road trip to oregon dunes march 17

[86tuning]

I've wanted to visit the dunes for quite a while, since I was a small child.

What do I need, other than a safety flag? Where do I get one of those? What size hole do I drill in my front bumper for the flag mount? I'd like to drill the hole at home and touch up paint it before I head out, so I don't need to pack a drill with me.

I'll be taking it easy on the dunes themselves, because
a) first time on sand
b) bringing wifenkids
c) 1000 miles from home

Anyone want to join me on saturday? Meet up? I'm thinking about the northern parts (Florence) because it's closer to home.

Afterwards, planning on staying overnite somewhere, then shopping in Portland on sunday.

 

[Count_Fred]

I picked up a flag at a local ATV store. You may also need an Oregon ORV permit. I can't remember specifically about the dunes. Those are also available at ATV stores, and often sport stores near ORV areas. Although I've lived less than 2 hours away for several years, I've never made it out to the dunes in my 80. I would be interested in tagging along, just don't expect me to be a local guide, I won't know much more than you (if that).

Whether I can depends on one final winch repair I'm working on. If I get a few hours of light without rain this evening I can get that squared away. I'll keep you posted. You might consider posting on the Northwest Overland Society forum for other locals who might know.

Cheers,
JFS III

 

[george_tlc]

We've gone to the Umpqua area the past bunch of years for winter break with the kids. You can get the flag and permit at the local ranger station.

We camp south of Reedsport and there's a ranger place at Reedsport - friendly folk, love that town.

Permit is something like $5 and good for 2 years, sticker you put on your bumper etc. Flag is a few $ as well. I mount mine on the ARB since the antenna mount hole is perfect for the flag.

The flag mounting hole needs to clear 1/2" diameter - in the case of the flag I have. The flag mounting point comes with the nut and spring washers etc. I store the flag with some zipties in the vehicle to the passenger side handles, keeps it secure and out of the way.

cheers,
george.

 

[Wheelingnoob]

I have been there lots of times, we try and go down one a year.

Mandatory for using your truck on the dunes:

Flag
ORV permit ($15)
Fire extinguisher
Day pass for the area you are in ($5)

Tips for the sand, air down it makes a huge difference. Have OBA all the gas stations charge for air there. Easy on the throttle do not spin your tires when you get stopped, back up and try again with a bit more speed. Always go straight up or down the dune, limit side angle (Off Camber). Bring a shovel and stay out of the water on the beach.

The Florence Sand dunes are huge, there is a Ranger station just south of town just past the Honeyman camp area. You can get your ORV permit there and also all the information you need on the area. Make sure you have your regi with you when you go they need that. If you camp in Honeyman the camping fee also covers the dune day fee. If not then there is a self pay station on the road out to the spit and dune area. Obey the signs and have a blast!

Jeremy

 

[86tuning]

Thanks gentlemen.

I've just drilled the 1/2" hole in my front bumper. Should be ready for the weekend.

 

[86tuning]

George and Wheelingnoob, thanks for the tips.

Got my extinguisher mounted, did a pre-trip inspection on the 80 and fixed a wierd parking brake issue. Also hard-mounted the Garmin.

Meeting up with Count_Fred on saturday morning to convoy out to the coast. Anyone else wanna join us for a (possibly wet) day on the dunes?