If you’re dreaming of ocean breezes, great food, and a laid-back town packed with outdoor adventures, Lincoln City, Oregon should be at the top of your RV travel list. Whether you’ve got a weekend or a full week to explore, this coastal gem offers something for every kind of traveler—beachcombers, hikers, foodies, and families alike. From hunting for hidden glass floats to hiking through old-growth forests and relaxing lakeside, this blog post will guide you through the must-see sights and best local experiences to make your Lincoln City stay unforgettable.

Where is Lincoln City, Oregon located?

Lincoln City can be found along the middle of the coastline of Oregon. It is nestled between Tillamook to the north and Newport to the south. Lincoln City is surrounded by water with the Pacific Ocean located on the west, the Salmon River on the north, the Siletz Bay on the south, and Devil’s Lake on the east. So if you are into water sports and recreation, you will love this area.

What to do in Lincoln City?

My family and I just came back from a 5-day trip to Lincoln City. We enjoyed hiking, visiting tide pools, short road trips to local areas, and of course, eating. Here are some highlights of our favorite places to visit.

1. Drift Creek Falls – This is just a short drive from the city, but it takes about 30 minutes to arrive at the trailhead because the road is narrow and winding. But the good news is, it is paved and easy to drive. I do not recommend driving it in your RV. It is pretty tight, and it is very difficult to get two vehicles on the road at one time. The hike is about 3 miles round-trip, and the elevation does not change much. The trail is dirt. You cross over a few wooden bridges and one long suspension bridge that brings you to the falls. Once you arrive at the falls, there is the option to continue down a steep trail to play in the creek and on the rocks near the waterfall. As always, use caution on the rocks; they will be slippery, and stay away from the falls. Leashed dogs are allowed on this trail.
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3. Devil’s Lake – The lake is amazing. And like all Oegon State Parks, really nice. One side of the park is for camping (I will get to that later) and the other side of the park is for boat launching and day use. On the lake, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards from local vendors, or go fishing. Devil’s Lake is a perfect location for a relaxing aquatic morning in the town’s only coastal state park.
4. Cascade Head Trail – This is one of the most scenic and rewarding hikes on the Oregon Coast, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, lush forests, and the Salmon River Estuary. Located just north of Lincoln City, this trail is part of a protected Nature Conservancy preserve, known for its rare ecosystems and diverse wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, bald eagles, and the endangered Oregon silverspot butterfly, if you are lucky enough to get a glimpse of wildlife on your hike.
5. Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge – This is a 570‑acre coastal sanctuary. This is a great place for bird lovers and those who love to be at peace with the world around them. Note that pets are not allowed on this trail.
6. Oregon Coast Aquarium – Just a short drive south in Newport you will find a small but cute aquarium. Here you can visit the bird aviary, passage of the deep shark tanks, touch pools, and other exhibits.       

What are some short, scenic drives?

1. Tillamook – One of my favorite places in all of Oregon is the Tillamook area. I never stay in Tillammok; I find it better for day trips. The drive is about an hour and fifteen minutes from Lincoln City. One stop I always make while there is the Tillamook Creamery. You can just eat your way through the cheesy pizza, mac and cheese, and cheese curds, or just eat your body weight in ice cream. I will leave that up to you. I will recommend the ice cream nachos. Scoops of ice cream surrounded by cookies that you scoop the creamy goodness with. It is yum. Also, stop by the Blue Heron to pet the cute animals, pick up some delicious cheese and other goodies for your charcuterie board, or visit the candy store. You can even make this place your lunch destination. Bonus, it is even a Harvest Host if you have that membership. One other place I always visit while in Tillamook is the Tillamook Forest Center. It is perfect for children and adults alike.
2. The Willamette Valley – This wine region is about an hour and a half from Lincoln City. The area is famous for Pinot Noir and is a popular tourist destination. Do a little research to see which vineyards you want to visit, and hop in your car and go!

Want some food recommendations?

We love food, so we won’t steer you wrong in the few suggestions we will offer you while you are visiting Lincoln City.

1. Lincoln City BBQ – Not only is this place delicious, it is also veteran-owned. They are located on the main drag in the heart of the town. They are super helpful with their recommendations, but note that they are very popular in the summer, and the later it gets, the less likely they are to have a full menu. They run out, it is just that good. They also close early at 6:00 pm. Grab your grub! Savannah (one of the owners) helped us gather our food for a large party of 20 people. She and the staff were all incredibly helpful.           
2. Wildflower Grill – This place has a cute atmosphere and good views out the back side of the restaurant. It is located on the main strip, almost as you leave town, so you get away from a lot of the traffic of the town. We ate lunch here, and they have an excellent breakfast and lunch menu. I highly suggest you try both meals here.
3. Lighthouse Coffee – Located on the west side of the main road, it is not hard to miss as it looks like a white lighthouse. I love chai tea lattes, and they serve one of my favorite brands, Big Train. My husband says the coffee is great. This is only a drive-thru.
4. Big Mountain Coffee Roasters – OK, so this one is not technically in Lincoln City, but it is in Depoe Bay, just south of Lincoln City. They might serve the best chai I have ever consumed. If you haven’t figured it out yet, I am a BIG chai lover. I had 3 from this place while in town. They were delicious. The shop is very cute. You can buy pottery made at the shop, coffee beans, or loose-leaf tea while you wait for your beverage to be made. Here you can get pastries or fancy drinks inside the shop or in the drive-thru.

Where do I stay?

1. Devil’s Lake State Park – This state park has a great location directly across the street from the beach and in the heart of downtown Lincoln City. It is open May – October. There is no direct lake access in this campground, but there are trails to walk to Devil’s Lake. On the east side of the lake (I think about 3 miles away) is the boat launch. There is no boat launch from the campground. Campsites are limited with full hookups. Best for: Nature lovers who want walkable access to both lake and city.
2. Logan Road RV Park – Tucked in the quiet Wecoma district on the ocean side of Highway 101, Logan Road RV Park offers full hookups, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and a shuttle to the nearby Chinook Winds Casino. This park is especially popular with travelers who want to be close to the beach while staying in a smaller, well-kept park. Best for: RVers looking for beach access, casino fun, and peace and quiet.
3. Premier RV – If you’re looking for more upscale accommodations, Premier RV Resort at the south end of town offers well-maintained sites with all the bells and whistles—clubhouse, clean restrooms, showers, laundry, and a welcome center stocked with snacks and supplies. It’s within walking distance of the beach and local dining, and a short drive from hiking trails. Note that some of the sites in this park back up to the busy road if you have sensitivity to noise. Best for: Travelers seeking resort-style amenities in a coastal setting.

And of course, there are many more RV parks in and around the city that I did not have time to check out!

Why visit Lincoln City?

This small coastal town on the central Oregon coast is perfect for the RV traveler, tent camper, or coastal explorer. Lincoln City is a perfect coastal escape for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm. With seven miles of beach, lush forests, and the calm waters of Devil’s Lake, it offers something for everyone. Whether you love hiking, tidepooling, kayaking, or just relaxing by the ocean. Scenic hikes like Cascade Head or Drift Creek Falls make it more than just a beach town. Add in great seafood, BBQ, cozy shops, and RV-friendly campgrounds right in town, and Lincoln City becomes an easy, rewarding destination for both quick getaways and extended stays.

Need more Oregon Campgrounds?

Campgrounds on the Oregon Coast to stay:

Cannon Beach RV

Heceta Beach RV

Diamond Lake RV

Coquille River RV

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