Because we love the Oregon coast !
When friends asked if we would join them for a mini holiday we said sure. They had booked a few nights at a casino in Florence and we were to join them there for golf – they would then head to Seattle and home, while we would spend a week or so camping our way home. Then they bought a Class C RV and plans changed. Being newbies to RV’ing, they were happy to allow us to plan an itinerary of golf/camping and ‘show them the ropes’.
We stuck to the original plan to head to the casino in Florence and golf at the course there – however, as we explained to our friends – travel in an RV is a little slower than a car, so we took two days to get there.
We booked the 7:30 pm Thursday ferry from Victoria to Port Angeles in order to gain a two hour head start the next morning. Upon disembarking and clearing customs, we drove one block to the Red Lion Hotel which allows ferry customers to camp out in the parking lot for $15 – Perfect! Although, one of our companions didn’t have a great sleep as she was too nervous all night.
Being able to get an early start in the morning we planned to drive a good distance to a rest area just before Astoria (at the Washington/Oregon border). With a quick stop in Sequim to get a few groceries, we were on our way. The drive is scenic through the rolling hills on the edges of the Olympic mountain range, and along the Hood canal.
We stopped at Potlatch State Park day use to let the pups run and to have a quick bite of lunch – It was a good opportunity to check the campground out for future trips as it is a great first stop after the ferry.
Heading west toward the coast we arrived late afternoon at the Dismal Nitch rest area (our potential stop for the night?). After the previous night we needed to ensure everyone would be comfortable staying there as it is right beside the highway and close enough to town to possibly be a popular spot for locals. We were quite happy to find the highway was closed for construction further along, so no truck traffic expected to be on the road – and while there were some locals camping out, it was not that busy – yet (it was quite full when we awoke in the morning). With everyone on board, we parked closely beside one another and settled for an early evening.
The name of the rest area is what originally caught my attention while researching our trip, and there is a plaque on site explaining it’s history of having been named in 1805 by Captain Clark of the Lewis and Clark expedition. It is very scenic being right beside the fast flowing Columbia River and looking across to Astoria. The striking Astoria-Megler Bridge can be seen clearly and there is a short trail along the water to walk the dogs. Restrooms were decently clean, and there are picnic tables. The signage allows for an 8 hour stay, so no problem for overnighters.
The next morning we were up early (and unfortunately rushed our friends a little), but with a long drive we wanted to get going. After crossing the causeway – bridge into Oregon we stopped shortly after in Warrenton where you find all the major stores. We first went to Fred Meyers (a favourite US grocery chain of ours) and got gas and most of the groceries we would need for the week. Next to Costco where we stocked up on beer and wine – so much cheaper than in Canada and we always lament that we cannot buy Kirkland wines in Canada.
Back on the road we made our way down the coastal Hwy 101 on our way to Florence. Since we would be going back the same way, and with a long driving day we all decided to limit our stops to a scenic pull-out for photos where we had great clear views for miles and at Cannon Beach to give Cedar a good run and to check out one of the most famous beaches along the Oregon Coast. Our drive back will be much shorter days and will provide much more opportunity to play tourist.
Arriving late in the day at the Three Feather’s Casino, we checked in at the Casino desk to get a ‘Players Card’ allowing us free camping for one night and $10 free play. The campsite is actually just a parking lot – although there are about 6 spots with electric hook-ups. We ‘girls’ headed to the casino to play the slots a little, but found the ambience a little lacking (and they allow smoking in the casino) YUK – we didn’t stay and play very long.
With a tee off booked for 10:30, we got up early and left our friends to slowly get ready, while we went to find a place to give Cedar a good walk. We headed into Newport to find a park and after walking along the very picturesque and deserted streets (being Sunday), we drove to the marina to park and prepare some breakfast. In the marina Chris spotted one of the chowder spots he had bookmarked as being highly rated.
Off to the golf course. Just for fun, I asked if they allow dogs on the course (two others golf clubs we planned to play at allow dogs, so …….) I was delighted when they said yes, because that meant I could play 18 holes – I was previously planning to quit at nine so as not to leave Cedar alone in the van for four hours. The golf course is very pretty and well laid out – a bit hilly in spots, so glad to have had a cart. It was a great round and Cedar had a ball “pun intended”.