HARRIS BEACH STATE PARK
Harris Beach was named after the Scottish pioneer George Harris who settled here in the late 1880s to raise sheep and cattle. The park boasts the largest island off the Oregon coast. Bird Island (also called Goat Island) is a National Wildlife Sanctuary and breeding site for such rare birds as the tufted puffin. The park offers sandy beaches interspersed with eroded sea stacks.
The park's beauty changes with the seasons. Many people are drawn to watch the powerful and dramatic winter storms; others seek the green and fragrant spring (download a brochure about common area plants). Summer brings warm days and sunlit beaches while the fall brings clear cool days and often the best sunsets of the year. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant (download a brochure about common area animals), with gray whales on their winter and spring migrations, Harbor seals, California sea lions, sea birds and the rich marine gardens make the park a fascinating stop.
Located in the southern part of Oregon, near Brookings, this natural haven was named after George Scott Harris. He was a Scottish pioneer who settled on these lands in the late 19th century and developed them into dairy farms.
The area became recognized for its stunning beauty featuring sandy beaches, rocky outcrops and diverse wildlife including rare bird species such as Tufted Puffins. The park also boasts one of Oregon's largest island - Bird Island (also known as Goat Island), which is a National Wildlife Sanctuary.
In an effort to preserve its unique ecosystem and make it accessible for public enjoyment, the state acquired land from several owners between 1926-1957 with funds provided by State Park Bonds. It officially opened up to visitors around mid-twentieth century offering camping facilities along with day-use areas that included picnic spots overlooking panoramic ocean views.
Over time additional amenities were added like RV hookups sites during early seventies followed by yurts introduced towards end nineties providing comfortable lodging options within nature's lap.
Day-UseSwimming Beachyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
Full Hookup Sitesyes
1. RV Camping: Harris Beach State Park offers full-hookup sites for those with recreational vehicles.
2. Tent Camping: There are numerous tent camping spots available within the park, some of which offer beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding nature.
3. Yurts: For a unique experience, you can rent one of six yurts in the campground year-round; two pet-friendly (one accessible).
4. Group Camps: The park also has group camp facilities that include picnic tables and fire pits - perfect for larger gatherings or family reunions.
5. Hiker/Biker Campsites: These campsites are specifically designed to accommodate hikers or bikers who may be traveling through on foot or by bicycle.
6. ADA Accessible Sites: Several sites at this state park have been adapted so they're fully accessible to people with disabilities.
7. Picnic Areas & Day-Use Area: If you're not planning an overnight stay but still want to enjoy all that Harris Beach State Park has to offer, there's plenty space where visitors can set up picnics during daytime hours.
1. Harris Beach State Park offers a variety of swimming options for visitors.
2. The park is home to the beautiful and expansive Pacific Ocean beach, perfect for ocean swimmers.
3. Low tide reveals tidal pools that are safe and fun for children to splash around in.
4. For those who prefer freshwater, there's nearby Garrison Lake which allows swimming as well.
5. Lifeguards aren't present at these locations so ensure you're confident with your or your family's swimming abilities before entering water bodies.
Located on the Southern Oregon Coast, this park offers fishing opportunities in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Anglers can fish from shore or by boat for species such as salmon, steelhead trout, rockfish and lingcod. The nearby Chetco River is known for its run of king salmon during fall months while Brookings Harbor provides access to deep sea fishing charters targeting halibut and tuna among others. Crabbing is also popular within the harbor area.
Harris Beach State Park is located near Brookings
Harris Beach State Park offers picnic tables, BBQ grills and covered areas. Enjoy ocean views while eating your packed lunch.
While exploring the park, be aware that biking is only allowed on paved roads and not trails.
The terrain can vary greatly so ensure you're prepared for hills and potentially steep inclines.
Remember to always wear a helmet when cycling in this area due to safety regulations.
Bike rentals are unavailable within the park boundaries; bring your own or rent from nearby towns beforehand.
Be cautious of wildlife crossing paths while riding as it's common here especially during dawn/dusk hours.
Respect other visitors by maintaining reasonable speeds and keeping noise levels low whilst enjoying your ride.
Always adhere strictly to posted signs regarding bike routes for safe navigation around campgrounds & picnic areas.
During peak season, expect heavy pedestrian traffic which may limit speed or require dismounting at times.
Nighttime bicycling isn't advised because lighting along pathways is minimal - plan accordingly!
In wet weather conditions, take extra care as surfaces might become slippery increasing risk of accidents.
1. Harris Beach Trail: This is the main trail that leads to a beautiful sandy beach with stunning views of Bird Island, which is one of Oregon's largest bird nesting sites.
2. North Island Viewpoint Trail: A short and easy hike leading up to an elevated viewpoint overlooking the northern part of Bird Island.
3. South Jetty Walkway: An accessible paved path offering panoramic ocean views as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing including seals, sea lions and various birds species.
4. Treewoods Nature Trail Loop: A 0.5-mile loop through lush coastal forest featuring interpretive signs about local flora and fauna; suitable for all skill levels due its flat terrain.
5. Arch Rock Picnic Area Pathways: These are several small trails around picnic area providing access to viewpoints over dramatic rock formations in the Pacific Ocean known as "Arch Rocks".
6. Sea Stack Viewpoint Trails: Short paths branching off from campground areas towards cliffs edge where hikers can enjoy breathtaking vistas on towering offshore rocks or 'sea stacks'.
7. Tide Pool Exploration Paths: Numerous unofficial tracks descending down rocky slopes at low tide revealing fascinating marine life within tidal pools along shoreline below park's western boundary.
8. Overlook Bench Access Track: Steep but brief climb onto bluff top seating spot affording expansive seascape panoramas especially during sunset hours.
9. Campground Perimeter Walking Route: Gentle stroll encircling camping grounds amidst mature trees ideal for casual walks or morning jogs without leaving facility premises.
10. Upper Meadow Wildlife Observation Way: Tranquil grassland pathway frequented by deer, rabbits plus numerous songbirds making it perfect choice among nature enthusiasts seeking peaceful ambience away from bustling coastlines.
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species like the rare tufted puffin, Aleutian geese and other migratory birds. The park's diverse habitats attract a wide range of birdlife year-round. Birding is best during migration seasons in spring and fall.
1. If you're coming from Portland or other northern areas, start by taking I:5 South towards Medford.
2. Continue on I:5 until reaching Exit 55 for US-199 S/Redwood Highway toward Grants Pass/Crescent City.
3. Take exit 55 and merge onto US:199 S/Redwood Hwy heading southbound.
4. Follow US:199 S for approximately 80 miles until you reach Crescent City, California.
5. In Crescent City, take a right turn onto CA:Hwy 101 N/Samoa Blvd (signs will indicate "Oregon Coast").
6. Continue driving north on Hwy 101 through several small towns including Harbor and Gold Beach.
7. After about an hour of driving along the coast from Crescent city,you'll arrive at Harris Beach State Park which will be clearly marked with signs directing you into the park entrance.