Visiting Bullards Beach State Park Near Bandon, Oregon

Situated about two miles north of Bandon along the southern Oregon coast, Bullards Beach State Park is a favorite amongst outdoor enthusiasts. The park features over four miles of soft sandy beach, where visitors can bike, ride horses, beachcomb, or simply sit back and relax.

There are also multiple hiking trails, spectacular bird-watching opportunities, boat launch facilities, and a historic lighthouse. If one day at Bullards Beach State Park isn’t enough, you can stay a night or two at the well-appointed campground.

Below you’ll find our guide to Bullards Beach State Park, including things to do, info about the campground, and things to do nearby.

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Table of Contents

Bullards Beach State Park
Bullards Beach
Bullards Beach State Park Hikes
Bike Around Bullards Beach
Horses at Bullards Beach
Coquille River Lighthouse
Camping at Bullards Beach
What’s Near Bullards Beach
- Bandon Beach
More Oregon State Parks

Bullards Beach State Park

Bullards Beach

Bullards Beach State Park is blessed with over four miles of beach. Unsurprisingly, this sandy stretch is one of the center points of the park. Visitors flock here to partake in classic beach day activities like swimming and suntanning in the summer.

However, even if you’re not here during prime beach season, there are plenty of fun ways to enjoy the shoreline. You can comb the beach for shells and driftwood, and as you stroll, you’ll likely see a variety of wildlife.

For example, harbor seals are often seen swimming in the surf or resting along the coastline. In addition, birds love the beach, and you’ll likely spot brown pelicans, gulls, and cormorants, among other species.

Bullards Beach State Park Hikes

The path from the campground to the beach is the most popular trail at Bullards Beach. The route is about a mile long and leads through lowland forests, grassy fields, and sandy dunes. You’ll peep views of the scenic Coquille River and the wildlife refuge that sits on the other side.

Signpost for the Lighthouse Trail at Bullards Beach State Park — Don’t miss a stroll along the Lighthouse Trail

Once you reach the beach, you can continue walking along the compact sand and enjoy postcard-perfect vistas of jagged sea stacks and crashing waves. In addition to the four-plus miles of beach, visitors will find a variety of coastal hiking trails at Bullards Beach State Park.

The Coquille River Lighthouse Trail is a short stroll, but it’s worth traversing. The path leads to the historic Coquille River Lighthouse and the jetty beyond. As you make your way along the trail, you’ll get sweeping ocean views and likely lots of wind – so dress accordingly!

Jetty at Bullards Beach State Park — Continue past the lighthouse to reach the jetty

Check out the Bullards Beach North Loop Trail for a more strenuous trek. This moderate trail encompasses the park’s northern side and features shaded forests, grassy dunes, and beautiful coastal views.

Note that a large section of this trail comprises deep, soft sand. The sandy spots are hard to traverse, so this otherwise easy trail is rated moderate.

Bike Around Bullards Beach

Cycling is another popular pastime at Bullards Beach State Park. Take a spin along the paved path from the campground to the beach, or let your wheels carry you along the compact sand along the coast until you find the perfect spot to chill out and enjoy the views.

Horses at Bullards Beach

Horses are welcome at the park, and there’s even a separate horse camp for those who choose to visit with their four-legged friends. From the campground, equestrians will have access to the beach and dunes.

In addition to the beach, the Bullards Beach North Loop Trail is a popular spot for horseback riding.

Coquille River Lighthouse

Don’t leave the park without stopping by the Coquille River Lighthouse. The lighthouse dates back to 1895, when it was built to help sailors navigate the bar at the river entrance. Today, this historic structure is open to the public.

From mid-May through late September, you can hear volunteers interpret the history of the iconic lighthouse and the surrounding area. The lighthouse sits at the southern end of the beach and is accessible via a short trail from the parking area.

Camping at Bullards Beach

Those who want to experience this scenic area for more than a few hours are in luck. Bullards Beach State Park has a large campground nestled amongst the shore pines that caters to all types of visitors. There are nearly 200 full hook-up and standard electric sites scattered around three different loops.

Bridge near day use area at Bullards Beach State Park — Bridge over the Coquille River near the Bullards Beach campground

The campground also has a dump station, reservable picnic shelters, and firewood for purchase. There is even an area tailored for hikers and bikers with storage lockers equipped with solar-powered USB charging ports.

In addition, equestrians will find a horse camp with eight primitive sites with beach access. The campground is open year-round, and reservations are available up to six months in advance.

Even those who prefer the ritz to the rugged will find a comfortable place to stay at Bullards Beach. The park offers 13 pet-friendly yurts along the coast. The yurts are available year-round, and reservations are required.

What’s Near Bullards Beach

Bandon Beach

The fun doesn’t end where the park borders begin. If you’d like to explore more of the nearby area during your time at Bullards Beach State Park, head to Bandon Beach.