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Oregon Dunes
The Oregon
Dunes State Park
and Oregon Dunes
National Recreation
Area are among
the most unique
features of the
Oregon coast. Located
near the beautiful
coast, the sand
dunes in Oregon
are a favorite
tourist spot because
of the wide variety
of recreational
activities available
and the unexpected
beauty of the dunes.
Suited for outdoor
adventures, peaceful
camping or retreating,
or just enjoying
natural surroundings,
a trip to the Oregon
Dunes complete
any vacation to
the Oregon coast.
What are
the Oregon Dunes?
The Oregon dunes are a beautiful formation of shifting sand,
often referred to as the American Sahara. They are caused
by the extreme erosion and water evaporation over thousands
of years. The Oregon coast dunes stretch over forty miles
along the Oregon coast, beginning in the north with the Florence
Oregon sand dunes and ending in the south at the Coos Bay
dunes. The Oregon sand dunes are the largest coastal dunes
in North America. Rising to up to 500 feet above sea level,
this unusual formation is set against the backdrop of one
of the most beautiful coasts in the Northwest. From the rising
sand peaks to the island-like tree formations, the dunes in
Oregon are one of the most ecologically diverse features in
the United States. Combining shifting desert-type sands with
coastal waters, lakes, streams and forests, the Oregon coast
sand dunes are a must-see on any Oregon vacation.
Planning
a Trip to the
Dunes
Before planning a camping trip on the Oregon coast dunes,
make sure to check out the local rules and regulations, costs,
seasonal availability, and amenities. Also try to make reservations
if possible. Many sand campgrounds do not accept reservations
from October 1st to April 30th, and many sites require reservations
during the summer months. Plan ahead to make sure and get
the best camping site available. Check out the Internet websites
for each campground to check out the cost, availability, reservation
information, amenities and other particulars for each private
campsite.
Oregon
Dune Fest
The Oregon Dune Fest is an annual event that usually takes
place around the first week of August. This event is located
on the sand dunes in Winchester Bay. During the day, Dune
Fest has exciting racing and events for all ages, genders,
and skill levels, such as moto-cross racing, barrel racing,
dune drag racing, relay racing, and many more. Children can
get involved, too. A variety of activities are available during
the day just for children. One of the main activities for
children involves a treasure hunt and dig on the dunes. At
night, things heat up with concerts, dancing, and bonfires.
Local DJs are invited to spin their stuff and acclaimed rock
groups give a wild concert during the last night of the festivities.
Every year the Annual Charity ATV Auction is held, raising
money for various causes. More information about this year's
event can be easily found on the Internet.
Oregon
Dunes National
Recreation
Area
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area consists of the
sand dunes, coastal areas, rivers, lakes, streams, and forests
located in the forty-mile stretch on the Oregon coast. The
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a great place for
outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, sand boarding,
OHV use, and horseback riding. But the recreation area is
also home to more solitary and relaxing pursuits, such as
bird watching or trail walking. The Recreation Area is shelter
to many rare birds, such as endangered shore birds, osprey,
bald eagles, and egrets. The ecological diversity found in
the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area creates a perfect
sanctuary for many types of wildlife. Enjoy the conveniences
of the local campgrounds and Oregon coast dune access points.
Explore the natural wonder of the winding trails, and the
beauty coastal waters. Camping is also available in the Oregon
Dunes National Recreation Area. Campgrounds can be easily
searched on the Internet and can accommodate most of the average
vacation's camping needs. Campgrounds can be found that house
RV parking and hookups, showers, water hookups, traditional
tent camping, cabin camping, and nontraditional camping, such
as teepees and covered wagon camping.
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