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A gorgeously scenic hiking area does not necessarily make for a great campground experience nearby. Go for the hikes, by all means, but none of my camping visits here warrant a return, especially if we're talking about tent camping (they have yurts and cabins as well). The pluses are that you're practically right next to the beach here and the sands are long and beautiful, great for long walks and/or staring at the moon. The negatives? Mostly small campsites, many of which have no privacy to the site right next to yours, tends to be crowded (and loud) and frequented by lots of families. Choose your spot carefully. No judgement, just saying if you're looking for a quiet night under the stars, this ain't it. Bathroom layout is also not the greatest. 2 stars for camping. The trails generally start off from the Day Use area further south (camping to the right, hiking to the left) and are generally moderate though there are a couple of thigh burners if you go all the way down to the beach from the ridge. The views are incredible for the most part. 4 stars for hiking!
We stopped here for rock hunting, there really isn't any but cliff cutaways!, and enjoyed the open beach and walking. This is a really great spot if you are looking for beach walking as it it miles long and open. It's also a great spot for beach play time either kids and sand toys or beach sports. My daughter had fun running through the streams and I enjoyed the lack of sharp rocks she could cut her bare feet on. Bring a lunch or go camping here and enjoy this open lounge friendly beach.
Driving down from Cannon Beach to Depoe Bay, we stopped here on a whim. It had some excellent views of the ocean, some walking trails, picnic tables and built-in charcoal grills. Parking was seemingly adequate, although we were arriving closer to sunset. We stayed about 10-20 minutes just soaking in the scenery and stretching our legs during the trek down the Oregon coast. It looks like there may be camping which is probably pretty awesome next to the ocean, unless you're afraid of Sea Bears (Bears that come out of the Ocean at night drawn towards the blue-light from cell phones). This could be a place to spend a bit more time hiking, hanging at the beach, having a picnic or (gasp) camping (some reviews say they have cabins). As a tourist in Oregon, the cabin may be a good option.
We'd attempted Cape Trail in June, but at the halfway point the mud/water pools were so bad we had to turn back. This weekend they had signs up that implied the same situation, but luckily there was some minimal mud but nothing to prohibit us from completion this go-round. After that mid-point the root art takes over, and now that we could see down into some of those wells we were glad we hadn't tried to push through last time. The trail has some minor elevation changes, but nothing big. You most definitely have to watch your step throughout most of the second half. We arrived around 8:30 on Saturday to beat the usual crowds that hit this trailhead. As a result, we had the trail to ourselves all the way to the point. However, as expected on our return we met group after group...and the lot was full by the time we returned. The hubby did note that the trailhead toilets left a bit to be desired. The trail was clean, lots of birds and the sounds of critters scurrying about in the brush. The views are great along the way and at the point, and there's a bench there should you want a break before heading back. We made our way down to the main park afterwards to hang out for a bit. The day use parking lot was fairly empty and it was a pretty peaceful beach this day, although the campground signs said full. I can't attest to the camping here, but the trails are nice and a decent workout.
This campground's proximity to the beach adds a whole star to it! That's the main draw, after all, and it serves its purposes in that respect. Campsites were nice, though some were definitely better than others in terms of privacy, plants as wind shields, and proximity to beach entry. Would definitely recommend looking them up before booking. Beautiful long beach! Nice hikes nearby, though fairly muddy when we went in June. Lots of animal activity - mostly birds and squirrels, but we saw a few bunnies too. Camp hosts were great and offered a free wood bundle. Bathrooms were standard campground bathrooms, not awful but could use more frequent cleaning and a better way to dry out after people shower. I did not/would not want to shower in them.
Stayed 3 nights here, incredibly busy. It's just okay, not the best campground but not the worst either. The beach is very nice. The bathroom was the worst part. Really busy, small, cramped, dirty, and for the first night there was no soap and only a little toilet paper until the person who restocks and cleans came back in the morning. Showering is a long wait too, since there's so many sites. Overflow parking is a nightmare and you have to park in day use if you have more than 2 cars. Park rangers are visibly tired of dealing with everyone at this busy state park and campground.
We camped here over 4th of July weekend and had a great time. We had site D42 and it fit our large tent and had privacy. Many (prob 80%) of the sites don't have privacy and are quite small /exposed however. Thoroughly check site pics and I recommend ones in the forestry area. There's a few gems of sites in the backs of the loops c and d. The campground is super well maintained w/ doggy trash, ice and firewood, constantly stocked bathrooms and showers with free hot water! I would definitely come back.
We have been out on the remarkable Oregon coast a few weeks. Mostly it's been sunny, can't beat that. It is summer! Sand, saltwater, towering jagged cliffs, Oregonian lush green with fresh coastal air all around "K-NEX's" you within this natural world - and the music of relentless waves endeavor to overtake the shore. Connected and alive, I'm ready to do some hiking. If you want some ankle twisting, knee straining, quad burning and the desire to work that booty booty - this is it! If your glutes are stretched and ready to crank it up! Get after at Cape Lookout! Three trails can be accessed from the same parking lot. All are out and back, up and down. All three pretty tough. Trails are soft covered with tree needles - easy on feet. All have puzzling tree roots sprawling up, down and out in all directions - creates obstacles for stepping over and or slipping and falling. I dipped and slipped but did not fall. All under shade of giant Western Hemlock and Sitka Spruce among others. Trails lined with ferns, some edible Huckle berry and Sela berry - know your plants, before you stick something like poison ivy in your mug! Bring a windbreaker, the weather is subject to become overcast in a hurry or sunny. Cape trail is 5.3 miles (elevation change 880 ft.), North trail 5 miles (elevation change 945 ft.) and South trail 4 miles (elevation change 825 ft). North and south end up or start from the beach while the Cape trail end point is about 1000 ft or more - sheer sheer drop to the ocean below.
Amazing campground right on the beach with only a sand dune between you and the water. Clean. Nice bathrooms. Friendly rangers and easy checkin (we reserved on ReserveAmerica). Campsite for tent @ A-46 Trail head right down the road to great hikes out to the point or to the beach. Loved our stay!
Excellent beach access, trail head and variety of picnic tables with a view both along the trail and near the beach, even a covered area. The beach access is easier than some and few rocks at the entrance. There are cabins to rent in the trees along the trail, and bathrooms near by. The parking lot is large and has room for all sorts of vehicles and recreational attachments. The hike crosses a stream (however it is fish populated and is not for wading or playing in) then has various inclines and down slopes. Dirt path with vegetation on it and rangers are able to drive a ways on a quad but are not often looking for hikers unfortunately. There is a warning of cougars so best to have a whistle with you and read the sign for how to react. But the ocean, birds and nature sounds are tranquil. There is also a trial head access further up the main road to cut out some hiking since the hike can take 1-2hours and is up to 6miles so long accordingly for food and water. There is a FEE to park here. Park rangers are near by at the campground but the camp grounds are for reservation only and are currently sold out for the summer by 6 months in advance.
The Good- Awesome location, 25 yards from beach. Great location just outside of Tillamook. Lots of sites.. The Bad- Almost all Sites are right on top and behind and next to each other with no privacy at all. One set of bathrooms was closed; had to walk quite a way to use a different one. Lots of water spigots didn't work and weren't marked as such. The Ugly- Being just opened, sites were very overgrown with vegetation and barely kept up. I understand with the virus everything is taking time. The bathrooms that were open were in horrid condition. The urinals leaked water all over the floor, the soap dispenser was empty through our whole stay. Reserving sites was a nightmare and everything was sold out, but out 1st night there, there had to be 10 open sites, same with the 2nd night. The Skinny- I'd go back just for the location. Absolutely worth all the other inconveniences.
Beauty 5 stars. View 5 stars. Cleanliness of the park 4 stars. Restroom facilities 1 star This Park was one heck of a great hike. A bit hard but not too difficult. I absolutely loved the views and would do this hike a hundred times over again. Such a fun day!
The only thing stopping me from giving this State Park Campground a solid 5, is that there is no swimming pool..though that said, it is,a State Park Campground and I get it, so it is a very solid 4.8 star rating out of 5. 1. The drive is so beautiful and easy, it's just the perfect location. Off the beaten path, yet close to surrounding coastal cities. 2. The Campground itself is just amazing! Rv sites of all sizes, full hookups to no hookups, rent sites, yurts and cabins. It truly hits on all styles of camping. Just outstanding. And the prices for each level of camping is just shy of me feeling like I'm ripping them off. Seriously great affordable rates that DO NOT BREAK THE FAMILY BUDGET. 3. The trees. The natural habitat and organic landscape is perfection and so ideal for us city folk who just need to unwind and reconnect. I didnt miss my phone I kept in the trailer for 4 solid days, and neither did anyone else in our large group. 4. The beach...The view - ABSOLUTELY STUNNING in every way, from morning through night! The most beautiful sunset I have ever seen, and I've seen some stunning sunsets through out the states and internationally. 5. Slight downfall. Quiet time is at 10pm. And I mean 10pm! And they patrol every inch of the park every 5 minutes just waiting, wanting to pounce. Ok, yes, our group was warned on the first night at 10:10pm, and yes, we were loud, but when reminded, we were quiet and never had to be reminded. The next night at 6pm the Ranger came around to flex his security muscles to our large group. Yeah, we were a little pissed but hey, sometimes you just cant fight the man, so we minded our loud voices and made it all other nights without further warnings. So, just get tricky and use your inside voices at 10pm on. We set the timer on our phone just in case.. lol In short...ok, maybe not...you are a total trooper for reading this entire review. Kudos to you. But, if you camp, tent, yurt or cabin. Book a spot here, you will not regret it, even with the Park Ranger doing their quiet rounds! CHEERS!
10 months ago
2 months ago
A gorgeously scenic hiking area does not necessarily make for a great campground experience nearby. Go for the hikes, by all means, but none of my camping visits here warrant a return, especially if we're talking about tent camping (they have yurts and cabins as well). The pluses are that you're practically right next to the beach here and the sands are long and beautiful, great for long walks and/or staring at the moon. The negatives? Mostly small campsites, many of which have no privacy to the site right next to yours, tends to be crowded (and loud) and frequented by lots of families. Choose your spot carefully. No judgement, just saying if you're looking for a quiet night under the stars, this ain't it. Bathroom layout is also not the greatest. 2 stars for camping. The trails generally start off from the Day Use area further south (camping to the right, hiking to the left) and are generally moderate though there are a couple of thigh burners if you go all the way down to the beach from the ridge. The views are incredible for the most part. 4 stars for hiking! read more
We stopped here for rock hunting, there really isn't any but cliff cutaways!, and enjoyed the open beach and walking. This is a really great spot if you are looking for beach walking as it it miles long and open. It's also a great spot for beach play time either kids and sand toys or beach sports. My daughter had fun running through the streams and I enjoyed the lack of sharp rocks she could cut her bare feet on. Bring a lunch or go camping here and enjoy this open lounge friendly beach. read more
Driving down from Cannon Beach to Depoe Bay, we stopped here on a whim. It had some excellent views of the ocean, some walking trails, picnic tables and built-in charcoal grills. Parking was seemingly adequate, although we were arriving closer to sunset. We stayed about 10-20 minutes just soaking in the scenery and stretching our legs during the trek down the Oregon coast. It looks like there may be camping which is probably pretty awesome next to the ocean, unless you're afraid of Sea Bears (Bears that come out of the Ocean at night drawn towards the blue-light from cell phones). This could be a place to spend a bit more time hiking, hanging at the beach, having a picnic or (gasp) camping (some reviews say they have cabins). As a tourist in Oregon, the cabin may be a good option. read more
We'd attempted Cape Trail in June, but at the halfway point the mud/water pools were so bad we had to turn back. This weekend they had signs up that implied the same situation, but luckily there was some minimal mud but nothing to prohibit us from completion this go-round. After that mid-point the root art takes over, and now that we could see down into some of those wells we were glad we hadn't tried to push through last time. The trail has some minor elevation changes, but nothing big. You most definitely have to watch your step throughout most of the second half. We arrived around 8:30 on Saturday to beat the usual crowds that hit this trailhead. As a result, we had the trail to ourselves all the way to the point. However, as expected on our return we met group after group...and the lot was full by the time we returned. The hubby did note that the trailhead toilets left a bit to be desired. The trail was clean, lots of birds and the sounds of critters scurrying about in the brush. The views are great along the way and at the point, and there's a bench there should you want a break before heading back. We made our way down to the main park afterwards to hang out for a bit. The day use parking lot was fairly empty and it was a pretty peaceful beach this day, although the campground signs said full. I can't attest to the camping here, but the trails are nice and a decent workout. read more
This campground's proximity to the beach adds a whole star to it! That's the main draw, after all, and it serves its purposes in that respect. Campsites were nice, though some were definitely better than others in terms of privacy, plants as wind shields, and proximity to beach entry. Would definitely recommend looking them up before booking. Beautiful long beach! Nice hikes nearby, though fairly muddy when we went in June. Lots of animal activity - mostly birds and squirrels, but we saw a few bunnies too. Camp hosts were great and offered a free wood bundle. Bathrooms were standard campground bathrooms, not awful but could use more frequent cleaning and a better way to dry out after people shower. I did not/would not want to shower in them. read more
Stayed 3 nights here, incredibly busy. It's just okay, not the best campground but not the worst either. The beach is very nice. The bathroom was the worst part. Really busy, small, cramped, dirty, and for the first night there was no soap and only a little toilet paper until the person who restocks and cleans came back in the morning. Showering is a long wait too, since there's so many sites. Overflow parking is a nightmare and you have to park in day use if you have more than 2 cars. Park rangers are visibly tired of dealing with everyone at this busy state park and campground. read more
2 years ago
We camped here over 4th of July weekend and had a great time. We had site D42 and it fit our large tent and had privacy. Many (prob 80%) of the sites don't have privacy and are quite small /exposed however. Thoroughly check site pics and I recommend ones in the forestry area. There's a few gems of sites in the backs of the loops c and d. The campground is super well maintained w/ doggy trash, ice and firewood, constantly stocked bathrooms and showers with free hot water! I would definitely come back. read more
We have been out on the remarkable Oregon coast a few weeks. Mostly it's been sunny, can't beat that. It is summer! Sand, saltwater, towering jagged cliffs, Oregonian lush green with fresh coastal air all around "K-NEX's" you within this natural world - and the music of relentless waves endeavor to overtake the shore. Connected and alive, I'm ready to do some hiking. If you want some ankle twisting, knee straining, quad burning and the desire to work that booty booty - this is it! If your glutes are stretched and ready to crank it up! Get after at Cape Lookout! Three trails can be accessed from the same parking lot. All are out and back, up and down. All three pretty tough. Trails are soft covered with tree needles - easy on feet. All have puzzling tree roots sprawling up, down and out in all directions - creates obstacles for stepping over and or slipping and falling. I dipped and slipped but did not fall. All under shade of giant Western Hemlock and Sitka Spruce among others. Trails lined with ferns, some edible Huckle berry and Sela berry - know your plants, before you stick something like poison ivy in your mug! Bring a windbreaker, the weather is subject to become overcast in a hurry or sunny. Cape trail is 5.3 miles (elevation change 880 ft.), North trail 5 miles (elevation change 945 ft.) and South trail 4 miles (elevation change 825 ft). North and south end up or start from the beach while the Cape trail end point is about 1000 ft or more - sheer sheer drop to the ocean below. read more
7 years ago
Amazing campground right on the beach with only a sand dune between you and the water. Clean. Nice bathrooms. Friendly rangers and easy checkin (we reserved on ReserveAmerica). Campsite for tent @ A-46 Trail head right down the road to great hikes out to the point or to the beach. Loved our stay! read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
Excellent beach access, trail head and variety of picnic tables with a view both along the trail and near the beach, even a covered area. The beach access is easier than some and few rocks at the entrance. There are cabins to rent in the trees along the trail, and bathrooms near by. The parking lot is large and has room for all sorts of vehicles and recreational attachments. The hike crosses a stream (however it is fish populated and is not for wading or playing in) then has various inclines and down slopes. Dirt path with vegetation on it and rangers are able to drive a ways on a quad but are not often looking for hikers unfortunately. There is a warning of cougars so best to have a whistle with you and read the sign for how to react. But the ocean, birds and nature sounds are tranquil. There is also a trial head access further up the main road to cut out some hiking since the hike can take 1-2hours and is up to 6miles so long accordingly for food and water. There is a FEE to park here. Park rangers are near by at the campground but the camp grounds are for reservation only and are currently sold out for the summer by 6 months in advance. read more
The Good- Awesome location, 25 yards from beach. Great location just outside of Tillamook. Lots of sites.. The Bad- Almost all Sites are right on top and behind and next to each other with no privacy at all. One set of bathrooms was closed; had to walk quite a way to use a different one. Lots of water spigots didn't work and weren't marked as such. The Ugly- Being just opened, sites were very overgrown with vegetation and barely kept up. I understand with the virus everything is taking time. The bathrooms that were open were in horrid condition. The urinals leaked water all over the floor, the soap dispenser was empty through our whole stay. Reserving sites was a nightmare and everything was sold out, but out 1st night there, there had to be 10 open sites, same with the 2nd night. The Skinny- I'd go back just for the location. Absolutely worth all the other inconveniences. read more
7 years ago
Beauty 5 stars. View 5 stars. Cleanliness of the park 4 stars. Restroom facilities 1 star This Park was one heck of a great hike. A bit hard but not too difficult. I absolutely loved the views and would do this hike a hundred times over again. Such a fun day! read more
The only thing stopping me from giving this State Park Campground a solid 5, is that there is no swimming pool..though that said, it is,a State Park Campground and I get it, so it is a very solid 4.8 star rating out of 5. 1. The drive is so beautiful and easy, it's just the perfect location. Off the beaten path, yet close to surrounding coastal cities. 2. The Campground itself is just amazing! Rv sites of all sizes, full hookups to no hookups, rent sites, yurts and cabins. It truly hits on all styles of camping. Just outstanding. And the prices for each level of camping is just shy of me feeling like I'm ripping them off. Seriously great affordable rates that DO NOT BREAK THE FAMILY BUDGET. 3. The trees. The natural habitat and organic landscape is perfection and so ideal for us city folk who just need to unwind and reconnect. I didnt miss my phone I kept in the trailer for 4 solid days, and neither did anyone else in our large group. 4. The beach...The view - ABSOLUTELY STUNNING in every way, from morning through night! The most beautiful sunset I have ever seen, and I've seen some stunning sunsets through out the states and internationally. 5. Slight downfall. Quiet time is at 10pm. And I mean 10pm! And they patrol every inch of the park every 5 minutes just waiting, wanting to pounce. Ok, yes, our group was warned on the first night at 10:10pm, and yes, we were loud, but when reminded, we were quiet and never had to be reminded. The next night at 6pm the Ranger came around to flex his security muscles to our large group. Yeah, we were a little pissed but hey, sometimes you just cant fight the man, so we minded our loud voices and made it all other nights without further warnings. So, just get tricky and use your inside voices at 10pm on. We set the timer on our phone just in case.. lol In short...ok, maybe not...you are a total trooper for reading this entire review. Kudos to you. But, if you camp, tent, yurt or cabin. Book a spot here, you will not regret it, even with the Park Ranger doing their quiet rounds! CHEERS! read more
We stayed at Cape Lookout for three nights in the middle of the second week in July 2012. The valley was having sunny 80 something degree weather but on the coast it was 60 degrees and overcast most of the time. We picked a camp site unseen based on some reviews and map of the campground. Camp sites are rather close to one another (with a few exceptions) even though on the map they look to be somewhat apart. The rangers were friendly and very helpful when we arrived. Sections A & B are closest to the surf and if you are lucky, there is a bit of brush or a tree between you and your neighbors. If you like that kind of camping, cool, we don't. Sections C & D have more brush and trees but most of the sites were divided only by several more bushes and trees than Sections A & B. If you are looking for some degree of seclusion, I recommend the following sites: D35 (The site we stayed in, bring a rope and blanket for one side), D32, D30, D49 (an RV is on one side behind some trees), D55 (a bit close to the road) and D56 (also a bit close to the road and could be windy as there is little cover from the ocean side). There is a small stream running through much of the D section and behind many of the sites, I called this "the swamp" because it is full of skunk cabbage (not in bloom when we were there thank the heavens). The mosquitoes actually weren't very bad at all, sure, we were bitten a little but we didn't even use a repellent. Either they treat the swamp, or we just timed our visit right. Recommendation: Bring bug repellent. Several of the camp sites on D section had some mud or soggy ground and a few had graveled covering these wet areas. Our neighbors told us that they'd been told that there'd been a recent unexpected downpour and it has flooded several of the campsites. Now that would be nasty! I noticed that in many campsites in D section the swamp was right along side or behind and all it would take is a good rain to cause the water to rise and creep into the campsites. Recommendation: Tarps just in case and don't even consider in the rainy season. You can hear the ocean in D section at night when it is quiet, that was nice. We took our three terriers on this camping trip and they all did very well. Restroom, the best thing I can say about them is they were functional, running cold water and two sets of electrical plugs. I can't say anything else about them. We didn't use the showers, heated water and washed up in the tent. There are NO campground trash containers, so you have to accumulate your own and deposit it all the way up front at the ranger's station/entrance along with recyclable containers. Recommendation: Bring trash bags. We bought three bundles of firewood from the campground at $5 each. It was hard to split into smaller pieces and sometimes impossible because most of it was from small trees (knots). When split the wood was moist to the touch and very difficult to burn. Our only saving grace was that we had brought along some good dry wood and several commercial fireplace logs (sawdust and wax). Burning our good wood and the fireplace logs (cut in half or thirds) kept the moist wood going and helped dry out the rest that we leaned against the metal fire pit. Our neighbors didn't have as much luck with their fires even with gathering up dry sticks to help the fire. Recommendation: Bring your own wood and/or fireplace logs. It was fun being close to the ocean and we might be back, pick one of the more secluded campsites, go when it is not likely to be any rain, bring wood and fireplace logs. read more
16 years ago
Let me just say I'm not a huge camper and so camping in a Yurt is probably as rough as I want to get. We first went last year and then back again this year. We pick a date and then mark on the calendar the first time we can book it online. You can book as early as nine months in advance. So, when we first got there we unloaded and got settled. We brought the flannel sheets and made the bed (it's a plastic coated foam mattress) and so it's much more like a real bed then sleeping in sleeping bags. Although, you could do that if you so choose. It has two outlets inside and two lights inside as well as a light outdoors for the porch. It also has a cadet heater that is electric and that helps you keep pretty toasty. It also has a sky light that you can crack open just a bit for some fresh air if necessary. This place could sleep about five people but it would be pretty cozy in there. They do not allow pets in the yurt so be advised about that. Last year when we stayed it rained so hard that it was really loud in the yurt. This year it was beautiful out and the rains had yet to start. We had a nice site where there were trees and bushes to essentially block out the neighboring camps. The campfire was fun and there was little wind so the smoke went straight up rather than in my eyes as per the normal. (smile) We took a hike all the way out to the point of Cape Lookout. It was a dry day but some of the trail was mired in mud so be sure and wear boots and don't be afraid to get muddy. The hike is 2.5 miles in and of course there is the 2.5 miles out. It was a beautiful sunny day early this October and it was about 80 degrees at 4:30pm when we got to the point. We got back to the yurt in time for dinner and some smores around the campfire. All in all a good time and we will be back next year. read more
Cape Lookout was just a wonderful surprise on our journey back to Portland from the coast. What a beautiful sight, from start to finish. I wish that we had had more time to explore, hike, and enjoy the scenery, but we were pressed for time. I had no idea that cabins were available here, as this a perfect place for a family vacation. The wooded area is lush and green, overlooking this amazing coastline. 5.00 for parking, and then you are set to explore. We arrived on a day that was crisp and cool, not many people out and about. It seemed like we were alone in the vast state park. I would have loved to spend the entire day here, but made the best of it by taking a short hike along the coast. Amazing scenery in a tranquil setting. It doesn't get better than this. read more
First time visit to this park and I am impressed. I really love the Oregon coast and this is a really awesome beach. I took the 2.5 mile one way hike out to the end of the cape. It's a bit downhill on the way, so that obviously means uphill on the way back. The first 2/3 of the trail is very well maintained and pretty smooth. The last 1/3 gets a little rough with tree roots and a couple of muddy spots. I was a little disappointed with the view at the end of the trail. It's not a big area and you aren't really right at the end, so the view is basically west and south, can't see north from the end. The beach is nice and flat. I was a bit tired after the hike, so didn't explore too much of the park. Didn't look at the campground, so don't know about that. There are some tables and a couple of picnic shelters in the day use area. I think this is a fee park, so $5 to use it. read more
I always made fun of people who take their kids to the same place all the time...till I had kids and realized that having a "go to" vacation spot isn't bad...especially at Cape Lookout! I love the easy beach access, campfires allowed on the beach, camping spots in the woods, clean bathrooms, available yurts (if you buy them 9 months out) on reserveamerica.com Just did the 5 mile Cape hike with the family...it was gorgeous hiking on the capes edges (hold on to your kids hands!) But maybe a little long for the 4 year old girl who had to be carried the last uphill mile. Discovered the excellent and free Jr. Rangers program put on by the Oregon State Parks Rangers...beach, campfires, hiking, star gazing, time spent unplugged (sketchy cell service except on Verizon) with the family...what's not to like? Only downside was it's always packed in the summer. Use my strategy to book weekends months early and you won't be disappointed! read more
8 years ago
My family enjoys beach trips, but this place tops all the previous experiences . We don't like the tourist areas , so we always look for new places, that's not crowded, especially on hot days in Portland. I am glad that we found this amazing Park, that has it all, picnic tables, nice trail to walk, and beach access. In addition to camping area . We only used the day area this time. Hopefully we camp there soon. read more
Beautiful place to have a wedding reception! The gazebo was easily turned into a twinkling little life of heaven and the view... well the view is breathtaking! There are bathrooms close by and there are cute little cabins that you can rent, I think that would be a super fun family get-away for a weekend! The only complaint I have is the darn mosquitoes! read more
I highly recommend camping here in the off season as well as the busy season. Two different experiences, both are enjoyable. So much to explore around the area, don't forget the kids bikes when camping. Great campground to let the kids ride around when you want to just chill for a little. Restrooms are nicely maintained, firewood on site for purchase (even in the off season). Make sure when you book your campsite you pay attention to the weather, some of the campsites are extremely close to the dunes and at times massive waves can hit up and over the dune bringing sand and water. It's better to book a site a bit further back into the campground IMO but do what you prefer. Just use caution and pay attention to the forecast when camping at this location. Enjoy! read more
I haven't camped here, but the views are amazing. I think you have to spend a bit of time here to fully enjoy it. Look over at the waves crashing against the cliffs - it's like a moving painting. The hiking trail is a must, so make sure you come prepared. It felt like a long hike because of the anticipation, but it's really nothing. Just be aware of the hike back. read more
9 years ago
$5 for a day parking pass, I have never camped here but love to come spend the day with family. This beach is so unique, the coastline is active so each time you visit there are new things to discover, it is very easy to find fish, crabs, starfish and lots of shells. There are lots of climbable rocks so you get a workout and some great photo ops. To me this beach is so fun and has a very family friendly feeling, everyone watches out for each other. They have numerous bbq's, picnic table and all with a view! read more
5 years ago
8 years ago
Hiked the Cape Lookout Trail started at 7 am. Was only one out there - 2 hours later the masses began arriving. 1:15 each way. About 20-30 minutes of the trail was traversing over/around roots or mud. Not too bad in mid-July. Remainder of trail is relatively flat and easy. If you go early and get a clear, sunny morning - this will be the best thing you did that day. Trail mostly through heavily wooded areas and along cliff's edge on your way our to the westernmost point - reminds me of Big Sur. There is a bench at the end of the path. My favorite hike within an OR State Park - and I've recently completed several others. If you can catch a sunny morning - this is a must do. read more
So, first of all I need to address the picture issues with the Cape Lookout reviews. All of the pictures for Cape Lookout (at least Pictures 1-6) are actually, in fact, pictures of Cape Meares. Cape Meares is here: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=45.486469,+-123.978192&sll=45.486478,-123.97821&sspn=0.001337,0.002411&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=14 Cape Lookout is here: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=45.337560,+-124.006441&sll=45.486469,-123.978192&sspn=0.042784,0.077162&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=14 ...about 25 minutes south of Cape Meares: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=45.486454,+-123.978299&daddr=Cape+Lookout+Headland+State+Park,+Tillamook,+OR+97141&geocode=FXYRtgIdxT2c-A%3BFazdswId7Bqc-CkHkDvkg9jqVDEyWcfy73WdAw&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=45.414705,-123.953085&sspn=0.171353,0.308647&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=12 They are two completely separate places. If you go to Cape Lookout: http://www.yelp.com/biz/cape-lookout-state-park-tillamook ...looking for the Cape Meares Lighthouse: http://www.yelp.com/biz/cape-meares-lighthouse-oceanside ...you're going to be terribly disappointed. If you hike the 2+ miles out to the end of Cape Lookout looking for Cape Meares Lighthouse, you'll not only be disappointed, but probably pissed. Here's an easy way to remember it: if you want to see a lighthouse and don't want a (really beautiful) hike, go to Cape *Meares*. If you want to go for a really beautiful hike and don't care about a lighthouse, go to Cape *Lookout*. Now that that is taken care of, on to the review. Cape Lookout is absolutely amazing. From the parking area you have three choices: (1) hike south down the hill to the beach north of Cape Lookout (1.8 miles one way); (2) hike west out on Cape Lookout to its end (2.4 miles one way); or (3) hike north down the hill to the beach (and campsite) north of Cape Lookout (2.3 miles one way). Unless you're looking to go camping, choose #2--you'll not be disappointed. The hike is 2.4 miles out (and of course another 2.4 miles back). For the majority of the way you hike along the side of a sheer dropoff down 200-300 feet to the Pacific Ocean. Incredible in its truest sense. There is a plaque that you'll miss if you're not looking for it that marks a place where a plane and its crew crashed during WWII: http://www.salem-news.com/articles/april062009/wilbur_perez_passes_4-5-09.php ...into the (south) side of the Cape. The views are absolutely spectacular. The trail is mostly flat and you criss-cross from the south to the north side of the cape as you go out. At the end, there is a small bench to sit on and rest for the hike back. Go here. Take the hike. Bring some food and water. Take an afternoon. It's phenomenal. UPDATE: Right, so after all the work of hyperlinking the google maps links to where the two capes are, Yelp won't let them work. Shit. read more
I LOVE this park! They have a few different trails to choose from and they are all wonderful with spectacular views of the towering trees and the coast. Even if it is foggy out it's a nice hike and the fog in the trees looks beautiful. I took so many gorgeous photos on our hikes through here people didn't believe me that I hadn't used any filters! There are port-a-potties in the parking area, too. The trails were relatively easy to traverse with normally wide paths, too. Keep your eye out for the big banana slugs, too! You don't want to accidentally step on one! read more
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