19 Must-Visit Oregon Coast State Parks

The Oregon Coast is famous for a reason; it’s absolutely mind-blowingly beautiful!

From jagged rock cliffs to jutting sea stacks and thriving tide pools to verdant redwood forests, every corner will take your breath away.

Most of the epic views, adventurous hikes, and cool camping locations are at an Oregon Coast State Park. Here are 19 that we think are spectacular, adventuresome, and most worth your time.

Oregon Coast State Parks Worth a Visit

Click the image to view the clickable map of Oregon Coast State Parks.

1. Fort Stevens State Park

The incredible Fort Stevens State Park marks the site of a military installation that was once used to guard the mouth of the Columbia River and was in service for 84 years.

Today, this Oregon Coast state park covers 4,300 acres, offering beautiful scenery and so much to see and do, ideal for those looking for a little bit of adventure on the Oregon Coast.

Person in front of military gun at Fort Stevens Oregon Coast State Park — Fort Stevens State Park on the Oregon Coast

Things to do: You can enjoy all sorts of things to do at the park, including beach-combing, hiking, swimming in a freshwater lake, wildlife viewing, cycling, disc golf, kayaking, and taking in the sights of the mighty shipwreck that sits on the beach. Visitors can also enjoy the military displays to get an insight into Oregon history.

Best Hike: Peter Iredale Trail (0.4 miles, easy, loop) – Although short, this is the best trail that will take you to see the dramatic shipwreck that dominates this park. There are miles of beach in either direction if you wish to extend the hike and take in the coastal views.

Ship wreck on beach at Fort Stevens State Park, one of the best Oregon Coast State Parks — Peter Iredale shipwreck at Fort Stevens State Park

Camping: The campground at Fort Stevens is one of the nation’s largest public campgrounds. There are 174 full-hookup sites, 302 electrical sites, 6 tent sites, 15 yurts, and 11 deluxe cabins, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.

2. Ecola State Park

Twisting its way around Tillamook Head, Ecola State Park spreads its way across 9 miles of coastline, with plenty of stunning sights and ways to keep visitors entertained.

From the cliff, visitors can take in views of the Pacific Ocean, the sea stacks that sweep up the shoreline, forested promontories, and a striking abandoned lighthouse, making it one of the best Oregon Coast state parks when it comes to views.

View of person on grassy cliff with the ocean and rocky islands in the background at Ecola State Park on the Oregon Coast — Ecola State Park on the Oregon Coast

VW van on road in the forest at Ecola State Park, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Ecola State Park on the Oregon Coast

Things to do: The scenic views and plentiful hiking opportunities are the main draws to the park, although surfing, picnicking, tidepool exploring, and wildlife observation are all extremely popular, no matter the time of year you are planning to visit.

It contains 8 miles of the Oregon Coast Trail, while Indian Beach, sitting at the base of Tillamook Head, is an incredible place to take in the huge basalt formation of the headland.

Best Hike: Clatsop Loop Trail (2.8 miles, moderate, loop) – Be prepared for a long incline for the first section of the hike, but the effort will be well worth it when you take in the views of the lighthouse below you.

The hike will take you through a forest of big trees and then descends down closer to the cliffs of Indian Point. If you are up for a longer hike, carry on north over Tillamook Head.

3. Hug Point State Park

Just 5-miles south of Cannon Beach, Hug Point State Park offers a wonderful insight into the history of the area as well as the beauty of nature. There is easy access to the beach and visitors are able to walk along the original trail carved to the point by stagecoaches used before the highway was built.

Although incredible, Hug Point can be pretty dangerous and it is possible to become stranded by the incoming tide, so always be aware of this.

Wedding setup on the beach in front of sea cliffs at Hug Point State Park, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Hug Point State Park in Oregon (there happened to be a wedding here!)

Foggy beach and large rocks at Hug Point Oregon Coast State Park — Hug Point State Park in Oregon (there happened to be a wedding here!)

Things to do: Take in the views of Haystack Rock, one of the most identifiable landmarks on the Oregon Coast, take a hike, and explore the two caves around the point. Just be sure to have checked out the tide times beforehand.

Best Hike: Hug Point Trail (1.2 miles, easy, out and back) – Be sure to check the tide times before taking this hike, but if the tide is out, the Hug Point Trail is a must. You’ll find a stunning waterfall spilling out onto the beach, with a few explorable caves carved out of the sandstone.

4. Oswald West State Park

Covered in rich, dense rainforest along 4-miles of the Oregon Coast is Oswald West State Park, offering trails, views, beaches, waves and so much more.

Short Sand Beach is one of the busiest beaches, hidden in a sheltered cove and surrounded by volcanic basalt and towering sandstone cliffs, and can be reached by just a short walk. Cape Falcon and Neah-kah-nie Mountain can be found within the park which offers incredible views of the ocean and cliffs.

Person with surfboard by large sign with beach in the background at Oswald West, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Oswald West State Park on the Oregon Coast

Things to do: This Oregon Coast state park is very popular with surfers and hikers alike, with incredible trails and incredible waves to match. A 13 mile stretch of the Oregon Coast Trail winds its way through the park, although there are plenty of other hiking trails to enjoy that vary in difficulty.

Best Hike: Cape Falcon Trail (4.6 miles, moderate, out and back) – There are beautiful views throughout the whole trail, with a great transition between the quiet forest and rugged coastline. The trail will take you all the way to the cape, which can get pretty muddy, so be sure to wear some good shoes.

5. Nehalem Bay State Park

Situated on a 4-mile sand spit is Nehalem Bay State Park, home of a large campground set in between swaying shore pines and surrounded by sandy dunes. Just a short stroll over the dunes, and you’ll be on a beautiful beach, ready to relax and enjoy the sound of the ocean.

The park also features a 2,400-foot airstrip that offers the unique chance to fly in and camp.

Misty beach view of Nehalem Bay, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Misty Nehalem Bay State Park in Oregon

VW van in Nehalem Bay State Park, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Misty Nehalem Bay State Park in Oregon

Things to do: After taking a stroll and admiring the views of the bay, kayaking, boating, crabbing, clamming, and picnicking are all available for both day guests and campers. There is also an amphitheater which runs interpretive programs throughout the summer months.

Best Hike: Nehalem Bay Trail Loop (1.8 miles, easy, loop) – The whole trail is paved, making it good for all skill levels, and has a nice view out over the bay and beyond. The loop is dog and bike-friendly, making it pretty busy, but it is one of the best ways to see what the park has to offer.

Camping: Nehalem Bay has a huge campsite with 265 electrical sites, allowing you instant access to the views and recreational offers available. There are also 18 yurts available if you are looking for a bit more of a luxurious stay. There are flush toilets, playgrounds, dump stations, ranger stations, and various other amenities to make use of.

6. Cape Meares State Park

The promontory on which this Oregon Coast state park is located in a half state park and half wildlife refuge, but both are great places to explore. The Cape Meares Lighthouse and the Octopus Tree are the two attractions that many people come to see.

Ocean and beach view from above at Cape Meares State Park, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Cape Meares State Park on the Oregon Coast

The Octopus Tree is a large, multi-trunked Sitka Spruce with a huge trunk circumference, located just a short hike from the parking lot. Situated on a headland 200 feet above the ocean, the views will take your breath away

Things to do: Birdwatching is particularly popular in the park thanks to it being the home of the largest colony of nesting common murres. Bald eagles are also often seen in the area. There are plenty of hiking trails with interpretive panels at key viewpoints, and in the winter and spring, it is a great location for viewing whale migrations.

View of track and Cape Meares Lighthouse, a must visit Oregon Lighthouse — Cape Meares Lighthouse

Person sitting on bench with trees looking out at ocean view near Cape Meares Oregon Lighthouse — Cape Meares Lighthouse

Best Hike: Cape Meares Lighthouse Loop (0.5 miles, easy, loop) – The path along the coast offers the chance to get up close to this historic lighthouse and has a few areas where you can stop to take in the beach below you. Incredible old-growth Sitka spruce leads to the headland where all you can hear will be the swells and the seabirds.

7. Cape Lookout State Park

Cape Lookout State Park is located on a large sand spit between the ocean and Netarts Bay, offering miles of hiking trails and views. On a clear day, you may even be able to see south 39 miles to Cape Foulweather and north 42 miles to Tillamook Head.

Things to do: Although hiking is the main activity, visitors to the park can also enjoy beachcombing, nature watching, and taking in some of the sights on the Three Capes Scenic Route.

Beach and forested sea cliffs at Cape Lookout - one of the best Oregon Coast State Parks — Cape Lookout State Park on the Oregon Coast

VW van in front of beach and sea view at Cape Lookout - one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Cape Lookout State Park on the Oregon Coast

Best Hike: Cape Lookout Trail (4.7 miles, moderate, out and back) – The Lookout trail is one of the most well-trodden in the park. You’ll head down the peninsula with the Pacific Ocean on either side of you, with some great views. You’ll be hiking along the cliff 400 feet above the water with little elevation change, although it can get a bit muddy.

Camping: Year-round camping is available at the park. Most of the area is used by tent campers, with 170 sites available, although there are also 38 full-hookups for RVs and trailers. There are also 13 yurts, 6 deluxe cabins, and group camping areas.

8. Devils Punch Bowl State Park

Crashing waves, thick seafoam, and angry swells are a common sight in Devils Punch Bowl State Park. The area is known for the way that the restless ocean slams into the hollow rock formation known as Devils Punch Bowl, from which the park got its name.

The formation was likely created by the collapse of sea caves, and today the thundering roar of the waves crashing up through the hole is quite impressive to see.

View over Devil's Punchbowl and the ocean, at Devil's Punch Bowl State Park - one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Impressive Devils Punchbowl on the Oregon Coast

Things to do: Explore the many tide pools, admire the views, and scan the horizon for whales; there is plenty to do in this state park alongside watching the churning waters. Surfing is one of the most popular activities thanks to the restlessness of the water, so grab your board and head out to hit the waves.

Best Hike: Devils Punch Bowl Trail (0.7 miles, easy, loop) – This is a very popular trail and one of the best ways to see the punch bowl from a different perspective. Keep watch of the low tide as this is the best and safest time to explore this natural wonder. Be aware that although short, it is pretty rocky.

RELATED: Devils Punch Bowl Oregon

9. Beverly Beach State Park

From the parking lot in Beverly Beach State Park, walk either north or south along this stunning stretch of coastline, between Lincoln City and Newport, to find your own secluded little spot of serenity away from the crowds. You can walk the whole way from Otter Rock to the north or Yaquina Head to the south if you desire.

Things to do: This Oregon Coast state park has some of the best whale-watching viewpoints on the coast, so keep your eyes peeled on the water for a good chance of spotting some of these majestic creatures. There is also a grassy, day-use picnic area for lunch with a view.

Bridge and river at Beverly Beach - one of the best Oregon Coast State Parks — Beverly Beach State Park in Oregon

Best Hike: Spencer Creek Nature Trail (1.7 miles, easy, loop) – Take a break from the beach and take a hike on the short nature trail that runs along Spencer Creek through the woodlands, a great way to enjoy the ancient forest, so close to the sea.

Camping: The creekside campground at Beverly Beach is actually one of the state’s largest, with 53 full-hookup sites, 76 electrical sites with water, and 128 tent sites. The entire campground is surrounded by giant, wind-sculpted trees for a little protection from the elements.

10. Yaquina Bay State Park

Located at the north end of Yaquina Bay, this beautiful Oregon Coast state park is made up of a forested bluff covered in rich spruce and pine. The main star of the park is the lighthouse, as it is the only existing Oregon lighthouse with the living quarters attached.

It is a lovely place to stop and admire the views, have a bite to eat at the picnic facilities, and enjoy relaxing on the beach.

Yaquina Bay Lighthouse in Yaquina Bay State Park, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Yaquina Bay Lighthouse

View of ocean with rocky islands in Yaquina Bay, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Yaquina Bay Lighthouse

Things to do: For those interested in the history of the area, a guided tour of the lighthouse is a must. The basement features interpretive displays where you can learn more about the history of the lighthouse.

Best Hike: State Park and Lighthouse (0.4 miles, easy, loop) – Come rain or shine, you won’t be disappointed with the views along this hike. It’s great if you don’t have much time but still want to see the main attractions in the area as it will take you up to the lighthouse and to a beautiful beach. Keep your eyes peeled for harbor seals.

Just 15 minutes north is Yaquina Head Lighthouse (yes there are two Yaquina’s!) where you’ll find more gorgeous views and hiking trails.

11. Oregon Dunes

You don’t have to head to the desert to see sand dunes, you can see them right here in Oregon, stretching from Florence to Coos Bay. Towering dunes reach 500 feet above sea level and provide numerous recreational opportunities.

The Oregon dunes are like no other in the world, formed by wind, water, and time, and are the largest expanse of coastal dunes in North America.

Nina looking out over sand dunes at Oregon Dunes National Recreational Area on the Oregon Coast — Sand dunes at Oregon Dunes National Recreational Area

Things to do: Hiking and exploring the dunes is the main thing to do in the area, but there are also some lakes to explore too, with over 30 in total. There are places where you can hire boats to head out onto the water, with the Siltcoos Canoe and Kayak Trail one of the coolest things to do around the dunes.

Surfing here is also great in the summer months, and you can get your adrenaline rush by taking to the dunes on your OHV or dune buggy.

Best Hike: Tahkenitch Dunes Trail (6 miles, moderate, loop) – This trail gives you the best of all worlds, including forests, beaches, and of course, lots and lots of dunes. You’ll start the trail headed through the forest before the trees clear and the dunes open up before you, slowly getting closer and closer to the shoreline.

12. Shore Acres State Park

Although small, Shore Acres State Park has a lot to offer. The park is perched high on the cliffs above the ocean, offering the perfect combination of natural wonders and man-made features in the form of the Louis Simpson grand estate, a former timber baron. The park also features stunning gardens with flowers and plants from all over the world.

Nearby you will find Sunset Bay State Park and Cape Arago State Park, which are both worth visiting if you are in the area. A hiking trail, which is part of the Coast Trail, connects the three parks.

View of sea cliff, beach and ocean at Shore Acres, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Shore Acres State Park on the Oregon Coast

Things to do: Explore the estate and gardens, take a stroll down to the beautiful Simpson Beach, admire the ocean vistas or try to spot the migrating grey whales, seals, and sea lions that call this stretch of coastline their home.

Best Hike: Cape Arago Loop Trail (1.2 miles, easy, loop) – If it is scenic views you are after, you will be hard pushed to find a hike better than the Cape Arago Loop in the area. The hike is good for everyone as it is mostly flat, with just a few stairs.

13. Bandon State Park

With 4.5-miles of beach to enjoy, it is no wonder that Bandon State Park is a popular Oregon Coast state park. It is a favorite spot for photographers and those that come to enjoy the natural surroundings and dramatic coastal scenery at the mouth of the Coquille River. There is plenty for visitors to enjoy including a beautiful lighthouse and fishing and crabbing in the river.

Things to do: Hiking and biking are both very popular within the park. If you don’t fancy walking, bring your mountain bike along and enjoy a ride along the hard-packed sand along the edge of the surf, or come on horseback and make use of the 11-miles of trail and 4-miles of beach and dunes on four legs.

Rock reflection on Bandon Beach, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Bandon Beach on the Oregon Coast

Best Hike: Bandon Oregon Coast Walk (4.4 miles, easy, out and back) – Get a look at some of the outstanding scenery of the area on the coastal walk, perfect for a short stroll to take in the views and stretch your legs. The rock formations on this part of the coast are pretty impressive.

Camping: Year-round camping is available at Bullards Beach, with 103 full-hookup sites and 82 electrical sites. There are also 13 yurts for camping with a difference, a group camp, horse camp, and a hiker/biker camp. There are plenty of amenities including a dump station, flush toilets, and firewood for sale.

14. Floras Lake State Park

Floras Lake may not be one of the most visited of the Oregon Coast state parks, but it is by no means any less beautiful. Parts of it are covered in thick forest and it is mostly undeveloped, which only adds to its beauty. It contains a natural coastal lake, a remote promontory, and plenty of unspoiled beaches.

Things to do: Hiking and exploring are the best ways to experience this remote part of the Southern Oregon coastline. The lake itself is prized for its winds, making it the perfect spot for windsurfing.

View of beach and sea cliffs at Floras Lake State Park on the Oregon Coast — Floras Lake State Park on the Oregon Coast

Best Hikes: Floras Lake Waterfall Trail (5.3 miles, moderate, out and back) – This trail offers the best of everything, a lake, ocean, woods, stunning rock formations, sandstone walls, and the grand finale – a stunning waterfall. Be sure to take the time to enjoy the falls at the end, it’s certainly a hidden gem.

Camping: Camping is available at Floras Lake on the shores of the lake itself, offering you stunning views when you wake up in the morning. Camping here is pretty rustic, but there are no fees, so pitch your tent and fall asleep to the sound of the waves.

15. Cape Blanco State Park

Cape Blanco State Park is perched right on the state’s most western tip, meaning the views over the Pacific Ocean are pretty impressive. It is also perhaps the windiest of the Oregon Coast state parks, with the wind battering the twisted Sitka spruces that have lain on the headland for years.

But don’t let this put you off, the 1,880-acre park offers trails, beach access a lighthouse, tons of wildlife and so much more.

Lighthouse in distance at Cape Blanco Oregon Coast State Park — Cape Blanco Lighthouse

Things to do: The lighthouse is one of the biggest draws of the park. Built in 1870, it is the oldest standing lighthouse on the Oregon Coast. There are over 8-miles of hiking trails to enjoy for avid walkers and a 7-mile equestrian trail, with a 150-acre open riding area.

Best Hike: Pacific View Trail (1 mile, easy, out and back) – For some of the best vistas of the ocean, the Pacific View Trail will take you along the cliffs to viewpoints of the lighthouse and beyond.

Camping: The campground has 52 electrical sites with water, which are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. There is also a group camp, horse camp, and a few cabins. The campground has flush toilets, hot showers, and firewood for sale.

16. Humbug Mountain State Park

Covering nearly 1850 acres, Humbug Mountain State Park is surrounded by rolling, forested hills, with Humbug Mountain itself dominating its center. The surrounding mountains mean the park enjoys some of the warmest weather compared to other Oregon Coast state parks and is home to a wide variety of birds, deers, and even the odd bear and mountain lion.

Things to do: Hiking is the main activity within the park, but nature and whale watching, cycling, and relaxing on the beach can all be enjoyed here.

Coastal views of Humbug Mountain State Park, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks — Humbug Mountain State Park on the Oregon Coast

Best Hike: Humbug Mountain Trail (5.1 miles, moderate, loop) – No trip to the park would be complete without taking on the mighty Humbug Mountain. At 1756-feet, it is one of the tallest mountains in the state to rise directly from the ocean. The only level area is at the peak, which means you are either heading up or heading down, but the views from the top make all the effort worth it.

Camping: There are 39 electrical sites and 56 tent sites available at the park, with a few amenities to make your stay more comfortable. All electrical sites are 50 amp service, and firewood is available to purchase on-site.

17. Samuel H. Boardman

Imagine craggy bluffs, secluded rocky outcrops, and dramatic rock formations, and you have Samuel H. Boardman, a stunningly scenic spot on the Oregon Coast.

The corridor is one of Oregon’s best-kept secrets, located down in the southwest corner of Oregon, a little off the beaten trail. It stretches for 12-miles along the coast and is full of huge Sitka spruce and tiny sandy beaches.

Person standing on cliff and looking out to the ocean and rocky islands in Samuel H Boardman, one of the Oregon Coast State Parks

Things to do: The scenery is the main thing to see in the park, and there are plenty of notable viewpoints you should try to take in if you have the time. Some of the main viewpoints include Arch Rock, Spruce Island, Thunder Rock Cove, North Island, Thomas Creek Bridge, and plenty of others. If you have a bit more time, be sure to hit up some of the trails.

Best Hike: Natural Bridges Cove (0.5 miles, moderate, out and back) – If you have seen a picture of Samuel H Boardman before, there is no doubt you would have seen the scenic corridor that can be admired throughout this trail.

You’ll be taken to the natural arches, and the views from the top are pretty phenomenal. There is a lot of climbing and scrambling, so although short, it is quite a strenuous climb.

18. Alfred A. Loeb State Park

Known lovingly as Loeb by the locals, Alfred A. Loeb State Park is a unique Oregon Coast state park, set deep in a grove of Mrtylewood Trees. As a very quiet park, it offers the perfect escape from busy day-to-day life, with the pristine Chetco River running clear along the south-east edge of the park.

Things to do: Fish, swim, or raft along the beautiful river, or if you prefer to stay on dry land, take the self-guided Riverview trail. Throughout the summer months, the park is alive with wildlife thanks to its remote setting, making it a mecca for nature lovers.

Hiking trail in the forest at Alfred A. Loeb - Oregon Coast State Parks — Trail in Alfred A. Loeb State Park on the Oregon Coast

Redwood forest in Alfred A. Loeb Oregon Coast State Park — Trail in Alfred A. Loeb State Park on the Oregon Coast

Best Hike: Nature Trail (2.4 miles, easy, loop) – There are plenty of hikes in the park, providing an easy way to witness the ancient trees in the area – one of the best is the Nature Trail. It will take you to see some of the remaining giant redwoods while also taking you right along the river.

Camping: There are 48 electrical sites available in the park that are available all year round. There are hot showers, flush toilets, firewood, and picnic facilities available.

19. Harris Beach State Park

Harris Beach is located on the south coast of Oregon, offering plenty of trails, sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, and plenty of seascapes that would satisfy even the keenest photographer. Bird Island is a National Wildlife Sanctuary and is a breeding site for rare birds, making it a hot spot for bird watchers.

Things to do: Enjoy beachside picnicking while taking in the views of the sea stacks out in the ocean. Bring your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for rare birds like the tufted puffin, or watch gray whales on their winter and spring migrations.

View out to ocean with rocky coastline in the foreground at Harris Beach State Park on the Oregon Coast — Harris Beach State Park on the Oregon Coast

Best Hikes: Harris Beach Trail to Harris Butte (0.6 miles, easy, out and back) – It is a steep walk up the butte, which may be a little tough on the calves, but the payoff is incredible. You’ll be able to take in views of the beach below you from this lofty viewpoint before making your way down.

Camping: Book a stay at Harris Beach in either the full-hookup, electrical, or tent sites and enjoy a wonderful camping experience with the ocean on your doorstep. The campground is sheltered by trees and is just a quarter of a mile from the beach.