On November 7, Livesay Development Group of Corvallis moved forward with plans to transform a prime piece of vacant downtown land into a family-friendly campground, mini-golf course, and picnic area overlooking Alsea Bay. The property, once home to Waldport Middle School, has sat empty for nearly two decades, but the Livesay Development Group envisions a vibrant new space for both locals and visitors.
The development will include glamping accommodations in geodesic domes connected by a raised boardwalk, two open-air pavilions, a pole barn camp store, a playground, food trucks, and an 18-hole “Bonsai” mini-golf course. The vision is for a low-impact, aesthetically pleasing space that brings together relaxation, recreation, and community enjoyment.
“It’s not your typical mini-golf course with windmills and dinosaurs. We’re focusing on a more boutique experience with manicured putting greens, rolling hills, and sand traps—no driving, just putting,” explained Waldport city planner Jaime White to Yachat News.
The 3-acre property is ideally located between Alsea Bay and downtown’s Northwest Cedar and Northwest Spring streets. The development aims to preserve the area’s natural beauty while providing much-needed amenities. The tagline, ‘Picnic, Play, Stay,’ reflects the goal of creating a place that encourages both leisure and interaction. The geodesic domes will feature electricity for comfort but will maintain a rustic, campground feel, with communal bathrooms.
“While it’s a more urban setting, we want to offer a camping experience that still feels connected to nature, where people can relax and enjoy the outdoors in a convenient location,” said developer Amy Jamros.
With a focus on local engagement, Jamros hopes the space will attract both tourists and Waldport residents. Pavilions will offer weather protection for gatherings, and two beach access points will remain open to the public. Special discounts for locals will also be offered to encourage community participation.
This project has a personal connection for Jamros and her family. It’s a tribute to her stepfather, Bruce Livesay, who passed away in 2022. Jamros says the idea of combining glamping and golf came from his passion for these activities.
The development team, which includes Jamros, her husband Nic, and her mother Jennifer Livesay, is working through the permitting process, with plans to break ground this winter. If all goes according to plan, the development could open by early summer 2025, offering a fresh recreational destination for the region.
The property’s location and the planned changes to nearby roadways have already sparked discussions. A petition is in progress to vacate part of Northwest John Way, which currently bisects the two lots. Jamros believes this adjustment is necessary to create a cohesive space and will ultimately benefit the community.
“We’re hoping that people can see how this will bring the area together and make it a more welcoming and functional space for everyone,” she said.
If the project moves forward as planned, it will be another step in Waldport’s revitalization efforts, offering a unique and family-oriented destination for both locals and visitors to enjoy.
