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Camp 18: One of the Best Places to Eat in Seaside Oregon

camp 18 sign, old heavy equipment, cars

Are you looking for places to eat in Seaside Oregon?  I have just the place to send you! That’s right my friends, it’s time for you to head to Camp 18! While it may not be exactly in Seaside, it is close enough to make the trip well worth it, no matter where you are. It’s an easy commute from Seaside or Cannon Beach and honestly, well worth the trip even if you are further away. We actually took a trip there a few weeks ago from home which is about a 2-and-a-half-hour trip for us. The trip to Camp 18 was our only destination that day. It was a long drive and a long day, but well worth it to each and every one of us! 

I love family-run, non-chain restaurants and Camp 18 is one of our favorites to go when we are on the Northern Oregon Coast. It offers a great atmosphere and good service. Read on for more information on this unique stop along Hwy 26. 

Camp 18: One of the Best Places to Eat in Seaside Oregon

Camp 18 arch, flowers

Camp 18 is a well-known restaurant located in Oregon, specifically in the town of Elsie. It is situated along Highway 26, approximately 18 miles east of Seaside and 12 miles west of the junction with Highway 47. Camp 18 is a popular dining spot for travelers and locals alike, offering a unique logging-camp-themed atmosphere and serving hearty meals.

My husband’s father owned a logging company when he was growing up, so Camp 18 is a huge hit for my husband and his entire family. The nostalgia of it is second to none. It’s not exactly “fine dining,” but trust me, the meals are so delicious, you’ll be ready to plan your next trip before you are even done with your first. This restaurant is a hand-built log cabin with the largest ridge beam in the country used in its construction (I had no idea what that meant when I was told that, but when you walk into the restaurant, you’ll know exactly what it is). 

Where did Camp 18 Get its Name?

Camp 18 isn’t just a quirky name, it actually has a historical background. The restaurant is named after “Camp 18,” which was a logging camp in the area during the early 1900s. The establishment features a large log cabin-style building filled with historical logging artifacts and memorabilia. Visitors can enjoy a variety of good food (heavy on comfort food dishes), including lumberjack-sized breakfasts, seafood, sandwiches, and homemade desserts. I highly, highly recommend ordering the cinnamon roll! It is a plate-sized roll that is heavy on deliciousness. The family-run business offers friendly service, 

In addition to the restaurant, Camp 18 also has a gift shop where you can find unique items related to logging and the Pacific Northwest, I still haven’t bought anything at the gift shop here, but I think I will do so on my next visit. 

Most importantly though, you can find the Logger’s Museum and Memorial next door to the restaurant. The old equipment you’ll see here is like taking a step back in time. Camp 18 is an Oregon landmark that everyone needs to visit at least once! 

Camp 18 breakfast skillet

On our last visit, our crew got a mishmash of menu items. I opted for the brat skillet, my daughter got an omelet, her fiance got pancakes and my son and his girlfriend both ordered burgers. Then my son and future son-in-law ordered a cinnamon roll to share and oh my goodness, everyone was happy with their meals! They even had a great kids menu for my 7-year-old (who opted for pancakes that he loved).  

gluten free toast

For those that need gluten-free options, we found that many of their breakfast dishes are gluten-free (skillet, omelet, etc) and they do have gluten-free bread for toast.

Photos From Camp 18 Logging Museum

We always have a great time when we visit Camp 18. Check out some of these great photos from our last trip there. 

Bigfoot statue

There are plenty of fun statues and carvings here too! My son was a fan of Bigfoot.

old train car
Old train car door
Old logging heavy equipment
old logging equipment
old heavy equipment

There are neat walking trails around the restaurant too!

riverbank

The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby forests. 

Don’t expect free wi-fi here though, there is no cell service at this restaurant and for me, that continues to be part of the charm. Our family always has the best times at Camp 18.

​Other Great Local Restaurants to Enjoy in Seaside

Camp 18 isn’t the only great restaurant to enjoy while in the area! If you’re looking for places to eat near Seaside Oregon, here are some of the best restaurants in the downtown Seaside area:

Maggie’s on the Prom

Located right on the Promenade, this restaurant offers beautiful ocean views and a menu featuring seafood, burgers, salads, and more.

Dooger’s Seafood and Grill

A local favorite, Dooger’s serves a variety of seafood dishes, including fish and chips, clam chowder, and fresh seafood plates.

Pig ‘N Pancake

This family-friendly restaurant serves breakfast all day, along with a selection of lunch and dinner options. Try their famous pancakes or indulge in their seafood specialties.

There are several Pig ‘N Pancake restaurants along the coast. You can find them in the following cities:

  • Cannon Beach
  • Lincoln City
  • Newport
  • Astoria
  • Seaside 

Bell Buoy of Seaside

Known for its delicious fish and chips, Bell Buoy is a seafood market and deli that also offers a small dining area. It’s a great place to enjoy fresh seafood.

Nonni’s Italian Bistro

If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, Nonni’s is a great choice. They offer a variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and plenty of seafood specialties in a cozy atmosphere.

Dundee’s Bar & Grill

Located in the heart of Seaside, Dundee’s is a sports bar and grill that serves pub-style food, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and seafood options.

Fultano’s Pizza

Are you craving pizza? Be sure to snag yourself a famous pizza from Fultano’s. Fultano’s is a local pizza joint that offers a variety of pizzas, calzones, and pasta dishes. If you or your family members are in need of gluten-free options, this is a great restaurant choice, as they have a good selection of gluten-free options available.

Norma’s Seafood & Steak

This restaurant specializes in seafood and steak dishes, offering a wide range of options to satisfy your cravings. It’s a popular spot for a nice dinner in Seaside.

​Restaurants that Require a Bit of a Drive

If you don’t mind taking a bit of a drive, be sure and check out these great restaurants:

Tillamook Cheese Factory. 

One of the most famous places to stop while on the North Coast of Oregon is the Tillamook Cheese Factory. Not only is there a restaurant with great food, but you can also tour the factory and see how your favorite cheese and ice cream is made. There’s a great section of the tour where you can taste test the great flavors of ice cream and cheese, oh and don’t forget to try the cheese curds while you are there! 

The restaurant serves menu items such as sandwiches, burgers, and french fries.

The Pelican

The Pelican is a brewery and restaurant in Pacific City. This restaurant is well-known on the entire coast of Oregon. Here you can find a great selection of food, a decent selection of beers and a great view of the ocean. Pacific City happens to be our favorite beach town on the Oregon Coast. We love getting a vacation rental within walking distance of the Pelican so we can enjoy their local brews with our dinner without worrying about driving. 

If you are looking for a great meal with outdoor seating and friendly staff, the Pelican is a great option! 

​Stimulus Coffee

If you are looking for a great coffee house on the coast, be sure to check out Stimulus Coffee, also in Pacific City. I love a good cup of coffee and they happen to have some of the best coffee on the coast in my opinion. 

These are just a few suggestions, and there are many more dining options in and around Seaside, Oregon. It’s always a good idea to check online reviews and menus to find the best fit for your preferences.

Where to Stay on the Oregon Coast?

If you are planning a trip to the Oregon Coast, be sure and check out these great RV parks near Oregon Coast hotspots.

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