By Shirley Robinson
I am shocked that it has been a year since our last Blog post. We are back. The past year held many adventures, mostly to the Oregon Coast, our hometown. The Oregon Coast, from Florence to Bandon, is where we spent our formative years learning to camp. While it is rainy most of the year, the late spring, through summer, and early Fall can hold some of the most amazing days.
Camping from young kids we learned that watching the weather isn't nearly as important as having the right gear. A good, sturdy tent for the rain and wind as well as dry firewood and somewhere to put your food away so the critters don't get into it. Basic stuff, but we learned mostly through trial and error. Especially in those early years when all our gear was cheap unless it had been gifted to us or a hand-me-down. I recommend checking out Nesika, Smith River Falls, Eel Lake (Tugman), and Sunset Bay for camping. All of these spots have one thing in common that was crucial for me as a kid when we went out camping, water. Nesika and Smith River are very nice as they are in the land a bit and the weather tends to be warmer, even hot in the summertime. There are big rocks that get nice and warm that lead right into the water. Access points are easy to find and usually not too hard to walk into. Nesika has camp spots right on the river and a big family swimming spot. Smith River campground is on the river as well but only a couple of the sites are actually on the river. The best place to swim is along the road and at the Falls, this spot can get a bit crowded in the summer, which can be fun if that is what you are looking for. Eel Lake camping can be found at William M. Tugman State Park. This is a pretty busy campground and advanced reservations are encouraged. There is a huge lake that makes for some awesome fishing either from the dock or from a favorite spot along the bank of the lake. There are a couple of playgrounds for the little ones and a popular swimming hole that features a big log to jump off. Lots to do at this site and everywhere you look is gorgeous. Sunset Bay (pictured above) has a beach access campground next to one of the most popular Coos County beaches. The campground is across the street from the actual beach, and you can't see the beach from the campground, but the beach is just a short walk away. This beach features a coastal hiking trail with some of the most breathtaking coastal views you will ever see. If hiking isn't your thing, there is a nice picnic area with tons of space and tables and also tide pools. Every time I am there I see SUP and kayakers out in the surf. It is probably one of my favorite beaches that I have ever visited.
The best parts of Oregon can be seen when out camping at these great spots. If you are quiet enough tons of wildlife will be by to check you out just remember to plan, bring good gear and leave your site better than you found it.
Happy Camping!
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