Your South Coast adventure awaits, crowds not included.
Who We Are
Welcome to the Southern Oregon Coast, a region steeped in history with an unbreakable bond to nature. Known as the Wild Rivers Coast, here you will find the highest concentration of nationally designated Wild and Scenic rivers in the country. Where rivers ramble down mountains, through forests, and out to sea, we invite you to come explore the countless off-the-beaten-path adventures that await.
Enjoy year-round fishing, boating, cycling, hiking, birding, windsurfing, beach-going, and so much more. Our landscapes are rugged, our air is salty, our atmosphere is serene, and our temperatures are moderate year-round.
This is truly a place where you can recreate and unwind. Sorry… crowds not included.
Oregon Indigenous Tribes
Indigenous people have inhabited what is now Oregon since time immemorial, with cultures as rich and diverse as the landscapes they live on. Today, members of the nine federally recognized tribes in Oregon carry forward a deep knowledge of this place and traditions that have endured and evolved for thousands of years.
Three of these nine tribes make their home on the South Coast and are eager to share their stories of the past, present, and future, and to welcome you to their homeland. May the connections you make enrich your experiences on the Southern Oregon Coast.
Dunes, Fishing, & Water Adventures
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area & John Dellenback Trail: One of the largest expanses of temperate coastal sand dunes in the world, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area offers both adventure and solitude. Towering dunes, sculpted by the whims of wind and time, create an ethereal landscape that seems to extend beyond the horizon. Among the dunes’ most prized attractions is the John Dellenback Trail, a 2.7-mile non-motorized route that promises serenity as you hike through forest, over sand, and to the beach. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the park offers off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding, inviting you to glide across the dunes on a stirring off-road escapade.
William M. Tugman State Park: At the heart of Tugman State Park lies the immaculate Eel Lake, hosting an accessible paddle launch that awaits those eager to survey the lake’s hidden corners. Anglers will find themselves in delight as they cast their lines into the depths of the lake and reel in largemouth bass, crappie, trout, steelhead, and salmon. For those yearning to venture beyond the water’s edge, the park boasts unspoiled, forested trails that weave their way through the verdant expanse.
Tenmile Lake: With its calm waters and accessible paddle launch, Tenmile Lake is perfect for water skiing, wake boarding, sailing, kayaking, and swimming. Fishing enthusiasts will find ample angling opportunities with large populations of trout, bass, catfish, and bluegill. Surrounded by mountains and rich natural beauty, the lake is an idyllic setting for both peace and recreation.
Tidepools, Storms, & Wildlife
Sunset Bay State Park: For those interested in marine life and the marvels of the intertidal zone, Sunset Bay is a true haven. At low tide, the rocky shoreline reveals an array of tidepools teeming with life. Starfish, sea anemones, crabs, and colorful sea slugs are just a few of the mesmerizing creatures you may encounter during your explorations.
Shore Acres State Park: Renowned for its phenomenal storms, visitors come here to witness the raw power of nature. In winter, intense weather events create a breathtaking spectacle of crashing waves and vivid skies. In calmer seasons, the park’s thriving gardens and scenic trails offer amazing beauty and tranquility.
Cape Arago State Park: The highlight of any visit to Cape Arago is undoubtedly the chance to see the resident seals and sea lions. Simpson Reef and Shell Island Overlooks provide excellent vantage points for watching these playful marine mammals as they bask in the sun or frolic in the waves. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise with species such as cormorants, pelicans, and oystercatchers frequently spotted along the shore.
South Slough National Estuarine Reserve: Land, water, and sky converge here to create a charming oasis of flourishing forests, winding trails, and serene estuaries. The reserve is home to a lavish array of bird species, including eagles, herons, and sandpipers. Kayak silently along pristine, winding waterways to discover concealed coves and sheltered beaches. Every turn reveals a new perspective of the surrounding wilderness where you may spot otters, deer, and elk.
Fat-Tires, Horses, & Nature
Coquille Point: Providing some of the best views into the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Coquille Point abounds with wildlife. Thousands of marine mammals and seabirds call this area home, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. Coastal cliffs provide nesting grounds for a myriad of seabirds including murres, pelicans, gulls, cormorants, and the occasional tufted puffin. The area also features steps down to a wide beach where visitors can observe Elephant Rock and other bewitching rock formations. And, with its low tide access, miles of hard-packed sand, and the rock formations to navigate around, adventurist will find it perfect for fat-tire biking. Giant arches in some of the rocks allow you to ride right through.
Bullards Beach State Park: With its backdrop of windswept dunes and seemingly endless stretches of wide, sandy beach, this picturesque park is a refuge for outdoor devotees, especially those fond of horseback riding. Bullards Beach offers a horse camp and a variety of trails through the dunes and along the surf suitable for riders of any skill level. The park also owns a rich cultural history, including the historic Coquille River Lighthouse, which offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s nautical past.
Explore Vistas, History, & Conservation
Humbug Mountain State Park: As you enter the park, you’ll be greeted by the towering presence of Humbug Mountain, one of the highest points on the Pacific coast. The park boasts lush greenery, astounding vistas, and a plethora of recreational activities such as camping, hiking, and picnicking. Climb the moderate-to-difficult Humbug Mountain Trail to the summit for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean over verdant, rolling hills. For a more leisurely stroll, hike Old Highway 101 Trail, which follows the remnants of this historic highway. Both trails present a variety of terrain, from stony inclines to soft forest floors, ensuring that your hike is both engaging and enjoyable. Another short trail from the campground takes you to a secluded beach where you can catch the soothing sounds of the ocean and breathe in the fresh, salty air.
Port Orford Heads State Park: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the park contains several hiking trails and preserves the site of the Port Orford Lifeboat Station, which was built in 1934 to provide life-saving services to ships along the coast. A museum is now housed in the station, with artifacts and interpretive displays that make the past come alive. One of the park’s main trails, the Headlands, begins at the museum and is an easy loop through dense forest and onto an oceanside bluff. Revealing stunning vistas of sea stacks, isolated coves, and distant beaches, this trail enables you to experience the dramatic working environments described in the museum.
Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve: Red Rocks was one of the first two marine reserves in Oregon and is dedicated to preserving the vibrant biodiversity of the region. Its unique underwater landscape features rocky reefs, kelp forests, and a sandy seabed, providing diverse habitats for various species to flourish. Marine mammals, such as seals and sea lions, can sometimes be spotted taking advantage of the abundant fish populations. The reserve includes several notable dive sites, with crystal-clear waters offering incredible visibility. And, while diving is undoubtedly a highlight, there are numerous other outdoor recreational activities available here, such as kayaking and birdwatching.
Adventure on the Rogue
Otter Point State Recreation Site: One of the lesser-traveled public lands on the coast, this recreation area features hiking trails overlooking unspoiled beaches and distinctive sandstone formations chiseled by wind and waves. Otter Point Trail, the most popular trail at the site, provides a commanding view of the ocean, tidepools filled with colorful sea life, and some of the most amazing sunsets imaginable. Hike the several other trails from Bailey Beach to Agate Beach for a remarkable opportunity to observe wildlife and locate hidden coves tucked away along the shoreline.
Lower Rogue River: Paddle the Lower Rogue River for a memorable journey through the core of the Rogue River Estuary. Here, where river meets ocean, the estuary becomes a harbor for an astonishing array of plant and animal life. You’ll discover migratory birds, thriving fish populations, and even the occasional fun-loving seal or sea otter. This unique convergence of fresh and saltwater ecosystems creates a dynamic environment where you can witness nature’s delicate balance firsthand. The Lower Rogue River, one of the original rivers designated as a Wild & Scenic River, is also famous for salmon fishing and is the kick-off point for jet boat tours deep into the Rogue Wilderness.
Discover Inclusive Coastal Wonders
Harris Beach State Park: With its imposing cliffs, abundant forests, and spectacular ocean views, Harris Beach State Park has long been a treasured destination for both nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Its scenic coastline offers far-reaching vistas of sandy beaches, rugged headlands, and offshore islands. The monolithic sea stacks, rising majestically from the ocean, serve as a sanctuary for nesting seabirds, while tidepools teem with fascinating marine life. One of the park’s notable amenities is its accessibility. Harris Beach State Park takes pride in providing inclusive experiences for all visitors. The campground offers ADA-compliant sites, and ease of access extends to the beach, where wheelchair ramps and paved pathways allow individuals of all abilities to engage themselves in coastal wonders.
Oregon Redwoods Barrier Free Trail: A captivating retreat of accessibility and allure, this trail offers a quiet escape into ancient redwood forests and out to the beach with its sweeping perspective of the weathered coastline. This well-maintained and mobility-friendly trail is designed to accommodate all visitors, regardless of physical ability. Strategically-placed benches offer an exquisite opportunity for rest and reflection among the giant redwoods. Informative markers provide interesting insights into the flora and fauna that reside within this singular ecosystem.
Take Care Out There
Plan Ahead
Prepare before you head out, consider what you want to see and experience, your group’s physical abilities and what’s realistic to do in the time you have. Can you visit off peak to avoid crowds?
Be Ready
Check conditions. Pack your Ten Essentials. Got the right shoes for the terrain? Water? Cell phone? You may not always have coverage, so take a picture of the trail map or bring one with you. Consider hiring a guide.
Don’t Forget
Let someone know where you’re headed and when you plan to be back. Tuck some cash in your pocket for park fees (that help maintain our natural spaces).
Make Smart Choices
Know your limits and when to stop for the day. Follow the signs; they’re there to tell you important stuff like how to avoid injuries and not get lost.
Be Respectful
If you’re lucky enough to spot wildlife, use your zoom lens and observe from afar.
Share trails with others. Know who manages the land you access and what the rules and regulations are.
Keep It Natural
Stay on designated trails and areas to protect the landscape. Don’t take anything home but your trash—and please, please take your trash with you. Make wildfire prevention a top priority.
Enjoy Yourself
Experiencing the quiet, awe-inspiring beauty of nature can not only uplift your spirits, it can improve your health. Think of Oregon’s vast outdoors as your place to relax and recharge.
Say Hello
Greet fellow adventurers and spark a conversation. Check in at a visitor center, ranger station and/or local business to learn from the locals, grab a map and gather local insight.
Spread Goodwill
Share your knowledge with others if it’s helpful. Support the community— eat, drink, shop and stay local. Stop by cultural centers to learn our history and relationship to place.
