what to do in Florence/OR dunes (Reedsport, Winchester Bay: camping, live)

[zagyzebra]

My girlfriend and myself, two kids and two dogs are planning a long weekend camping trip to the Florence/OR dunes area. Kids are 12-year-old skateboarders. Adults are sun-loving recreational enthusiasts. Suggestions on dog-friendly places to hike, recreate, camp, eat and other insider tips on what to do and see? Should we base at a camp a few miles inland to avoid the ubiquitous fog and then visit the coast during the day? Insight from those who live and/or have experience in this area will be greatly appreciated!

[Imperial1904]

The dunes are really nice. Lots to do if you like off-roading and things like that. I've seen hikers and people on horseback.

I think it's illegal to camp out on the coast. There's atleast one camp site I've seen on the map but can't remember exactly where it is.

[seashelly]

There are several campgrounds located along the coast but check with Park Service about reservations because weekends are probably already full. For ATV-ing, try Horsfall Beach Campground or Winchester Bay. Reedsport has a skateboard park. Florence has sandboarding. Have fun!

[nocoldiron]

Which way are you driving in? If you are coming in from 126-stop at Mapleton at the sharp turn,there is a public dock behind Randy's Riverfront Market with lifejackets for those who wish to go swimming.It's the local kids swimming hangout in warm weather.Randy's is famous for their fried chicken-they have a pressure cooking deep fryer+they marinate and season it themselves.If you are coming from the south on 101-as you pass through Gardener and go up the big hill,turn at top of hill on Sparrow Hawk Road and follow it down to the ocean.Great area with miles of flat beaches that has very few people-mostly a couple of local ATV'rs.Florence does have a crab dock but the rain will reduce your chances on crabs.Bring lots of warm clothes-Florence is cool and windy days and cold at night.Lots of great little fishing lakes on 101 just south and north of town,all are stocked with trout.We like Winchester Bay so much,we go there even though we live just outside Florence-it's normally warmer and less windy.

[zagyzebra]

It's been a while since these posts, but I wanted to get back to y'all and say THANX!