Sunset Bay State Park
00 review89814 Cape Arago Highway, COOS BAY, Oregon, 97420-9647, United States
Sunset Bay State Park
$7.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Tent sites are available for $20 per night. Extra vehicles are $7 per night. Specific fees for yurts and group sites are not detailed.
About this campground
Nestled along Oregon's dramatic coastline, Sunset Bay State Park beckons travelers with its perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty. Whether you're pitching a tent under towering conifers, settling into a full-hookup RV site, or experiencing the unique charm of a cozy yurt, you'll find yourself just moments from the rhythmic waves of Sunset Bay Beach. This coastal gem serves as your gateway to unforgettable adventures, with the renowned Shore Acres State Park and countless scenic treasures waiting to be discovered along the rugged shoreline.
Sunset Bay State Park caters to a wide range of campers with options for RVs, tents, group camping, and yurts. The campground features 29 full hookup sites, 34 electrical and water hookup sites, 66 individual tent sites, 2 group tent areas, and 8 rustic yurts.
Historical SignificanceJust a short journey from your campsite lies the crown jewel of Shore Acres State Park, where meticulously maintained botanical gardens bloom against a backdrop of crashing waves. These stunning gardens, perched dramatically on seaside cliffs, tell the story of a bygone era when lumber baron Louis Simpson transformed this rugged coastline into his private estate. Today, visitors can wander through formal gardens featuring plants from around the world, while scenic viewpoints offer breathtaking vistas that have inspired artists and nature lovers for generations.
Weather and SeasonsEmbrace the authentic Pacific Northwest experience where misty mornings give way to dramatic sunbreaks, and the ocean's moods paint an ever-changing canvas. Winter brings the coast's signature cool dampness, with temperatures hovering comfortably in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit. Rain showers are nature's frequent visitors here, creating that mystical atmosphere that makes the Oregon coast so enchanting. Pack your rain gear and warm layers – this is weather that builds character and creates the lush, emerald landscapes that define this spectacular region.
ElevationThis seaside sanctuary sits at sea level, where the ancient forests meet the endless Pacific. Your camping experience unfolds right at the ocean's edge, where the coastal plain gently rises to meet the surrounding headlands, creating a natural amphitheater that captures both the ocean's symphony and the forest's whispers.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where emerald coastal forests create a living cathedral above your campsite, their moss-draped branches filtering golden light onto fern-covered forest floors. Steps away, pristine beaches invite exploration during low tide, revealing tide pools teeming with colorful sea stars and anemones. The campground's strategic location offers front-row seats to nature's daily spectacle – from fog-shrouded mornings that slowly unveil dramatic sea stacks to fiery sunsets that paint the sky in impossible shades of orange and pink. This is where the raw power of the Pacific meets the gentle embrace of Oregon's coastal rainforest.
Geological RegionCoastal Region
Campsite details
AccessibilityBathrooms are marked as accessible, but there is no further detailed information about additional accessibility features.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size and include full hookup sites, electrical and water hookup sites, individual tent sites, group tent areas, and yurts. Some reviews indicate that larger RVs may find maneuvering challenging: "We have a big rig and barely fit in our spot."
Sites PrivacySites are described as densely packed, with low privacy. Multiple reviewers remarked on the closeness of sites: "These sites are so tightly packed that you can't even have a private conversation in your own tent," and another said, "The sites are also super close together so not great for privacy for couples."
Total Campsites139 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in the B and C loops are described as more spacious. D loop sites are noted for being small.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite numbers are not mentioned as best; user reviews highlight walking distance to the beach and proximity to attractions as key positives.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
No specific stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two vehicles per site, maximum of one included in the fee.
Groups
The campground includes 2 group tent areas. Specific details about maximum occupancy or vehicle limits were not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are tightly packed with minimal privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations required and can be made through the Oregon State Parks website.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required; no mention of walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyStandard policies apply. Cancellation and change policies can be found on the Oregon State Parks website.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Sunset Bay State Park offers a variety of activities, particularly emphasizing its proximity to natural attractions such as Sunset Beach. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The campground is located near Shore Acres State Park and Bastendorff Beach, adding to its recreational appeal. However, some reviewers noted that the campground itself is densely packed, making it more suitable for families than solo travelers.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and well-regarded. A trail leads to the botanical garden at Shore Acres, which one user described as "one of my favorite hikes of all time." Another noted, "Great walking trails."Swimming
The campground is within walking distance of Sunset Beach, described as "absolutely gorgeous" and ideal for sunrises and sunsets.Biking
Biking is a popular activity, with reviewers highlighting the ease of biking to nearby attractions. One user noted, "We biked all over and saw great sites." Another said, "Seemed really fun for bike-riding aged kids."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible, though specific details about species or best locations are not provided.Beach activities
Beach activities are a highlight, given the campground's proximity to Sunset Beach. One reviewer described it as "a short walk out to the beach for lovely sunrises/sunsets."Cultural and Educational Programs
The camp offers evening programs and a Junior Ranger Program within 10 miles.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed. Firewood is sold on-site, although hours for purchase are described as irregular by users.
- Quiet hours are Not enforced; user reviews report frequent noise disturbances during quiet hours.
Hazards
General hazardsWarnings about theft and criminal behavior are mentioned in user reviews. Blue-green algae blooms can occur in the park. Check health advisories on the Oregon Health Authority website.
Active alertsYurts were closed during the pandemic but have since reopened. Blue-green algae blooms are a recurring concern.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 100%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 12.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Foggy
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services available in North Bend and Coos Bay, located about 10-12 miles from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo peak season dates specified.
Trash and recyclingA recycling station is available within 10 miles.
Proximity to water featuresWalking distance to Sunset Bay Beach. Shore Acres and Bastendorff Beach are within a short drive.
Common complaintsNoise levels are high due to tightly packed sites and lack of enforcement of quiet hours. Bathrooms and showers, particularly in older loops, are sometimes in disrepair.
HostCampground hosts are present and described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews.
Campground Map
89814 Cape Arago Highway, COOS BAY, Oregon, 97420-9647, United States
Driving directions12 miles SW of Coos Bay. 3 miles south of Charleston on Cape Arago Hwy.
Access road is paved and maintained year-round. No specific mention of seasonal closures or difficult terrain.Nearby places
North Bend (approximately 10 miles, 15 minutes), Charleston (3 miles, 5 minutes), Coos Bay (12 miles, 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Campground is less than 15 minutes to services in North Bend/Coos Bay, which include grocery stores, gas stations, and other amenities.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Sunset Bay State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Sunset Bay State Park are mixed. Positive feedback highlights the campground's beautiful location, proximity to the beach, and access to recreational activities. However, common complaints include the cramped layout of sites, maintenance issues, and lack of cell service. The campground is noted as being more suitable for families than solo travelers.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Common themes in positive reviews include the campground's proximity to Sunset Beach, described as "absolutely gorgeous," and its access to nearby state parks like Shore Acres. Many reviewers praised...
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Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes the densely packed and noisy campsites, issues with maintenance such as unmowed grass and broken shower facilities, and the complete lack of cell phone service. Theft...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs if noise-sensitive, as the campground can be loud. Solo travelers or those seeking quiet may want to consider alternative locations, as this campground is more family-oriented....
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Seasonal Insights
Summer appears to be the busiest season with crowded sites and associated noise complaints. During the rainy season, some facilities such as showers and bathrooms may experience maintenance issues.
Camper Quotes
1. "Walking distance to Sunset Beach, which is absolutely gorgeous." - Ben Cox. 2. "Campground is nice however a bit of a let down maintenance wise." - Danita Crook. 3. "This is an intense, crowded,...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site A06 and A18 were specifically mentioned. A6 was noted for its root-heaved parking spurs, while A18 was described as a decent-sized site.
Accessibility Features
Limited information on accessibility. Bathrooms are noted as accessible, but no further details provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
Multiple reviews positively mentioned the campground's suitability for pets, including a leash-walk-friendly beach across the street.
Last updated August 10, 2025