Winter Glamping in Oregon’s Vintage Trailers

For decades, the polished aluminum of the potato-shaped Airstream trailer represented an embrace of the open road in the United States. While Airstreams have fallen by the wayside in favor of RVs, teardrop trailers and other modern conveniences, they hold a special place in the hearts of those enamored with a back-to-the-basics brand of travel.

These days, it’s easy to enjoy all the comforts of an Airstream while staying in one place in Oregon. Throughout the state, a handful of campgrounds and resorts are updating and upgrading these vintage trailers for a new generation of travelers. And they’re doing so with modern amenities like high-definition televisions, plush beds and on-site fire pits. (Just a friendly note: Taller travelers may want to watch their heads while moving around inside.)

If you want to enjoy a dose of the outdoors this winter — but want to stay warm while doing so — we’ve rounded up some outstanding trailer resorts around Oregon, along with a few only-in-winter activities for enjoying your day.

Private Yards With Fire Pits and Beach Strolls

Sitting at the base of Haystack Rock and at the foot of Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City is always bustling in summer — but winter brings a quiet calm to the coastal community. Enjoy the relaxed vibe with a couple nights at Hart’s Camp, which hosts seven luxurious Airstreams at the base of a forested hillside. Each features queen or bunk beds, full (indoor) kitchens, and restrooms with showers; when the sun makes an appearance, zip up your puffy jacket and relax in your trailer’s private yard (outfitted with picnic tables, chairs and fire pits).

Away from the campground, you’ll find plenty of winter fun around Pacific City and the broader Tillamook Coast. Consider a stroll along the beach, for instance, at nearby Bob Straub State Park — where you might spy migrating gray whales offshore. And if you want to nosh on an Oregon delicacy, go crabbing for Dungeness crab with rentals, gear and assistance from Kelly’s Brighton Marina along the Nehalem River — and cook the day’s catch on site at the marina, in your trailer’s indoor kitchen or on an outdoor gas grill. 

About 60 miles south on the Central Coast, Tiny Tranquility is a cluster of adorably converted RVs in Waldport, each with their own uniquely colorful style. It’s a short walk to the sandy beach, with a lodge, greenhouse, dog park and outdoor activity area on site. Bring everything you need for a cozy stay, any time of year.

Soaker Tubs and Native Wildlife Spotting in Willamette Valley Wine Country

Enjoying a quiet cellar season at your favorite wineries? The Vintages Trailer Resort, nestled in the heart of Willamette Valley wine country, makes a chic base camp for all your adventures. The luxe trailer park hosts 36 fully restored travel trailers that date back to the 1940s; each has its own personality, but amenities include comfortable beds, private bathrooms and retro-inspired decor. (One, a 1956 Spartan Royal Mansion, even comes with a fenced-in, open-air soaker tub, if you’re willing to brave the elements.) A general store stocks local libations if you want to uncork around the fire pit back at your trailer.

Stretch your legs with a walk through the partially wooded Champoeg State Heritage Area, where in 1843 Oregon’s first provisional government was formed. A few footpaths hug the Willamette River, a birder’s paradise where you might spy migrating birds or native species like the great blue heron or osprey. Afterward, warm up with a flight at one of the more than 600 wineries across the Willamette Valley; in winter a mellow vibe pervades tasting rooms, where there’s always plenty of room around the fireplace. 

Chic Stays, Museums and Oysters in Coos Bay

Bay Point Landing, at the edge of Coos Bay on the southern Oregon Coast, hosts 14 Airstreams, each featuring partial views of the bay, with modern touches that include skylights, kitchenettes, private bathrooms, outdoor fire pits and access to the on-site clubhouse (home to a bocce-ball court and an indoor heated saltwater pool). 

If you feel the need to leave the luxe property, there’s a world of culture just around the bend in Coos Bay — a trio of unique museums, followed by some top-notch food and drink sampling, perhaps? Find everything from whale skeletons to sea anemone at Charleston Marine Life Center; soak up the gorgeous collections (and special exhibit on track legend/native son Steve Prefontaine) at the Coos Art Museum; and marvel at the fascinating displays (tribal canoes, mining and logging artifacts and more) at the bayfront Coos History Museum. When you’re famished, sit down to a fresh, coastal-inspired meal any of the friendly establishments along the Wild Rivers Coast Food Trail. Don’t miss the local rockfish po’ boy and fried PNW oysters at the light-filled 7 Devils Brewery, located on the bayfront.