Nehalem Bay State Park

To my surprise, Nehalem Bay State Park is actually more beach than bay. I was expecting a big vast bay, and instead, I encountered a big vast beach full of sand dunes and brown sand. I want to go back again on a sunny day to walk the beach and absorb all of the beauty. The sizable camping grounds was mostly full and many people were out and about enjoying walks in the rain. And I started to have Air Stream Dreams!

Explore more at www.traveloregon.com … Set between the ocean and the bay, Nehalem Bay State Park is situated on a 4 mile-long sand spit.  Just 86 miles west of Portland along the north Oregon Coast, the park features a campground and two day-use areas for the whole family.  

The campground, set amongst a sea of shore pine, borders rolling dunes along the beach.  Walk over the dunes and you’re at the beach building sand castles, flying a kite or relaxing to the sound of the ocean.  Beach-combing produces special rewards – treasures that include agates, shells, and occasionally glass floats. 

A forested 1.8 mile long bike path provides a breathtaking view of the bay. You may see deer and elk grazing, a coyote crossing the road and a variety of birds.  Kayaking, crabbing, fishing and clamming are popular activities. 

Park features include a 2,400 foot airstrip that offers the unique opportunity of a fly-in camp.  A hiker-biker camp offers sites for those walking and riding bikes. Yurts are available as an alternative camping experience. Primitive horse campsites offer horse enthusiasts camping with several miles of trails and beach to explore.  A horse concession is located in the beach-side day-use area during the summer months.