Exploring the Oregon Coast Sand Dunes: Buggy & ATV Rentals

About Spinreel Dune Buggy & ATV Rentals

Founded in 1986 and owned by Rich Burkholder and his wife Tanya for almost 20 years, Spinreel is at the heart of this dune-exploring adventure and is proud to be one of the oldest rental tourism companies for the Oregon Sand Dunes.

Rich, a former law enforcement officer from Colorado, transitioned to his hometown of North Bend to helm Spinreel’s operations after retiring. Catering to all ages and skill levels, Spinreel offers family-friendly activities that let you explore the dunes in style with a fleet of premier Polaris adventure vehicles for sandy terrain.

ATV Rentals & Dune Buggy Rentals

Spinreel offers dune buggy and ATV rentals for the sand dunes of oregon as well as exclusive tours of the dunes. Guests can choose a vehicle and follow one of the company’s experienced guides on a dune and beach adventure.

With over 70 cars in its fleet and new ones every six months, Spinreel rents out state-of-the-art Polaris vehicles. They are equipped with touchpad GPS maps and technology to guide people back if they get lost. If that happens, Spinreel will also come and get you, as no one gets left behind.

ATV Tours & Guides

Guests can choose between the thrill of an ATV or the spacious comfort of a dune buggy, ranging from quick 30-minute excursions to full-day adventures. The guided tours allow you to drive your vehicle while following knowledgeable guides like Rich’s daughter Heidi and her canine companion Rango the Magnificent, who have gained an Instagram following among dune enthusiasts worldwide.

And who can forget about everyone’s favorite ATV tour guide, Rango the Rental Rangler?

Things You Should Know Before Going

Safety is Spinreel’s top priority. Before the adventure starts, all guests must undergo a 30-minute safety training and orientation, including an 8-minute safety video and 3D dune mapping, to familiarize themselves with the area and the terrain. Rich emphasizes respecting the dunes and equipment, ensuring visitors leave no trace, and many often depart having collected litter from the beach.

Driving on the dunes in Spinreel’s specialized vehicles is encouraged, as it helps control invasive European beach grass, allowing the native dunes to thrive. The nearby John Dellenback Dunes Trailhead Area offers a vehicle-free zone for hiking, while a designated kids-only area lets younger adventurers play safely.

Perfect Time to Visit the Oregon Sand Dunes

The ever-changing nature of the Oregon Dunes means the landscape transforms with the seasons due to shifting wind patterns. While Coos Bay has activities for every season and the dunes are accessible year-round, for the smoothest, most picturesque dunes, visit during the transition months of May or September/October when mild weather and gentle winds create an idyllic setting.

Did You Know?: Oregon’s Sand Dunes & the Pineapple Express

The Dunes are formed by the “Pineapple Express” – a weather system that originates from Hawaii and brings heavy rains pushing water and sediment onto Oregon’s beaches. This process, combined with summer winds from the Arctic Circle that sweep sand from the beach onto the dunes, contributes to the dunes’ constant reshaping. In winter, you might even witness the formation of “Gator Backs” – massive sand castles formed by rain and wind compression.

Popular Oregon Sand Dune Spots near Coos Bay

While the entire dune system has countless nooks and crannies to explore, these iconic spots have become must-see destinations for visitors.

1. Spider Tree

Featured on the Travel Channel, the Spider Tree is a captivating sight – a lone pine tree growing in the middle of a dune, its massive roots exposed and sprawling into the surrounding sand. Visitors can even drive their dune buggies beneath this natural marvel.

2. Roller Coaster

Aptly named, this dune formation offers an exhilarating ride that evokes the thrills of a roller coaster, complete with steep inclines and plunging descents.

3. Memorial Hill

In the past, families would come to what is now called Memorial Hill to gather for picnics and swing from a tree overlooking the bay. Back then, it was called Swing Hill. After the tree fell, the area was renamed, and Memorial Hill became a place to honor those who have made memories in the dunes.

4. Dune 10

Also known as the Devil’s Stump Pile, Dune 10 is a distinctive landmark within the dune system named for the old-growth timber stumps that have emerged from the shifting sands over time.

5. Umpqua Beach

The only way to access this 6-mile stretch of pristine coastline is by walking or driving a dune buggy. Here, you can spot various sea life while looking for the diverse wildlife that calls the dunes home, including cougars, bears, deer, porcupines, and raccoons. Visitors are asked to keep their distance, respect their habitat and leave no trace. The Umpqua Beach OHV Staging Area is the gateway to this coastal haven.

6. Box Car Hill Campground

Situated closest to Coos Bay, Box Car Hill Campground got its name from the railroad tracks that once ran alongside the dunes, where rail cars would be parked. This popular camping spot offers prime access to the dunes.

Why the Oregon Sand Dunes are a Must-Do Activity

Among the many adventures you can find in and around Coos Bay, exploring the Oregon Sand Dunes with Spinreel Dune Buggy & ATV Rentals promises an off-the-beaten-path experience amidst nature’s sandy playground.

Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly activity, an adrenaline-fueled escapade for thrill-seeking teens, or even a bonding experience for your team, with Spinreel’s specialized equipment and knowledgeable guides, your dune expedition is sure to create lasting memories.

Book a room at The Mill Casino • Hotel & RV Park and stay close to the many attractions of Oregon’s Adventure Coast.