Eel Creek Campground
4.25197 reviewsOregon Dunes Visitor Center, 855 HWY 101, Reedsport, OR, 97467, USA
Eel Creek Campground
$22.00 - $44.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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
Nightly rates range from $22 to $44 depending on the type of site reserved. An $8 reservation processing fee applies to online bookings.
About this campground
Nestled within the breathtaking Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Eel Creek Campground invites you to discover a world where towering sand dunes meet coastal forests. With 51 thoughtfully spaced sites, this tranquil retreat serves as your basecamp for exploring wind-sculpted dunes that soar up to 500 feet high. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with nature here, featuring flush toilets, fresh drinking water, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings under starlit skies. Whether you're an avid hiker seeking dune adventures or a birder drawn to coastal species, Eel Creek offers the perfect balance of wilderness and comfort.
Eel Creek Campground provides traditional camping options, including spaces for tents and RVs. Notably, there are no RV hookups, and the emphasis is on a natural camping experience.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the dunes stands a beacon of maritime history – the majestic Umpqua River Lighthouse. First illuminated in 1857, this coastal guardian has weathered storms and guided countless vessels to safety. The current tower, built in 1890, continues its vigilant watch over the Pacific, offering visitors a tangible connection to Oregon's seafaring heritage and the generations of lighthouse keepers who called this rugged coastline home.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of the Oregon coast at Eel Creek. Summer brings golden days perfect for dune exploration, with warm temperatures and clear skies beckoning adventurers outdoors. As autumn arrives, the landscape shifts to a moodier palette, while winter storms showcase nature's raw power with wind and rain sculpting the ever-changing dunes. Spring awakens the coastal vegetation in brilliant greens, though visitors should note that mosquitoes make their presence known from April through August – a small price to pay for witnessing this dynamic ecosystem in full bloom.
ElevationPrepare for an elevation experience unlike any other as you ascend the magnificent dunes surrounding Eel Creek. These sandy giants climb to heights of 500 feet above sea level, rewarding intrepid hikers with panoramic vistas that stretch from dense coastal forests to the endless Pacific horizon. Each step up the shifting sands reveals new perspectives, making every climb a unique adventure where the journey truly becomes the destination.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape of striking contrasts where dense groves of rhododendrons and salal create intimate, secluded camping spots, while just beyond your site, vast expanses of sand invite exploration. The interplay of lush coastal vegetation and dramatic dune formations creates a photographer's paradise, with each turn of the trail revealing stunning vistas. Morning mist often cloaks the lower areas in mystery, while afternoon sun transforms the dunes into a golden sea of rippling sand patterns.
Geological RegionWelcome to one of North America's most remarkable coastal phenomena – the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Here, powerful Pacific winds have spent millennia sculpting sand into massive dunes that tower up to 500 feet above the ocean. This unique ecosystem represents the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America, where ancient forests give way to shifting sands, creating a dynamic landscape that changes with every storm. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean ensures constant evolution, making each visit a chance to witness nature's ongoing masterpiece.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not mentioned in the official documentation or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with pull-through options and areas large enough to accommodate tents and medium-sized RVs. Some sites are specifically noted for their spaciousness.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is a highlighted feature, with dense vegetation such as rhododendrons and salal providing natural barriers between sites. As one user stated, "Spacious sites with privacy backed up against the sand dunes."
Total Campsites51 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites 7 or 8 for direct access to dunes or 42/43 for privacy and sand views. Larger families may prefer sites 5 or 6.
Best CampsitesSites 7, 8, 42, and 43 are noted for their proximity to the dunes and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Exact check-in time is not provided.
Check-out
Exact check-out time is not provided.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. A maximum of 14 nights total is allowed within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site are not provided.
Groups
Group camping details are not provided in the available information.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into north and south loops, with an amphitheater between the two.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates year-round and is open for reservations from January 1 through December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up sites are mentioned; all sites require online reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date, subject to a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites (midnight one day before check-in) will also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities, centering on hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the nearby dunes. The most popular trail is the John Dellenback Dunes Trail, which provides a 2.7-mile (one-way) trek to the Pacific Ocean. This trail is noted for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain, featuring tall dunes and soft sand. Some reviews highlight the absence of ATV activity in surrounding areas as a positive feature for guests seeking tranquility.
Hiking
The John Dellenback Dunes Trail is a 2.7-mile (one way) trail that leads hikers through a conifer forest and across open dunes to the Pacific Ocean. Hikers often describe the trail as challenging but rewarding, with one user remarking, "Did the most spectacular dune hike right from the campground to the ocean."Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available nearby at Eel Lake and Tenmile Lake, though details about the types of fish or fishing quality are sparse.Boating
Boating activities can be enjoyed at nearby lakes such as Eel Lake and Tenmile Lake, although the campground itself does not provide direct boating facilities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is frequently mentioned, with the campground providing a peaceful setting for birdwatching and observing other local fauna.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, but the campground is open year-round.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not explicitly mentioned, but nearby lakes might support kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent spreading invasive species.
- Quiet hours are Exact quiet hours are not provided but loud groups have been reported disturbing other campers.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent between April and August. Windy conditions on the dunes may affect hiking.
Active alertsFrequent issues with water availability and restroom closures have been reported.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 17.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Foggy
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
Emergency services can be accessed in nearby towns, such as Reedsport, which has police, fire stations, and medical facilities within 10 miles.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available, but some user reviews report issues with overflowing dumpsters during peak times. Recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Tenmile Lake and Eel Lake, suitable for fishing and boating. No direct water features within the campground.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention water supply issues, cleanliness problems in restrooms, and noisy groups disturbing quiet hours.
HostCampground hosts are available but have mixed reviews regarding their helpfulness.
Campground Map
Oregon Dunes Visitor Center, 855 HWY 101, Reedsport, OR, 97467, USA
Driving directionsFrom Reedsport, Oregon travel south for 10 miles to Eel Creek Campground. The campground entrance is located on the right (west) side of Highway 101 near mile post 222.
The campground is located directly off Highway 101, making it easily accessible. There are no specific mentions of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Reedsport (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive), Winchester Bay (approximately 20 minutes drive), Coos Bay (approximately 35 miles, about 45 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
A Dollar General store is located a quarter-mile from the campground entrance. Additional supplies can be found in Reedsport or nearby towns like Lakeside, which has McKays Market.
Camper Reviews
4.3
197 reviews
Eel Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Eel Creek Campground range widely, reflecting both high praise for its natural beauty and seclusion as well as criticisms regarding facility maintenance. Many reviewers highlight the privacy of the sites and the proximity to the John Dellenback Dunes Trail. However, complaints about water outages and restroom closures are prevalent.
Review Summaries
Based on 197 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the scenic beauty of the dunes, the privacy of campsites due to dense vegetation, clean restrooms (when operational), and friendly camp hosts. One user...
Based on 197 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints revolve around the inconsistency of water and restroom facilities, with several users reporting closures and the use of porta-potties. Another significant issue is the lack of...
Based on 197 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra water and verifying restroom and water availability in advance. Hikers are advised to carry plenty of water for the dune trails. A user suggested, "Call before you go...
Based on 197 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground receives the most praise during the off-season for its tranquility and lack of crowds. Peak summer months see mixed reviews due to higher visitor numbers and occasional noise...
Based on 197 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The trail from the campground to the beach is challenging but well worth it." "Bathrooms were clean! Campground hosts were friendly and offered advice on hiking trails." "Nice private sites. Call...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes positive notes about sites 7, 8, 42, and 43, which are perched on the dunes. Complaints about site 13 reference a bright security light disrupting sleep.
Based on 197 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews on accessibility are limited, and specific information or feedback from users with disabilities is not provided.
Based on 197 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is described as pet-friendly. However, no specific features for pets are mentioned.
Based on 197 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025