Last Updated on June 28, 2023
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a must-see destination for any UTV enthusiast. Spanning over 40,000 acres, the area is home to some of the most unique and diverse dune environments in the country.
Among these dunes, the Coos Bay sand dunes stand out as the largest and most popular for off-road driving.
The Coos Bay sand dunes are located just north of Coos Bay and North Bend, and stretch between Spinreel Campground and Horsfall Road. This area offers a variety of designated sand roads, dunes, and forests for riders to explore.
The added bonus of year-round beach access is a popular draw for many visitors. However, it’s worth noting that there is a midnight curfew in this area.
The Coos Bay sand dunes can be a little overwhelming for first-time visitors, as it can be easy to get lost among the seemingly endless expanse of sand. To help visitors navigate the area, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the main landmarks and access points.
The Horsfall dunes, located in the southern portion of the Coos Bay sand dunes, are identified by Horsfall and Horsfall Beach Campgrounds. Another popular landmark in this area is Boxcar Hill, although it’s not much of a hill anymore.
The northern portion of the dunes, commonly referred to as the Spinreel Dunes, is identified by the Spinreel Campground and day use facility located at the northernmost point of the dunes.
Hauser Sand Road is a crucial access point that links the northern and southern riding areas together. This road also provides access to the beach via Hauser Beach Trail and Sanders OHV Trail. If you’re looking to camp in the northern section of the Horsfall Dunes area, Hauser Road is your entry point.
Sand and Tires
One of the unique characteristics of the Coos Bay sand dunes is the softness of the sand. This is due to the high content of silica in the sand, which is formed by the erosion of nearby coastal cliffs.
The soft sand allows for easy riding and maneuverability, making the Coos Bay sand dunes a popular destination for UTV enthusiasts, but adequate tires should be used.
Because the sand in Coos Bay is known for being particularly soft, you’ll want to make sure you have tires with deep treads that can handle the loose sand. Many off-roaders in Coos Bay opt for sand tires, which are specifically designed for use in the dunes.
Sand Dune Areas
Another key aspect to navigating the dunes is understanding the layout. The Coos Bay Sand Dunes are split into two main areas: the Horsfall Dunes to the south and the Spinreel Dunes to the north.
The Horsfall Dunes are known for being more open and accessible, while the Spinreel Dunes are generally quieter and more secluded.
To get around the dunes, you’ll need to make use of the designated sand roads. These roads are maintained by the Forest Service and provide access to the different areas of the dunes.
Be sure to check a map or ask a ranger for guidance before heading out, as it can be easy to get lost in the vast expanse of the dunes.
Finally, it’s important to remember that the Coos Bay Sand Dunes are a protected area and you’ll need to have a permit to drive in the dunes.
Permits can be obtained from the Siuslaw National Forest office in Reedsport or the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area office in Reedsport. Be sure to read and understand all the rules and regulations before heading out to the dunes.
Getting there
To get to Coos Bay Sand Dunes from the nearest town of North Bend, take Oregon 42 West and turn left onto Newmark Ave.
Continue onto Broadway St and turn left onto Boice Lane. Turn right onto N Bayshore Dr and continue onto Coos River Hwy. Turn left onto Hauser Depot Rd and follow the signs to the dunes. The drive takes about 15 minutes.
If you’re coming from the city of Eugene, take I-5 South and exit onto Oregon 42 West towards Coos Bay. Follow the same directions as above, the drive takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
If you’re taking public transportation, take the Coos Bay Shuttle from Eugene to the North Bend Transit Center and then take the Coos Bay-North Bend Local Bus Route 4 to Hauser Depot Rd. From there, it’s a short walk to the dunes.
Coos Bay Sand Dunes RV Campgrounds
Sea and Sand RV Park
Sea and Sand RV Park is located on the beach in Coos Bay, Oregon and offers a variety of amenities for RVers.
The park has full hook-up sites, as well as tent sites, and amenities such as bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities and a playground for children. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby sand dunes, fishing, and crabbing. The park is open all year round.
The distance from Coos Bay, Oregon to Sea and Sand RV Park is approximately 6.5 miles
Horsfall Beach RV Park
Horsfall Beach RV Park is a great option for those who want to be close to the sand dunes in Coos Bay. The park offers full hook-up sites, as well as tent sites and amenities such as bathrooms, showers and laundry facilities.
Visitors can also enjoy the nearby beach and fishing. The park is open all year round.
Spinreel RV Park
Spinreel RV Park is located in the heart of the Coos Bay Sand Dunes and offers a variety of amenities for RVers.
The park has full hook-up sites, as well as tent sites, and amenities such as bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities and a playground for children.
Visitors can also enjoy the nearby sand dunes, fishing and crabbing. The park is open all year round.
Sunset Bay State Park
Sunset Bay State Park is located on the coast in Coos Bay, Oregon, and offers a variety of amenities for RVers.
The park has full hook-up sites, as well as tent sites, and amenities such as bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities and a playground for children.
Visitors can also enjoy the nearby beach, hiking trails, and fishing. The park is open all year round.
Read also: Sandboarding in Oregon
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