Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: Off-road riding on coastal terrain

Spanning roughly 47 miles from Florence to North Bend, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area includes several designated riding zones with sand formations that can rise more than 500 feet high. About half the area is open to off-highway vehicles (OHVs), featuring three main riding sections:

• North Dunes: Near Florence, accessible from South Jetty and Goosepasture OHV staging areas.

• Siltcoos area: South of Florence, with access at Driftwood II Campground and Siltcoos Beach Day Use area.

• Middle Dunes: Near Winchester Bay, with access at Umpqua Beach #2 and #3.

Each section offers its own unique terrain, but they aren't connected by rideable trails—so you'll need to transport your vehicle between them. Some staging areas charge a small fee, which may be waived with a recreation pass like the America the Beautiful or Northwest Forest Pass. Be sure to check fee requirements and access details for your chosen entry point.

For an easy starting place, first time visitors may want to start at the Oregon Dunes Day Use Area just south of Dunes City—it offers a great overview of the terrain.

Riding conditions can change quickly in the Siuslaw National Forest. Coastal fog, wind, or beach access restrictions may affect your ride. Temporary night curfews may also be in effect. Always check posted alerts before heading out.

To ride legally and safely in the Oregon Dunes, Oregon requires a few essentials:

• An ATV Operating Permit—$10 and valid for two years.

• A safety flag—Must be orange or red and extend at least 9 feet above the ground.

• A spark arrester and compliant muffler—Your ATV must meet the 93 dB noise limit.

• An ATV Safety Education Card—Free online course at RideATVOregon.org. Riders under 16 also need hands-on training.

The U.S. Forest Service offers downloadable maps for each OHV riding zone in the Oregon Dunes. The maps highlight designated routes, staging areas, sand campsites, and areas with seasonal restrictions. You can also download geospatial PDFs (GeoPDFs) and track your location using a GPS-enabled mobile app like Avenza Maps. For updates and route planning, visit the Siuslaw National Forest website.

The Oregon Dunes are open year-round, but conditions can change quickly. Fog, coastal winds, and shifting sands mean no two days—or rides—are exactly the same.

Some areas may close temporarily from March 15 to September 15 to protect the nesting grounds of the western snowy plover. These closures affect only small sections, but it’s important to check trail status before you ride.

Here are the average temps in Florence:

Riding the dunes is unforgettable—but it comes with distinct challenges. Staying alert and riding within your skill level can help keep you safe during your adventure.

Here are some top safety must-knows for riding the dunes:

Round out your trip with scenic stops, local eats, and coastal attractions near the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area:

Florence is a small coastal town at the mouth of the Siuslaw River, offering a mix of restaurants, lodging, and attractions. Visit iconic landmarks like the restored Heceta Head Lighthouse and the sprawling Sea Lion Caves. Local dining favorites include the Little Brown Hen Cafe and Novelli’s Crab & Seafood.

Located along the lower Umpqua River in the heart of the Oregon Dunes National Recreational Area, Reedsport features the Oregon Dunes Visitor Center—your go-to stop for maps and travel brochures. While you’re there, check out:

• Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area

• Oregon Route 38—a scenic 60-mile drive

• Local eats: Harbor Light Family Restaurant(seafood), Don's Main Street Family Restaurant (all-day breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and Highwater Cafe and Market (coffee and pastries)

One of only two U.S. national forests with oceanfront access, the Siuslaw National Forest offers hiking trails, old-growth forests, waterfalls, and miles of sand beaches—perfect for outdoor exploring. Sand camping is also available—book through Recreation.gov, and be sure to review current site rules and fees before you go.

Have questions about what’s required or recommended while riding your ATV in Oregon? Dairyland^®, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, offers flexible ATV coverage options. Whether you need to meet state requirements or want extra protection on the trail, we can help—call us at 866-287-9640 to explore off-road insurance options.