About EEL CREEK CAMPGROUND
Overview Eel Creek Campground sits among coastal shrubbery on the edge of the sandy dunes within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. The campground provides a peaceful and attractive atmosphere for hikers and birders. The most popular non-motorized trail here is the John Dellenback Dunes Trail, which guides hikers through the scenic dunes to the Pacific beach. This section of dunes features spectacular heights and stunning, expansive vistas. Recreation The John Dellenback Dunes Trail takes hikers on a 2.7-mile (one way) trek from a conifer forest across the open dunes to the beach at the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, hikers will be treated to expansive views of the surrounding landscape. This hike makes for an incredible workout, due to tall dunes and soft sand. Quality wildlife watching is also available at the campground. Facilities The campground is divided into a north loop and a south loop. Amenities include flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings. A campground host is available and an amphitheater sits between the two loops. This campground has 51 reservable sites. Natural Features Most sites are secluded and private due to dense shrubbery like rhododendrons and salal. Sites 7, 8, 42, and 43 are perched on the sand of the dunes. The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is known for its wind-sculpted sand dunes towering up to 500 feet above sea level. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (541) 271-6000. Nearby Attractions Visit Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, which features a historic lighthouse, camping, and hiking trails around Lake Marie. The Umpqua River Lighthouse stands on the site where the first lighthouse on the Oregon Coast was built in 1857. The current lighthouse dates back to 1890. Boating and fishing are available at Tenmile Lake and Eel Lake. Charges & Cancellations Campsites that are not occupied after 24 hours of arrival time will be considered as a "no show" and sites will be released for other
How to Get There
From 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.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 18 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 7)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to EEL CREEK CAMPGROUND
Heading to EEL CREEK CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for EEL CREEK CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for EEL CREEK CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233112) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to EEL CREEK CAMPGROUND?
From 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.
How do I contact EEL CREEK CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-271-6000.
References & Official Resources
