The coastal lighthouses of Oregon are a great find for outdoor adventurers. The historic lighthouses dotting the coastline add charm and history to any RV trip. Many people stop to take in the sights and snap a photo at the picturesque buildings, but did you know you can also camp nearby several Oregon lighthouses? These special locations offer beachfront RV camping, putting you up close and personal with these wonders.
They can make the perfect setting for those who love hiking, history, and the beach all in one vacation. Here are three Oregon lighthouse state parks that are great for RV road trippers and lighthouse enthusiasts alike.
Three must-see lighthouse parks in Oregon
All three of these lighthouse parks are must-sees! You won’t want to miss out on the incredible views and rich histories.
1. Cape Blanco Lighthouse and Historic Hughes House
About 60 miles north of the California border, outside the town of Port Orford sits Cape Blanco State Park. This is the most western point of the west coast of the US and is home to the oldest standing lighthouse on the Oregon coast. At 245 feet above the sea, the light is visible 22 miles off the coast. The lighthouse has a unique Fresnel lens, which you can that can see on a guided tour that costs only $2.
Cape Blanco has ocean views, a visitor center, and an RV campground, along with a group campsite for those traveling with other friends and families. Visitors can hike, bike, picnic, view wildlife, fish, and ride horses along the park’s equestrian trails.
A yearly country music festival is held in the area so be sure to keep this in mind when planning your trip.
2. Coquille River Lighthouse
Just north of Bandon, Oregon, Bullards Beach State Park offers up RV camping by the ocean with scenic views of the historic Coquille River Lighthouse. Nestled among shore pines, visitors can explore the Coquille River Lighthouse, the mouth of the river, and the coastline. The lighthouse itself is open to visitors daily for visitors to learn about the building and the area.
There are over 100 full hookup sites for RVs within the park. If your family needs to spread out, both tent and yurt camping are available as well. Along with checking out the lighthouse and taking in the views, you can hike, bike, beach comb, fish, or ride horses on equestrian trails.
3. Umpqua River Lighthouse
Further north, the Umpqua Lighthouse State Park is just south of Winchester Bay. There is an overnight campground for RV and tent guests that will keep your family near nature and historical sites. The lighthouse itself is open to visitors and has a museum attached for tourists to enjoy. Built in 1855, the Umpqua River Light still stands today and can bring you back to a time when functioning lighthouses dotted the coast.
This site makes for a great backdrop for an RV vacation. It’s nestled within Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, and also has access to Lake Marie. Visitors can access this freshwater lake from the park for activities like swimming, boating, and fishing. The park also boasts several hike and bike trails.
The best time to visit the Oregon Coast
Every season brings new feelings and sights for visitors to the Oregon Coast. The summer months are typically the driest and the warmest. This brings in droves of visitors, looking to bask in the sun and take in the salty air. The winter season brings more storms but is perfect for those looking for peace, quiet, and solitude.
If you visit the coast between September and mid-October, you can miss the summer crowds but still experience the warmer weather. April is another beautiful month. Wildflowers are in full bloom and wildlife becomes active as the sun starts to shine more. Ultimately, the best time to visit comes down to personal preference!
Plan a lighthouse-centered road trip
Center your road trip around visiting these three parks, and you’ll be surprised what other fun you’ll find along the way. The Oregon coast is among the best drives in the country and boasts many outdoor activities for everyone. Happy travels!
