Sandlake, Oregon
Tucked between Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwanda along the Three Capes Scenic Route is an area best known for its sand. While there is a grocery store and country inn there, Sandlake is beloved for its off-highway vehicles (OHV) fun. The Sand Lake Recreation Area covers 1,076 acres of open sand dunes, surrounded by the Siuslaw National Forest and adjacent to the Pacific Ocean.
Camping
There are three, fully equipped campgrounds, one dispersed campground and a day-use area geared to OHV users. Most weekends from May through September the campgrounds are booked solid, so try to schedule a visit during the week. The dunes extend from the woods to the ocean; making camp here is a true Northwest experience.
Sand Lake Estuary
Adjacent to Sand Lake Recreation Area, Sand Lake Estuary is an important ecosystem for many species of water fowl. The 900-acre estuary remains in its near-natural state, offering fishing, swimming, crabbing, kayaking, hiking and wildlife viewing. Access the estuary at Fisherman’s Day Use area near the Sandbeach OHV Campground.