Known for its beaches and rock formations, Bandon is a small town located along the southern Oregon coastline, on the mouth of the Coquille River. You'll find a selection of private and state-run campgrounds at which to make your home base while you enjoy the area's history, coastal scenery and outdoor activities. From golfing at world-class Bandon Dunes to crabbing and hiking in the area's state parks, you'll find it easy to maintain your active lifestyle while camping in this coastal Oregon destination.
Campgrounds
Bandon's temperate climate allows for year-round camping, though April through October remain the best months to visit. Bandon RV Park, near Historic Old Town, offers 45 full-hook-up sites and amenities that include laundry facilities and free heated showers. Head to the campground's beach for an afternoon of fishing or crabbing to catch yourself a healthy, seafood supper. The Bandon/Port Orford KOA offers full-length pull-through sites, as well as tent sites. Planned activities include summer pancake breakfasts served with fresh strawberries or blackberries. After a long day of hiking, you can soak your aching muscles in the 14-foot-long hot tub. Camping facilities can also be found in the many county and state parks nearby.
Beachcombing
Take a walk along Bandon's 15 miles of protected coastline and sandy beaches. Walking barefoot in the sand is good for the muscles in your feet and calves, so resist the temptation to walk along the flat surface at the water's edge and head for the higher, dryer sand. While walking, keep an eye out for agate, which is often found along these shores. Hike the 3.3-mile Beach Loop, which begins in Old Town and follows the beach past the craggy rock formations along the coast and returns along the streets atop the seaside cliffs. Bring your binoculars to get a closer look at the puffins that make these rocks their home. You'll see sea urchins of all types and other marine life as you explore tidepools along the beach.
Water Sports
Try windsurfing at Floras Lake, approximately 17 miles from Bandon, between the months of April and mid-September. Mornings are ideal for beginners or a good time to take a lesson, as the winds are gentler at this time. All the equipment you'll need, including wetsuits and booties, is available for rent on site. Kiteboarding is another popular sport on Floras Lake and instruction is available through Floras Lake Windsurfing & Kiteboarding. Bullards Beach State Park, 2 miles north of Bandon, offers three loops of campsites and 13 yurts, which allow for year-round camping. While camping here, take advantage of the Coquille River's excellent fishing and crabbing. Launch your canoe or kayak and paddle the leisurely waters of this scenic river.
Golfing
You might be surprised to discover that this small coastal community boasts three of America's top 100 golf courses according to Golf Digest. The three courses--Pacific Dunes, Bandon Dunes and Bandon Trail--are all part of the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, five minutes north of Bandon. The oldest of these three courses is Bandon Dunes, a par-72 course that offers you ocean views on nearly every hole. All three of these links-style courses will challenge your skills while providing you stunning scenic vistas of the ocean, pine forests and dunes of Oregon's wild coast.
Hiking and Biking
In Bullards Beach State Park, pedal the paved mile-long pathway to the beach and the Coquille River Lighthouse. After viewing this historic lighthouse, ride along the 4.5-miles of hard-packed sand along the edge of the surf. Between Bandon and Port Orford, you'll find 29 miles of true wilderness beach to hike. Cape Blanco State Park in Port Orford offers extra-large, sheltered campsites, and dozens of hiking trails and sights to see. History buffs will enjoy visiting the 59-foot historic Cape Blanco lighthouse located on the most westerly point in the continental United States.
Member Comments