How ATV Recreation Became Part of Lakeside’s Identity

Lakeside is famous for its incredible access to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, making it one of the premier ATV destinations in the Pacific Northwest. But ATV culture wasn’t always a hallmark of Lakeside—its development is an evolution that shaped tourism, real estate, and local lifestyle.

Today, ATV riding is more than a hobby in Lakeside—it’s a community experience, a tourism driver, and a celebrated part of the town’s personality.

The Formation of the Oregon Dunes

Thousands of years of wind, waves, and shifting sands created the iconic Oregon Dunes, one of the largest coastal dune systems in North America. These dunes eventually became a natural playground.

But early Lakeside residents weren’t using ATVs yet—they were navigating the dunes on foot or horseback to hunt, gather, and explore.

The Beginning of Off-Road Recreation

By the mid-20th century, off-road vehicles began gaining popularity. People discovered that the dunes offered an incredible landscape for riding. As technology improved and vehicles became safer and more powerful, interest surged.

The dunes near Lakeside quickly became recognized as one of the best riding areas due to:

• open sand bowls

• steep hills

• scenic coastal views

• access points close to town

Tourism Growth and Economic Boost

With ATV enthusiasts pouring into Lakeside, the town saw a boom in tourism-related businesses:

• campgrounds

• repair shops

• rental companies

• restaurants

• convenience stores

• gas stations

ATV riding became one of Lakeside’s key economic drivers, helping the town maintain its vibrancy despite the decline of earlier industries like logging.

Community Events and Riding Culture

Lakeside embraced ATV culture wholeheartedly. Events such as:

• dune riding festivals

• charity rides

• group trail events

• holiday dune gatherings

became part of its identity.

Families passed down the tradition of dune riding from one generation to the next. Visitors who came to ride often ended up purchasing second homes—or moving here permanently—because of the lifestyle.

Real Estate and ATV Access

For many homebuyers, ATV access is a major part of their purchasing decision. Lakeside offers something rare: neighborhoods where you can ride straight from your driveway to the dunes.

This attracts:

• adventure-loving families

• retirees seeking recreation

• investors buying vacation rentals

• second-home buyers

Sydney Shapiro with Shapiro Home Group eXp Realty frequently works with clients specifically seeking ATV-friendly properties and can pinpoint areas with the best access and community support.

Environmental Balance

The community has worked hard over the years to balance recreation with environmental sustainability. Lakeside residents value their natural landscapes, and care is taken to ensure the dunes remain protected while still enjoyed by riders.

Final Thoughts

ATV culture is woven into the modern identity of Lakeside. It brings energy, tourism, and a sense of adventure to the town. For many, it’s not just an activity—it’s a lifestyle.