Salmon Harbor Marina
A prime Oregon coast destination for RVers and boaters, offering waterfront camping and direct access to fishing and crabbing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm before the wind
Salmon Harbor Marina
Best Time
Calm before the wind
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A prime Oregon coast destination for RVers and boaters, offering waterfront camping and direct access to fishing and crabbing.
"The ability to just walk over to the boat and run out to fish or check the crab pots is my happy place. "
🎯 Pack for Wind!
Be prepared for strong winds, even on sunny days. Layers are key! :windblowingface:
🔌 RV & Boat Convenience
Marina spots have power & water for RVs, perfect for boaters. :electric_plug:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Orca Sightings
Pacific Ocean near Winchester Bay
Witness majestic orcas in their natural habitat, a truly unforgettable wildlife experience.
Fishing & Crabbing Access
Salmon Harbor Marina
Direct access to prime fishing and crabbing grounds from your boat.
Coastal Campground
Salmon Harbor Marina
Camp right on the water with RV sites offering convenient boat moorage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
RV & Boat Combo Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pack for Wind!
Be prepared for strong winds, even on sunny days. Layers are key! :windblowingface:
🔌 RV & Boat Convenience
Marina spots have power & water for RVs, perfect for boaters. :electric_plug:
🎣 Prime Fishing Spot
Ideal location for fishing and crabbing enthusiasts. :fishingpoleand_வத:
🏕️ Waterfront Camping
Enjoy camping with your boat docked nearby. :camping:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pack for Wind!
Be prepared for strong winds, even on sunny days. Layers are key! :windblowingface:
🔌 RV & Boat Convenience
Marina spots have power & water for RVs, perfect for boaters. :electric_plug:
🎣 Prime Fishing Spot
Ideal location for fishing and crabbing enthusiasts. :fishingpoleand_வத:
🏕️ Waterfront Camping
Enjoy camping with your boat docked nearby. :camping:
🐳 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for orcas and other marine life. :whale2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Salmon Harbor Marina offers a unique and convenient experience for boaters and RV campers, with direct ocean access and waterfront camping being major draws. While the location is praised, some visitors find the pricing a bit high and are bothered by generator noise. Despite these drawbacks, the appeal of fishing, crabbing, and the possibility of wildlife sightings keeps many returning.
"After our second stay I felt the need to upgrade my rating from 3 to 4 stars purely based on how much I enjoy having my boat in the water near my RV . The ability to just walk over to the boat and run out to fish or check the crab pots is my happy place. And the marina moorage spots all have a hose bib and electrical plug in, which saved my but when I killed my battery. I just grabbed a cord and plugged my charger in. Sweet! I still stand by my initial review below, but for me, it gets that 4th star for my own reasons.
As for what's here, it fits all my needs. A campground where I can moore my boat for fishing and crabbing. It's a tad overpriced for what's offered though. There are many forest service campgrounds at 17 to 18 a night that have flush toilet restrooms as the only amenity of the campground, so 25 is just a location fee I guess. I deffinetly felt there should be a significant discount to combine a campsite with boat moorage. The location is perfect. The concept is solid. As usual, the implementation of these commodities has been a bit muttled by the governing bodies that run it. Will I return, yes, as often as possible. I will overpay and like it. Location location location!
The only thing else was a lack of grass, or even sand, to make some tent friendly sites. I have friends that would love to join us and camp by our RV in their tents but they will not set up on asphalt or gravel."
Patrick Sink
"Five stars for camping on the water, one star for all the noisy generators. Seriously, if you close your eyes you'll think you're at a truck stop. I emailed the management suggesting they try designating one section as generator-free and see how it worked,, they didn't even have the courtesy to reply. Another issue is there are a lot of long term residents and some of them are pretty territorial. And some have too much crap spilling over into adjacent sites, and get angry when they have to move it. It's just not a peaceful atmosphere. Too bad. Every time I go there I feel like I want to stay a month. At first. By day 3 I'm ready to head to Walmart for some peace and quiet."
Gail Kapusnick
"We've stayed a month! The convenience of boat ramp, store, clean bathrooms and showers included along with 65 to 70 degree weather....oh yeah!"
Rusty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Salmon Harbor Marina is located in Winchester Bay, Oregon. It's accessible by car via Highway 101. The marina is a prominent landmark in the area, often mentioned in conjunction with Winchester Bay itself.
Yes, parking is generally available, especially during off-peak hours. During busy summer days, parking can become more limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transportation options to Salmon Harbor Marina are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
Nearby attractions include a beautiful beach at the end of the road, playgrounds, and an ice cream shop. The general area of Winchester Bay offers a coastal experience.
Yes, Salmon Harbor Marina can be a great day trip destination, especially for those interested in coastal scenery, fishing, or wildlife viewing. Be prepared for wind!
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to the marina area and its public spaces does not require tickets. However, specific services like RV camping or boat moorage will have associated fees.
The marina itself is generally accessible at all times. However, individual businesses and services within the marina, such as the store or campground office, will have specific operating hours.
Camping fees can be a bit on the higher side, with one reviewer noting it felt like a 'location fee.' While specific prices can vary, expect it to be more than basic forest service campgrounds.
It is highly recommended to reserve campsites and moorage spots in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Some visitors feel there should be a discount for combining RV camping with boat moorage, but it's not always explicitly offered. It's worth inquiring about potential package deals.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include fishing, crabbing, boating, camping, and enjoying the coastal scenery. Wildlife viewing, such as orcas, is also a possibility.
Yes, RV sites are available and often come with amenities like electrical hookups and hose bibs, which are particularly useful for boaters.
The restrooms and showers are generally described as clean and well-maintained, adding to the comfort of the camping experience.
Yes, there are great playgrounds nearby for kids, and the general atmosphere can be enjoyable for families who love the outdoors and water activities.
The atmosphere can be mixed. While some find it peaceful and ideal for boating, others mention issues with noisy generators and territorial long-term residents, which can detract from a serene experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of boats, the marina, coastal landscapes, and potentially wildlife like orcas. The reflections on the water can also make for beautiful photography. +1
Early mornings often offer calmer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography. The 'golden hour' before sunset can also provide beautiful lighting.
A versatile lens is recommended to capture both wide-angle coastal views and closer shots of boats or wildlife. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The beach at the end of the road offers a great vantage point for coastal shots. The marina itself provides numerous angles of boats and water activity.
Yes, if you're lucky enough to spot orcas, they make for incredible photographic subjects. Remember to maintain a safe and respectful distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing along some beach toys and prepare for windy conditions, which can add to the fun. The nearby ice cream shop is also a guaranteed hit!
🎣 Anglers and Crabbing Enthusiasts
Many visitors return year after year specifically for the fishing and crabbing opportunities. Be sure to familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and licensing requirements before you cast your line or set your pots.
🚐 RV Campers with Boats
While the pricing might be a consideration for some, the unique combination of services offered makes it a worthwhile destination for those who want to combine their love for RVing and boating. Ensure you book in advance, as these desirable spots can fill up quickly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Waters: Boating and Fishing
When planning your fishing or crabbing trip, be aware of local regulations and seasons. The waters around Winchester Bay are known for various species, and the marina's location is strategic for accessing productive fishing grounds. Remember to check weather conditions before heading out, as the Oregon coast can experience rapid changes.
Camping Comforts and Considerations
However, potential campers should be aware of a few considerations. Some visitors have noted that the campground can be a bit pricey, with fees perceived as high given the amenities.
Wildlife Wonders: Orcas and More
Beyond orcas, the coastal waters are home to a variety of marine life. While specific sightings can vary, keeping a watchful eye during your time on the water or along the shore can lead to memorable encounters with seals, sea lions, and numerous bird species.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit