Nestled along Oregon’s Central Coast lies a mesmerizing wonder: the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Stretching from Florence to Coos Bay, this otherworldly landscape of sand, forest, and ocean captivates adventurers with its ethereal beauty. Oregon’s temperate coastal sand dunes are a get place for activities ranging from camping, hiking, walking, horseback riding, or riding a dune buggy (our favorite).
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about the Oregon dunes from where the best dunes are located, the riding areas, hiking trails, and also some additional ideas for a great adventure.
Overview of the Oregon Dunes
The best place to experience the dunes is on the Oregon coast in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Dating back well over 100,000 years, this expansive dune complex spans approximately 40,000 acres, making it the most extensive dune system on the West Coast of North America.
As you traverse the dunes, you can encounter a rich variety of wildlife, including seabirds, sea lions, gray whales, bald eagles, and Roosevelt elk. Additionally, the area provides ample opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers.
Best Time to Go to the Sand Dunes in Oregon
The best time to visit the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this period, the weather is generally mild and conducive to outdoor activities such as hiking, sandboarding, and exploring the dunes. Additionally, springtime brings blooming wildflowers and animals.
Summer offers longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures, perfect for enjoying water activities. It’s important to note that the Oregon Coast can experience fog and cooler temperatures year-round, so visitors should come prepared with layers and check weather forecasts before planning their trip.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Map
Address: 855 Highway Ave, Reedsport, OR 97467
Digital Recreation Day Pass: $5
Driving distance from Salem: 2h 36m
Driving distance from Portland: 3h 13m
Driving distance from Eugene: 1h 38m
Oregon Dunes ATV/Dune Buggy Areas
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area boasts towering sand dunes reaching heights of 500 feet above sea level, sculpted by the wind. Thrill-seekers can enjoy riding through expansive open dunes or exploring designated sand routes surrounded by coastal vegetation like shore pine, waxmyrtle, huckleberry, and salal.
Approximately half of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is open to motorized vehicles. Here are three primary areas offering riding opportunities:
North OHV Riding Area Map – Siltcoos to South Jetty
Middle OHV Riding Area Map – Umpqua Dunes
South OHV Riding Area Map – Horsfall – Spinreel
Off Highway Vehicle Rental Options
Dune Bug ATV Rentals
Behind Myrtlewood Factory at Hauser and Hwy 101
North Bend, OR
541-660-5300
www.oregondunebugrentals.comSpinreel Dune Buggy & ATV Rentals
67045 Spinreel Rd
North Bend, OR 97459
541-759-3313
www.ridetheoregondunes.comSteve’s ATV Rental
68512 US-101
North Bend, OR 97459
844-278-3837
www.stevesatvrentals.com
Oregon Dunes Guided Tours
Oregon Dunes Guided tours offer you a curated and informative way to explore the stunning Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Led by experienced guides, these tours provide an opportunity to delve into the rich history, unique ecosystem, and natural beauty of the dunes while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for participants.
Tour options like the group dune buggy rides can be much less expensive compared to renting an individual ATV or dune buggy. Park ranger talks are also available throughout the summer season, ranger-led discussions are offered regularly at the Oregon Dunes Day Use Area and Cape Perpetua Visitor Center. Guided hikes are typically scheduled on weekends, while Jr. Ranger evening programs take place at various sites across the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. They also have interpretive exhibits and very friendly and helpful staff!
Whether it’s cruising along the sandy terrain in a dune buggy or embarking on a leisurely hike through the dunes, these guided tours offer a memorable and immersive adventure for tourists of all ages and interests.
85366 Highway 101
Florence, OR 97439
Phone: 541-997-8087Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Office
855 Highway 101
Reedsport, Oregon 97467
541-271-6000Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed on federal holidays.
Oregon Dunes Hiking Trails
1. John Dellenback Trail
The John Dellenback Trail in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area offers a scenic hiking experience with stunning views of sand dunes, coastal forests, and beach. It’s a challenging trail that spans approximately 5.5 miles round trip and provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and immersion in the area’s unique ecology.
2. Oregon Dunes Loop Trail
Located in the Oregon Dunes Overlook and Day Use area, south of Florence, this wheelchair-accessible trail features breathtaking vistas of the dunes and coastline, making it perfect for all skill levels. Unfortunately dogs are not allowed on this one.
3. Siuslaw River South Jetty Trail
The Siuslaw River South Jetty trail provides a scenic pathway along the beach. The southern stretch where the Siuslaw River meets the Pacific Ocean in Florence boasts the unspoiled South Jetty. Situated at the tip of the jetty, this trail offers stunning views of both the river and ocean, with beautiful beaches flanking either side. While off-road vehicle riding is a popular activity further south along the jetty through the sand dunes, these vehicles are not permitted on the beach areas, ensuring they won’t be encountered during this hike.
4. Tahkenitch National Recreation Trail
This scenic trail offers a moderate hiking experience with stunning views of the dunes and access to the beach, Tahkenitch Creek, and Threemile Lake.
Oregon Dunes Horseback Riding
There are a few options for horsebacking riding on or near the oregon coastal dunes. C&M Stables provides horseback riding adventures amidst the stunning landscapes of the Oregon Coast, situated conveniently north of Florence and south of Sea Lion Caves. Riders of all skill levels can enjoy a range of experiences tailored to beginners, intermediates, and advanced riders alike.
90241 Highway 101
Florence, Oregon 97439
(541) 997-7540
Open All Year – 7 days a week, 10 am – 5 pm
1-HOUR RIDES
– 1-3 people – $90.00 per person
– 4-9 people – $85.00 per person1.5-HOUR RIDES
– 1-3 people – $105.00 per person
– 4-9 people – $100.00 per person
Sandboarding at Sand Master Park
Experience the thrill of sandboarding at Sand Master Park, the world’s first sandboard park nestled in the scenic Lane County near Florence on the Oregon Coast. With 40 acres of expertly sculpted sand dunes offering slopes suitable for beginners to advanced riders, just minutes away from the Pacific Ocean. Join a sandboarding lesson, rent sandboards or sleds, embark or explore the art of sand sculpting and glass blowing.
4981 U.S. Hwy. 101
Florence, Oregon 97439541-997-6006
RV and bus parking facilities are available.
Campgrounds Near the Oregon Coast
Looking for a campground location for exploring the dunes? If you are looking to camp along the Oregon coast near the dunes check out our post on the best Oregon Coast campgrounds. Harbor Vista County Park, Sunset Bay State Park Campground, and Umpqua Lighthouse State Park are good options with dune access but check our map and guide for more details on each, alternatives, and how to book them.