Revitalization of Fly-In Campground at Oregon Coast Airport Funded by Grant
The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) has been awarded a grant to rehabilitate the campground at Siletz Bay State Airport (S45) on the Oregon coast. This initiative aims to revive a once-popular destination for pilot gatherings that attracted up to 25 aircraft during weekend camping events.
RAF Oregon Ambassador, Sarah Brown, and RAF Oregon Liaison, Richard Mayes, received the grant to restore the campground near Lincoln Beach. Over the years, this area had become overgrown and largely forgotten. The project will include:
- Replacing picnic tables and fire rings
- Laying gravel for improved drainage
- Building a firewood shed
The airport, owned and managed by the Oregon Department of Aviation, was repaved in 2025. It is conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from Gleneden Beach. The location offers visitors opportunities for:
- Beachcombing
- Agate hunting
- Kite flying
- Surfing
- Whale watching
A 40-minute walk north leads to hiking trails at the Alder Island Nature Trailhead.
Oregon Department of Aviation Director, Kenji Sugahara, has expressed enthusiastic support for the RAF mission. The organization has successfully collaborated with ODA on similar projects at McKenzie Bridge (00S), Owyhee (28U), and Toketee (3S6) airports. Discussions are ongoing to improve facilities at Nehalem Bay (3S7).
Source: https://generalaviationnews.com/