy to stay clean. Want to post photos on social media? The free Wi-Fi has you covered. Elsewhere in the resort, you’ll find basketball, billiards, a boat launch, and a space to cook crabs. Sites with 30-amp power start at $34 per night, and sites with 50-amp service go for $43.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Other amenities: Pool, hot tub, basketball, billiards
Rockaway Beach RV Park
A few miles south of the park, Rockaway Beach RV Park offers everything you need for a luxurious stay. Each site comes with full hookups and free Wi-Fi. The beach is just two blocks away, so you can get to the water quickly. On-site, you’ll find bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. This family-owned park has strict quiet hours, so you can rest assured that you’ll get a good night’s sleep. Rates start at $40 per night with additional fees for more than two guests.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Other amenities: Showers, laundry facilities
What to Do at
Nehalem Bay State Park
Inside Nehalem Bay State Park
The ocean and the bay are the primary attractions at Nehalem Bay State Park. Start your day with a misty morning beach walk, and explore the bay by kayak or paddleboard. Hike or cycle the bike path, or try your hand at crabbing and clamming. If you’re up for an adventure, book a tour of the Bay with the park’s partner vendor, Kayak Tillamook. Or take a sunset ride down the beach with Oregon Beach Rides, which also operates out of the park.
Outside Nehalem Bay State Park
Nehalem Bay State Park is located on one of the most beautiful stretches of the Northern Oregon coastline. Within a short drive, you’ll find mist-shrouded sea stacks and towering, tree-lined cliffs. There’s plenty to do outside the park whether you want to play golf, enjoy the spectacular coastline, or explore one of the charming local beach towns.
Restaurants
Handy Creek Bakery
This adorable cafe serves a full selection of baked goods as well as classic breakfast and lunch dishes. With its teahouse-style ambiance, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
Type: Bakery
Location: 63 Highway 101 N., Wheeler, OR 97147
Rising Star Cafe
With its ever-changing menu, Rising Star Cafe always has a new dish to delight your palate. Each meal features fresh ingredients. Look forward to options like seafood, steak, and lamb.
Type: American
Location: 92 Rorvik Ave., Wheeler, OR 97147
Bunkhouse Restaurant
This low-key restaurant is located just a few minutes from the park, making it a great stop for a quick family meal. It offers a particularly delicious selection of hearty breakfasts.
Type: American
Location: 36315 Highway 101 N., Nehalem, OR 97131
Big Wave Café
Specializing in seafood and other locally sourced ingredients, Big Wave Café is a Manzanita classic. From Dungeness crab to prime rib, there’s an option for every preference.
Type: Seafood
Location: 822 Laneda Ave., Manzanita, OR 97130
Left Coast Siesta
Satisfy your burrito craving at this spot, which serves generously sized dishes in a colorful environment. When the weather’s warm, ask for a seat on the outdoor patio.
Type: Mexican
Location: 288 Laneda Ave., Manzanita, OR 97130
Shopping
Moxie Fair Trade
This beautiful shop carries a range of fair-trade products produced by artisans from around the world. Ask about the personal shopping sessions.
Location: 387 Laneda Ave. #C, Manzanita, OR 97130
Salt & Paper
With a stock that includes everything from handmade soaps to work by local artists, this sweet gift shop is the perfect spot to pick up a souvenir.
Location: 411 Laneda Ave., Manzanita, OR 97130
Wheeler Treasures
Wheeler Treasures features a selection of hand-picked antiques, making it a fun stop for all types of treasure hunters.
Location: 395 Nehalem Blvd., Wheeler, OR 97147
Beach Crafters
If you’re into crafting, this is a must-visit shop in Rockaway Beach. Pick up everything from craft kits to individual supplies.
Location: 116 Highway 101 N., Rockaway Beach, OR 97136
Flamingo Jim's Gifts & Clothing
When it rains, spend an hour browsing the eclectic gifts at Flamingo Jim’s. From toys to clothes, there’s something to delight everyone in your family.
Location: 234 South Highway 101, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136
Sightseeing
Oswald West State Park
Located just seven miles north of Nehalem Bay State Park near Manzanita, Oswald West State Park offers another perspective on the Oregon Coast. Here, thick forests run right to sandy beaches, and beautiful rocky cliffs rise from the waves. Hike the trail network, enjoy a beach bonfire, or simply stroll along the beach.
Location: Arch Cape, OR 97102
Oregon Coast Trail
This 382-mile trail runs right past Nehalem Bay State Park, offering spectacular views of the shoreline. Hike north toward Neahkahnie Beach, or go south toward Nedonna Beach. There are plenty of access points along the way, so you can do an out-and-back trip or use two cars and shuttle from point to point.
Location: Oregon Coast (runs from the mouth of the Columbia River to the California border)
Manzanita Links
Drive a few miles to Manzanita, and play 18 holes at Manzanita Links. This lush course is nestled in the forested hills, providing spectacular views and a relaxing afternoon.
Location: 908 Lakeview Dr., Manzanita, OR 97130
Kelly’s Brighton Marina
Located right across Nehalem Bay from the park, this marina is the perfect spot to try crabbing. The staff rents out all of the gear you need and helps you learn this popular local activity. Depending on the season, you can also watch whales, rent a boat, and go fishing.
Location: 29200 Highway 101 N., Rockaway Beach, OR 97136
Rockaway Beach
This small town, which sits just four miles south of the park, makes for a fun day trip. Walk along the beach, pop into the local boutiques, and enjoy a seafood meal with views of the ocean.
Location: 103 S. 1st Street, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136 (Visitor’s Center)
How to Get to
Nehalem Bay State Park
Nehalem Bay State Park is located on the northern part of the Oregon Coast. No matter where you’re coming from, you’ll need to get to Highway 101. From Highway 26, connect to Highway 53. From the interior of the state, you can take Highway 6 to Tillamook and turn north on Highway 101.
Entering Nehalem Bay State Park
Nehalem Bay State Park is open year-round, so you can visit at any time. Day-use areas close at 10 p.m.
Per vehicle (day use) : $5
Are you planning to explore the Oregon Coast at Nehalem Bay State Park this year? Whether you’re camping in the park or just going for a day trip, the RVshare team wants to hear all about your visit. If you’re sharing your vacation on Instagram or Facebook, tag RVshare in each post. Have other tips or stories? Send them by email along with your favorite photos to [email protected]