Nehalem Bay State Park — Attraction in Tillamook

The camping in the RV and yurt side were beautifully manicured sites. They had access to water and restrooms were close. We camped in the horse camp side. It was like the stepchild section. Located at the very backside and clearly was not addressed like the other sections of the park. Dry brush, no water receptors close, the water faucet had to be shared with not one, or two camp sites, but multiple camp sites. Fortunately we had more then one 100 ft long hose, we had to connect 2 or 3 hoses together to bring water to the horses. And we had to disconnect after each use and coil the hoses back to our camp site. There was only one trash receptor that was located so far away that we could not walk out trash to the bin, we had to drive to it. The camp is "Not" Handicap Friendly. Being disabled I was substantially challenged with getting to the restroom or the porta potty . The porta potty was closer, however after a week of all the people using them ( 4 huts/units) they became substantially full, were baking in the heat, and the ran out of toilet paper. We were camping for 14 days, but due to the lack of professionalism of some of the park staff AND no ADA support, AND the lack of real security, I left several days earlier. We were not loud, or mean, or nasty people. However we were treated with disrespect by some of the park staff, (they were not park rangers) . One male park staff did not realize a 9 year old and a 5 year old had an adult watching them, and he yelled at the 9 year old from the parking lot down to the beach front, barking that the 9 year old had better break down the stacks of drift wood the two children had used to make a pretend fort. As the park staff bellowed his view or made up rule at the child, I was trying to get up to address the mans inappropriate and unprofessional barking, but because he did not bother to walk over to the children and instead yelled at them, he over looked protocol and did not address the guardian of the children. He frightened the children, made them cry and dislike those employed as park staff. The lack of professionalism was to much, and then one of our not so cheap feed bags was stolen. And that was not treated with respect by the park staff. It must have been a fluke, the treatment and lack of professionalism, because this had never been like this before. However the lack of ADA compliance is an issue. I am currently able to ambulate, but I am challenged with walking long distances. The restrooms and showers were too far away, and the substantial pain I endured was more than I could take, So I left my family and friends earlier then planned. They stayed the rest of our planned stay. The combination of all that we experienced for almost 2 weeks, left a lingering distaste, one that influenced me to leave this review . Most likely I will not camp at this horse again, nor will I leave positive reviews, or even suggest my family and friends...

Nehalem Bay State Park is a popular coastal state park located on the northern Oregon coast, near the town of Manzanita. It offers a combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and camping facilities, making it a favorite destination for visitors.

What It Contains: Beaches: The park features expansive sandy beaches along the Pacific Ocean, ideal for beachcombing, picnicking, and relaxing by the water.

Campgrounds: The park has a well-equipped campground with over 50 full-hookup RV sites, tent sites, and yurts, offering options for campers of all preferences.

Nature Trails: Multiple hiking and biking trails wind through the park, including forested areas and trails leading to the beach or around Nehalem Bay.

Nehalem Bay Pier: A historic fishing pier where visitors can fish, enjoy scenic views, or just relax.

Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to diverse bird species and other wildlife, especially around the bay and marsh areas.

Water Activities: Opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and crabbing in Nehalem Bay.

Boat Launches: Facilities for launching small boats and kayaks.

Wildlife Habitats: Includes marshes and tidal flats that support various bird species such as herons, egrets, and shorebirds.

Play Areas: Playgrounds and picnic areas for families.

Why It Is Famous: Scenic Coastal Location: Its stunning setting along the Pacific Ocean and Nehalem Bay provides picturesque views and a tranquil environment.

Diverse Recreational Opportunities: From beachcombing and fishing to hiking and wildlife observation, the park offers activities for all outdoor enthusiasts.

Camping Experience: Known for its well-maintained campgrounds with a variety of options, making it a popular spot for family vacations and extended stays.

Birdwatching and Nature: The park's rich birdlife and natural habitats attract birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Proximity to Other Attractions: Near the charming towns of Manzanita and Nehalem, as well as close to other coastal parks and hiking trails.

Part of Oregon’s Coastal Heritage: The park reflects the natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle characteristic of the Oregon coast.

Additional Insights: The park is open year-round, with peak visitation in summer.

Facilities include restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and bike rentals.

The scenic views and outdoor recreation make it a favorite for both locals and tourists seeking to experience Oregon’s...

Thought I would do a winter review of this amazing destination... Hundreds of sites = paved and easy to park Shade or no shade spots with ample parking ops Clean hook-ups with night lights on each station Dishwashing drain pits scattered throughout the sites The BATHROOMS...I cannot stress enough how these are destination bathrooms...the new ADA facilities nearest to the C20+ block need their own review site..list includes they are heated, they are the cleanest I have ever seen, soap provided, the space in each individual stall is ample, the dishwashing stations have immediate hot water...and I have to say again as I camp in 40 degree weather here - they are heated... Beach is a short walk to miles of wet sand or dune sand if you wish...sunsets are as I have seen in pictures for years...and the wildlife is right there for you - so be wary if your dogs are off leash.. Dump stations are easy to access... Late fall is an amazing time to be here as there are five campers in the nearby camping streets with dozens empty all around us...a dream should you stay for an extended time - which I can see all of these campers are doing... If you are a camper that is using the ADA - site C21 is a dream for you - across from the new bathrooms, sunrise directly onto your site and the walkway is lit right up to the doors, there are two sites a couple feet closer but this one keeps you out of the walkways everyone uses to get there...plus this is the only site with extra extra blacktop for stuff...

As a side note - this is the only park I have seen with that extensive of a recycle separation area - ALL of the dumpsters are seven feet tall and are of no threat to overflow..(down from the bathrooms in...