Alder Dune
3.9755 reviews89630 Hwy 101, Florence, OR, 97439, USA
Alder Dune
$31.00 - $31.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$31.00
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
Facility rates for Alder Dune campsites are $31.00 per night for both Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric sites during peak seasons.
About this campground
Tucked between the tranquil waters of Alder and Dune Lakes, this hidden gem in the Siuslaw National Forest offers 39 secluded campsites where native rhododendrons and salal create natural privacy screens between neighbors. Here, the rhythmic calls of songbirds blend with the distant whisper of ocean waves, while old-growth Douglas firs tower overhead like ancient sentinels. Whether you're casting a line into the mirror-like lakes at dawn, following forest trails that wind through emerald ferns, or making the short journey to pristine Pacific beaches, Alder Dune serves as your basecamp for coastal Oregon adventures.
Alder Dune Campground offers several types of camping accommodations suitable for various needs, with options for tent camping, RV camping, and standard nonelectric sites.
Historical SignificanceAlder Dune Campground sits within the remarkable Siuslaw National Forest, one of only two national forests in the continental United States that touches the Pacific Ocean. This rare coastal ecosystem has supported diverse wildlife and human communities for thousands of years, from indigenous peoples who harvested the abundant resources to modern-day adventurers seeking connection with nature. The forest's unique position creates an extraordinary meeting place where temperate rainforest, freshwater lakes, and ocean environments converge.
Weather and SeasonsEmbrace the moody beauty of the Oregon coast, where winter brings gentle 51°F afternoons and crisp 44°F mornings wrapped in coastal mist. The campground experiences the region's signature rainfall, averaging nearly 2 inches per week during the wet season—perfect weather for cozying up in your tent to the percussion of raindrops on canvas. Summer offers a refreshing escape from inland heat, with cool ocean breezes keeping temperatures comfortable for hiking and exploration. Pack your rain gear and embrace the elements—there's something magical about experiencing the forest when it's glistening with fresh rain.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where towering Douglas firs create cathedral-like canopies overhead, their branches draped with moss like nature's own tapestries. The campground's two namesake lakes—Alder and Dune—offer glassy surfaces that perfectly reflect the surrounding forest on calm mornings. Just beyond the treeline, ancient sand dunes roll toward the Pacific, their windswept patterns constantly shifting like frozen waves. From your campsite, you might glimpse Roosevelt elk grazing in nearby meadows or catch the flash of an osprey diving for fish, while the salty tang of ocean air mingles with the earthy scent of forest floor.
Geological RegionNestled within the Central Coast Ranger District of the Siuslaw National Forest, Alder Dune occupies a fascinating geological crossroads where coastal mountains meet the sea. This extraordinary landscape tells a story millions of years in the making—ancient seafloor sediments pushed skyward, carved by rivers, and sculpted by wind into the dramatic dunes that give the campground its name. The interplay between forest, freshwater lakes, and ocean has created one of the most biodiverse regions in the Pacific Northwest, where tide pools, wetlands, and old-growth forests exist within miles of each other.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are mentioned indirectly. User "Lorena C" noted that campsite 6 was not accessible due to stairs, which were a challenge for individuals with arthritis.
Sites SizeReviews indicate site sizes vary widely. Some are reported as small or narrow, such as by "Shelia A" who mentioned having to pitch tents on cement pads, while "Megan S" noted that her spot was large and enveloped in nature.
Sites PrivacySites generally provide good privacy, as confirmed by reviews such as "Steven H," who commented on the charm and privacy of each campsite, and "Justin C," who appreciated the vegetation between campsites.
Total Campsites39 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 1, 2, and 3 are in a cul-de-sac ideal for small groups. Sites closer to the highway may experience noise. Site 6 is unique with stair access but highly praised despite accessibility concerns.
Best CampsitesSites 15 and 22 are frequently mentioned positively for their privacy and scenic surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limits are 14 nights within a 30-day rolling period.
Groups
There is no specific information provided for group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops with sites separated by native vegetation for privacy. Sites 1-3 form a cul-de-sac.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; reservations can begin June 25, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsAvailable on Recreation.gov and via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites may be available; visitors are encouraged to check ahead before arriving.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed up to midnight one calendar day before the scheduled arrival date for campsites. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Alder Dune Campground offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. The nearby lakes are stocked with rainbow trout, making fishing a popular activity. Hiking trails connect to the dunes and beach areas, providing moderate difficulty levels as described in the authoritative content and by users.
Hiking
A trail system starting at the day-use area leads through Alder Lake, over sand dunes, and connects to Sutton Trail and the Pacific Coast beach. Reviewers like "Tom B" and "Katherine U" praised the trails around the lake and dunes, although "Lorelei V" noted some trails are poorly marked.Fishing
Fishing is supported at Alder and Dune Lakes, which are stocked with rainbow trout several times a year, according to authoritative sources. "Marianne J" confirmed catching trout during her visit.Swimming
Swimming is mentioned by users like "Linda D" and "April C," who described swimming in the lake during warm days. Dune Lake is highlighted as sandy, clean, and shallow, ideal for wading.Wildlife viewing
The campground's quiet ambiance is conducive to wildlife viewing. "Jodie M" appreciated the presence of wildlife like owls and bullfrogs serenading campers at night.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are accessible via trails that lead to the Pacific Coast. "Linda D" noted restrictions for dogs at the beach during plover nesting season.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking are not explicitly stated but implied by "April C," who mentioned paddling around the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed; visitors are encouraged to burn wood sourced near the camping destination.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh mosquito populations near Alder and Dune Lakes. Ticks are also reported as occasional hazards by visitors.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 16 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
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
Florence, 6 miles away, hosts emergency services such as hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025; January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available at the campground. Recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Alder Lake and Dune Lake, providing fishing and walking trails.
Common complaintsMosquitoes and ticks are common issues experienced by campers. Some sites are noisy due to proximity to Highway 101. Campsites are reported to be small and occasionally sloped.
HostHosts are available onsite but feedback is mixed regarding their friendliness and responsiveness.
Campground Map
89630 Hwy 101, Florence, OR, 97439, USA
Driving directionsFrom Florence, Oregon, drive 6 miles north on Highway 101. The campground is located on the west side of the highway.
Roads are paved providing good access from Highway 101. The site allows year-round access but does not have electric hookups.Nearby places
Florence — 6 miles north (approximately 10 minutes driving time).
Nearby supplies
The city of Florence has grocery stores, camping supply shops, and gas stations available within 6 miles.
Camper Reviews
4.0
55 reviews
Alder Dune has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Alder Dune Campground range from highly positive experiences praising the privacy, cleanliness, and natural beauty, to complaints about noisy neighbors, mosquitoes, and proximity to the highway. Some sites are well-liked for their privacy and spaciousness, while others are criticized for being too small or sloped.
Review Summaries
Based on 55 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews frequently commend the privacy between sites, cleanliness of toilets, lush forest surroundings, and access to hiking trails and lakes. For example, "Erik Z" praised the clean bathrooms and...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include mosquito infestations, loud neighbors, ticks, noise from Highway 101, and sloped or narrow campsites. "Shelia A" mentioned tiny campsites where tents had to be placed on cement...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include bringing bug spray to combat mosquitoes, reserving a site far from Highway 101 to avoid noise, and checking site descriptions carefully for accessibility issues. "Lorena C"...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews are more frequent, with many users highlighting the lush greenery, swimming opportunities, and trails. However, there are more mentions of mosquitoes and highway noise during this...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The plants and bushes between campsites provide plenty of privacy." - Justin C
"Vault toilets were hands down the cleanest we've used yet. Sanitizer dispenser and all." - Erik Z
"We were serenaded...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite-specific reviews reveal varying experiences: campsite 6 was noisy and close to Highway 101; campsite 15 was praised as spacious and clean; campsite 22 was described as super private and...
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Accessibility Features
Limited accessibility features are noted, with issues like stairs at campsite 6 being mentioned by "Lorena C."
Based on 55 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed reviews on pet-friendliness. "Linda D" noted restrictions for dogs during plover nesting season, and "Briana G" complained about an off-leash dog causing disturbances.
Based on 55 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025