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Ryan Robinson takes you for a ride in the passenger seat of his RV, off the grid, deep among the dramatic rock formations of the Utah Desert. Robinson and friends chill by the fire, tell stories, and of course, rig a one of a kind highline over the Looking Glass Arch in Moab, UT.
Embark on an unforgettable RV journey along the awe-inspiring Oregon Coast! The Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon is a paradise for RVers, with an enticing blend of stunning vistas, rich history, and one-of-a-kind experiences. From majestic lighthouses to delicious local cuisine, this famous route offers something for everyone. Our family had the thrill of exploring the entire Oregon Coast in our RV, and we were amazed by the region's beauty and charm. In this article, we've crafted the ultimate Oregon Coast road trip itinerary, featuring must-see scenic viewpoints and unique activities that will make your RV adventure one to remember!
Stop 1: Astoria, Oregon: A Historical Gateway
The Astoria Column
Begin your Oregon coast RV road trip in the charming historic town of Astoria, nestled along the Columbia River. This town is rich in history and offers unique attractions to explore.
Fort Clatsop at Lewis and Clark National Historic Park
History buffs will appreciate a visit to Fort Clatsop, where Lewis and Clark wintered at the end of their long expedition. This reconstructed fort offers a glimpse into the explorers' lives and the challenges they faced during their harsh winter stay. Check the park's schedule for daily activities, such as musket-firing demonstrations, and let your young adventurers participate in the free Junior Ranger program to earn a badge.
Stop 2: Seaside, Oregon: Coastal Charm and Scenic Beauty
Continue your journey south to Seaside, a delightful coastal town known for its charm, quaint shops, and stunning views.
Ecola State Park
Take a short drive to Ecola State Park, famous for its epic ocean overlooks and scenic hiking trails. Movie buffs will recognize the park as a filming location for the classic movie "The Goonies." While the park is a fantastic spot for tide pooling, note that the narrow road to access the beach is not suitable for RVs or oversized trucks.
Cannon Beach
Just a short drive from Seaside, Cannon Beach is home to the majestic Haystack Rock, a must-see landmark and photographer's dream, especially at sunset. After a day of exploration, sample delicious Oregon beer at Pelican Brewing. Our favorite was the Kiwanda Cream Ale.
Stop 3: Newport, Oregon: Lighthouses and Marine Life
As you continue south, the town of Newport offers a variety of unique natural attractions.
Yaquina Bay Lighthouse and Devil's Punchbowl State Natural Area
Visit the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse and take a tour of the lightkeeper's house to learn about the area's history. While there, don't miss the fascinating Devil's Punchbowl, a unique rock formation where ocean tides create a mesmerizing swirling effect at high tide.
Oregon Coast Aquarium
The Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport is a fun stop for families, featuring vibrant tide pool exhibits and a captivating walk-through aquarium tunnel. It's a great place to learn about the local marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
Just a short drive from Newport, the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is home to the Yaquina Head Lighthouse. This area is a favorite for tide pooling, with park rangers available to help identify sea creatures. Visitors often have the opportunity to spot whales from the shore, adding to the experience. Ranger tours and a Junior Ranger program make this an excellent educational stop for the whole family.
Stop 4: Yachats, Oregon: Natural Wonders
As you venture further south, you'll encounter increasingly rural areas with must-see overlooks that will take your breath away.
Cape Perpetua
Cape Perpetua is one of the steepest and most awe-inspiring areas along the Oregon coast. Don't miss the epic viewpoints such as Devil's Churn, Cape Cove Beach, Thor's Well, and Spouting Horn. The rocky coastline is perfect for short hikes, and the visitor center provides excellent whale-watching opportunities. On the day of our visit, we got the thrill of watching whales close to the shoreline. The Junior Ranger program here is part of the Siuslaw National Forest, offering free educational activities for children.
Sea Lion Caves
One of the most unique attractions on the Oregon coast is the Sea Lion Caves. The caves are located inside a scenic steep ocean bluff, and are home to a large colony of playful sea lions that put on quite a show with their loud barking and funny antics. The views of the ocean and the nearby Heceta Head Lighthouse are simply spectacular.
Southern Oregon Coast: Hidden Gems and Overlooks
The central and southern coast of Oregon is a paradise for beach rock formations, with stunning rock arches and sea caves just begging to be explored. The following are scenic roadside stops along the Pacific Coast Highway you won’t want to miss.
Stop 5: Bandon Beach
Bandon Beach is home to some of the most intriguing rock formations along the Oregon coast. The wind-sculpted rocks and quiet beaches offer a tranquil yet surreal landscape perfect for exploring without the crowds sometimes found at other viewing areas. Don't miss the unique wizard's hat rock formation!
Stop 6: Meyer's Creek Beach Viewpoint
Meyer's Creek Beach Viewpoint offers panoramic views of the coastline and numerous sea caves to explore. The combination of rugged cliffs and deep blue water creates a picturesque setting that will leave a lasting impression.
Stop 7: Humbug Mountain State Park
Humbug Mountain State Park is another scenic gem, boasting stunning ocean cliffs and lush forests. The park offers hiking trails with spectacular views of the coastline, making it a must-stop for outdoor enthusiasts.
Stop 8: Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
Conclude your Oregon RV road trip at the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, known for its dramatic rock arch formations and lush coastal forests. The scenic viewpoints along this stretch of highway are often compared to California's Big Sur, but with the added bonus of fewer crowds.
Embarking on an RV adventure along the Oregon Pacific Coast Highway promises an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking natural wonders, fascinating historical landmarks, and delicious local cuisine. From the panoramic vistas atop the Astoria Column to the enchanting tide pools at Yaquina Head, each stop along Oregon's Highway 101 offers something unique for every RVer. Trace the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, marvel at the rugged beauty of the coastline, and enjoy the local flavors that make this route a truly memorable RV trip.
About Scott and Vanessa RussellScott, Vanessa, and their 14-year-old daughter have traveled in their RV for 9 years. They have worked and homeschooled on the road through 42 states so far. They blog about RVing tips and travel destinations www.TheAdventureDetour.com. They are also RV content creators @theadventuredetour on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. They love connecting with fellow RVers, so be sure to reach out to them and say hi!
Scott, Vanessa, and their 14-year-old daughter have traveled in their RV for 9 years. They have worked and homeschooled on the road through 42 states so far. They blog about RVing tips, travel destinations, and the RV lifestyle at www.TheAdventureDetour.com. They are also RV content creators @theadventuredetour on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.
