Off a rough access road southeast of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Umpqua Sand Camping sits directly within the expansive sand dune system that stretches toward the Pacific Ocean. This primitive Forest Service campground accommodates RVs up to 100 feet and provides basic amenities including drinking water, restrooms, and a dump station, though campers should prepare for a more rustic experience than typical developed campgrounds.
The campground's defining feature is its immediate access to the dunes, where off-road vehicle enthusiasts create a constant backdrop of engine noise throughout the day. Jessica C. noted the site "was so loud all the time" due to the off-road vehicle activity, describing it as "a off-road vehicles paradise." The open terrain offers no natural windbreaks or shade, leaving campers exposed to coastal weather conditions. Sand infiltrates everything here, from gear to food preparation areas.
Rich M. highlights the campground's "great access to the dunes" and mentions that "the dunes have five fingers all of which have their own unique view of the dunes, lakes, and ocean." The primitive setup means no individual fire pits at sites, though campfires are permitted and firewood is available. Restroom facilities require a short drive to the main parking area. Campers exploring the broader region can find campsites near Siuslaw National Forest for different terrain options.
Cell service is available, and the $10-20 nightly rate reflects the basic amenities. Book ahead during peak dune season when OHV crowds arrive in force.
Description
Overview
Umpqua is home to the tallest sand dunes in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Off-road vehicle riding is a popular activity here, and visitors are rewarded with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean from the tops of the dunes.These sites are only accessible to 4X4 vehicles on soft sand. Please plan accordingly.
Recreation
The main attraction is off-road vehicle riding. The Umpqua area features a large open riding zone with expansive sand dunes and stunning vistas of the ocean and the surrounding topography. Each year, the Reedsport/Winchester Bay Chamber of Commerce hosts the summertime Dunefest event for riders of all ages. Dunefest provides opportunities for motocross racing, treasure hunting in the sand, freestyle riding shows, and more.
Facilities
Sand campsites can only be accessed by 4X4 vehicles. No water is available so campers should bring an ample amount. Campsites are primitive and all campers must bring portable toilets and fire pans. Seasonal rainfall may temporarily affect certain campsites; contact the Oregon Dunes Visitor Center for seasonal information. Standard sites fit 5 vehicles and up to 20 people. The group campsites fit 10 vehicles and 40 people. Campsites are available year-round (by reservation only) and reservations may fill up quickly in peak summer season. Within each campsite, all vehicles and tents must be positioned within 150 feet of the campsite marker post.
Natural Features
Campsites are dispersed amongst the dunes along the Pacific Coast. The Umpqua River is a short drive north and Eel Lake is a short drive south. The sand camping area is part of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, which is known for its wind-sculpted sand dunes towering up to 500 feet above sea level.
Nearby Attractions
Visit Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, to the north of the Umpqua sand camping area. The Umpqua River Lighthouse stands on the site of the first lighthouse built on the Oregon Coast in 1857. The current lighthouse dates back to 1890.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (541) 271-6000.
Charges & Cancellations
Campsites that are not occupied after 24 hours of arrival time will be considered as a "no show" and sites will be released for others to reserve. If campers will be arriving after 24 hours of their arrival time, they are encouraged to call the ranger station at 541-271-6000 to let staff know.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundUmpqua Sand Camping is located in Oregon
Directions
From Reedsport, Oregon, travel about 3 miles south on Highway 101 to Winchester Bay. Turn right onto Salmon Harbor Drive. Proceed for 2.5 miles on Salmon Harbor Drive to the National Forest boundary. Vehicles can access the sand at the boundary, or from the two Umpqua Beach day-use/off-road vehicle staging areas. Umpqua Beach Staging Area #3 is at the end of the road, a total of 4 miles from the intersection with Highway 101.
Coordinates
43.6313889 N
124.2119444 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 user
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/3/26- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/3/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 user
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 37 min from Eugene, OR
- 2 hrs 3 min from Corvallis, OR
- 2 hrs 8 min from Albany, OR
- 2 hrs 28 min from Grants Pass, OR
