Cape Lookout State Park

4.63

625 reviews

13000 WHISKEY CR RD W, TILLAMOOK, Oregon, 97141, United States

Scenic Views

Featured in:Beach Camping Oregon#1 Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Oregon#1 Best Campgrounds Oregon#2 +2 more

Quick Facts

377 ft

Price

$20 - $23/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

205 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Oregon State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

377 ft

Price

$20 - $23/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

205 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Oregon State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Cape Lookout State Park

$20.00 - $23.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fee ranges from $20 for tent sites without hookups to $23 for tent sites. Extra vehicle parking costs $7 per night.

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

5038424981

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What Campers Say

4.63

Top-Rated

Based on 625 reviews

866 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersbeachstaff

Some mention

noisecrowded

"User reviews frequently praise the park's proximity to the beach, well-maintained facilities, and variety of camping options. However, complaints about site privacy and occasional maintenance issues arise."

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Campground Map

13000 WHISKEY CR RD W, TILLAMOOK, Oregon, 97141, United States

Cape Lookout State Park

13000 WHISKEY CR RD W, TILLAMOOK, Oregon, 97141, United States

Driving directionsCape Lookout State Park is located 12 miles southwest of Tillamook Oregon. Upon entering Tillamook, follow the directional signs, sending you west on 3rd street.

Mixed accessibility. Driving from Tillamook is straightforward and preferable, while alternate routes such as coming in through Sand Lake involve curvy and slow roads, making it more challenging for RVs or trailers.

Nearby places

Tillamook (12 miles, approximately 15-minute drive).

Nearby supplies

Fuel, camping supplies, and groceries can be accessed in Tillamook, approximately a 15-minute drive from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Cape Lookout State Park

The park's personality shifts dramatically with the seasons, creating a year-round destination with ever-changing moods. Summer brings warm sunshine and bustling campgrounds filled with laughter and beach activities, while winter transforms the landscape into a dramatic showcase of nature's power, with spectacular storms occasionally prompting temporary closures. Throughout the year, mornings often greet campers with mystical coastal fog that gradually lifts to reveal sparkling ocean views, while evening dew settles quietly among the campsites.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 12% in OR

Warm, sunny and lively beach/trail use in summer; facilities support high-season stays.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall offers fewer crowds while facilities remain more available than winter.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring migration enables whale watching; milder crowds and active trails make it appealing.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Winter brings peace but possible closures and limited accessibility reduce overall experience.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: No specific date ranges for peak season pricing.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, though partial or full closure is possible from October through March due to winter weather conditions. Seasonal beach restrictions apply from March 15 - September 15 during the western snowy plover nesting season.
Current Alerts: Closures are expected starting late spring 2025 for park improvements. Winter storms may lead to partial or full closures between October and March.

About Cape Lookout State Park

Perched on the dramatic Oregon coastline, Cape Lookout State Park beckons adventurers with its stunning beachfront camping experience. Whether you're pitching a tent steps from the sand, gathering with friends at spacious group sites, or seeking comfort in cozy cabins and distinctive yurts, this beloved destination offers the perfect basecamp for coastal exploration. Families return year after year, drawn by the park's seamless blend of accessible amenities and untamed natural beauty.

Cape Lookout State Park accommodates a wide range of camping styles, from primitive hiker/biker sites to deluxe cabins and yurts. Group sites are currently closed, but the campground supports a mix of tent and RV camping.

Historical SignificanceThe timeless appeal of this coastal sanctuary lies in its pristine natural setting, where generations of families have created lasting memories against the backdrop of Oregon's magnificent shoreline.

Weather and SeasonsThe park's personality shifts dramatically with the seasons, creating a year-round destination with ever-changing moods. Summer brings warm sunshine and bustling campgrounds filled with laughter and beach activities, while winter transforms the landscape into a dramatic showcase of nature's power, with spectacular storms occasionally prompting temporary closures. Throughout the year, mornings often greet campers with mystical coastal fog that gradually lifts to reveal sparkling ocean views, while evening dew settles quietly among the campsites.

ElevationNestled at sea level where forest meets shore, the campground offers easy access to both beach adventures and coastal exploration.

Natural Features and SceneryWake to the rhythmic symphony of Pacific waves crashing against the shore, a natural soundtrack that defines the Cape Lookout experience. The campground artfully balances sheltered, tree-lined sites that provide privacy and wind protection with open areas that capture sweeping ocean vistas. Ancient coastal forests frame the camping areas, while just steps away, endless stretches of sandy beach invite morning walks, tide pool discoveries, and sunset contemplation. This remarkable convergence of forest and sea creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.

Geological RegionCoastal Region

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in is available at the entrance booth.

Check-out

Check-out is at 1:00 PM

Stay Limit

No specific information provided but reservations are unavailable past February of 2025 due to park improvements.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each campsite fee includes parking for one vehicle. Campers may have a total of two vehicles per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features three loops (A, B, and C) near the beach, and Loop D for more secluded camping. Sites are a mix of exposed and shaded areas separated by foliage.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on the Oregon State Parks website.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not mentioned explicitly, but reservation system details suggest limited flexibility.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are available on the Oregon State Parks website.

AccessibilityTwo campsites and one cabin are accessible to campers with disabilities. Nine yurts and one cabin have ramp access but are not ADA-compliant.

Site SizeSites are generally medium-sized, accommodating up to a large tent or small RV. Specific site complaints include uneven ground or small space.

PrivacyPrivacy varies widely. Loops A and B are described as having little to no privacy, while D loop offers more secluded spots with natural greenery.

Total Campsites205 campsites

Recommended SitesSites in Loop D (east side) are noted for shade and privacy. Sites close to the beach (Loops A and B) are exposed and windy.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Activities you can enjoy

Cape Lookout State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing. The beach and trails are major attractions, with opportunities for beach bonfires and observing eagles. However, restrictions are in place during the snowy plover nesting season.

HikingThe park includes the Cape Lookout Trail, a 3-mile hike offering stunning views and opportunities for whale watching during migration. Other trails connect to the Oregon Coast Trail system.

BikingThe park provides biking opportunities, including access to the beach. One user mentioned spending 'a lot of time riding bikes on the beach and trails.'

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include numerous bird species, including bald eagles. One user reported seeing over 10 eagles during their stay.

Beach activitiesThe park offers a 5-mile stretch of sandy beach suitable for walking, wading, or relaxing. Beach bonfires are a highlight, and beach access is just a short walk from campsites.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe park hosts programs like the Junior Ranger Program and evening events at the amphitheater.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRaccoons are prevalent and known to raid campsites. Windy conditions are common near exposed sites. Visitors are advised to prepare for rain and bring tarps.

Active AlertsClosures are expected starting late spring 2025 for park improvements. Winter storms may lead to partial or full closures between October and March.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof food storage lockers are available in the hiker/biker camping area.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed at campsites and the beach but are subject to seasonal restrictions.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Generally quiet after hours, particularly in the off-season.

Emergency ServicesRanger Station contact number: 5038424981 is provided. Closest hospital and police station details are null.

Trash & RecyclingAll garbage must be brought to a central trash compactor near the registration booth. A recycling station is located beside the compactor.

Water FeaturesDirect walking access to a 5-mile stretch of beach. Nearby tide pools and caves are accessible during low tide.

Camp HostCamp hosts are described as friendly and helpful by numerous reviewers.

Weather at Cape Lookout State Park

Reviews

4.6

625 reviews

Top-Rated

Cape Lookout State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews frequently praise the park's proximity to the beach, well-maintained facilities, and variety of camping options. However, complaints about site privacy and occasional maintenance issues arise.

Review Summaries

Based on 625 reviews

What Campers Love

- Proximity to the beach - Clean and well-maintained bathrooms and showers - Availability of firewood and ice on-site - Variety of camping accommodations, including pet-friendly options - Friendly...

Based on 625 reviews

Common Concerns

- Lack of privacy in certain loops, especially A and B - Noise during peak seasons - Maintenance issues like mold in bathrooms and broken showers - Campground layout making it difficult for larger...

Based on 625 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Reserve sites six months in advance to secure a spot. - Choose D loop for more privacy. - Bring bug spray for low-lying areas. - Prepare for windy conditions and morning dew.

Based on 625 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is noted for its popularity and crowding. Winter brings peace but may limit accessibility due to weather closures. Fall and spring offer a balance of fewer crowds and operational facilities.

Based on 625 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Beach bonfires are my favorite activity.' 'The cabins are the BEST part of the campground.' 'The showers at Cape Lookout were nice. They were each private with unlimited hot water.'

Based on 625 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Site C32: 'Massive tree anchoring the site, very little privacy.' - Site A24: 'Close to the beach entrance but in open space without trees.' - Site D69: 'Dishwater dump nearby, leading to frequent...

Based on 625 reviews

Accessibility Features

The rocky and steep path to the beach can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Accessible sites are available, but general accessibility to the beach is limited due to terrain.

Based on 625 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs must be on a leash throughout the park. The beach offers an off-leash area for dogs to play and swim. Incidents of off-leash dogs causing issues have been reported.

Based on 625 reviews

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