Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Oregon
Oregon Coast Region
South Beach State Park
Western Meadow Lark © stateparks.com
Western Meadow Lark
Small Boy Fishing © stateparks.com
Gone fishin.
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
SOUTH BEACH STATE PARK
South Beach State Park is a stunning coastal park that offers an array of outdoor activities and breathtaking views. The park features sandy beaches stretching along the Pacific Ocean coastline with lush greenery surrounding it. It provides numerous recreational opportunities such as hiking trails through dense forests teeming with wildlife, biking paths offering scenic vistas of the oceanfront landscape, picnic areas for family gatherings or quiet relaxation spots to enjoy nature's beauty. There are also camping facilities available including yurts and RV sites equipped with modern amenities for those who wish to stay overnight under starlit skies while listening to soothing sounds from crashing waves nearby.

History of the Area
Located in the Pacific Northwest, this coastal park was established by Oregon's state government during the 1930s. The land for it was acquired between 1933 and 1975 through purchases from private owners.

The development of facilities within its boundaries began under President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal program with work carried out by Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). This included constructing campgrounds, picnic areas, trails and other amenities that visitors enjoy today.

During World War II, a military radar station operated on site as part of America's defense system against potential Japanese attacks along the West Coast. Afterward, these structures were removed to restore natural landscapes while maintaining recreational features developed earlier.

In recent years there have been efforts towards conservation initiatives such as dune restoration projects aimed at preserving native plant species unique to this region like shore pine or beach grasses which are vital for stabilizing sand dunes against erosion caused by wind & water action over time.

Today it is one of most popular destinations among outdoor enthusiasts who visit annually drawn not only because they can explore miles-long sandy beaches but also hike forested trails leading up into nearby hills offering panoramic views across vast expanses where ocean meets sky; all providing ample opportunities whether you're interested in bird-watching wildlife photography camping fishing biking horseback riding etc., making sure everyone has something fun exciting do here no matter what their interests might be!
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseSwimming Beachyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Electric Sitesyes
 Water/Electric Sitesyes
 Full Hookup Sitesyes
Camping
1. South Beach State Park Campground: This campground offers over 200 campsites, including both tent and RV sites with electric hookups. There are also yachting facilities available.

2. Yurts: The park has several fully furnished yurts that can be rented for a unique camping experience. These round, sturdy tents come equipped with beds, heat, electricity and other amenities.

3. Group Tent Camping Area: For larger groups or family reunions there is an area specifically designed to accommodate group camping needs.

4. Hiker/Biker Campsites: If you're traveling on foot or by bike along the Oregon Coast Bike Route then these special hiker/bike campgrounds would suit your need best as they offer basic services like showers & restrooms at reasonable rates.

5. Deluxe Cabins: They have few deluxe cabins which comes up with more comfort features than standard ones such as TV , kitchen appliances etc.

6. RV Sites With Full Hookup: Some of their RV sites provide full hookup service i.e water , sewerage & electrical connections.

7. Picnic Shelters: Although not exactly a 'camping' option but if you just want to spend day in nature's lap without staying overnight this could be good choice . Picnic shelters here are well-equipped having BBQ grills tables benches etc.
Swimming
1. South Beach State Park offers ocean swimming, but waters can be cold and rough.
2. Lifeguards are not typically present at the beach; swim with caution.
3. The park is near Yaquina Bay which provides calmer water for swimming compared to the open sea.
4. Wetsuits are recommended due to chilly Pacific Ocean temperatures year-round.
5. Always check local tide information before going in as rip currents may occur during certain conditions.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is access to the Pacific Ocean, where one can enjoy activities like sailing and motor-boating. For those interested in kayaking or canoeing, there are opportunities on nearby Beaver Creek as well as Yaquina Bay which also allows jet skiing. The park provides boat ramps for easy water entry and exit but does not offer any rental services so guests must bring their own equipment.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the Pacific Ocean for species like salmon, halibut and rockfish. The nearby Yaquina Bay offers crabbing opportunities as well. Anglers can also fish for steelhead trout in Big Creek Reservoirs 1 & 2 during winter months.



Picnicking
South Beach State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, surrounded by beautiful coastal scenery. No reservations required.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore a paved trail that stretches for 3 miles. Be cautious of pedestrians and wildlife.

The park's terrain offers both flat, easy routes and more challenging paths to test your skills.

For those seeking an off-road experience, there are several unpaved trails available as well.

Remember to always wear helmets while biking in the area due to potential hazards on the path like loose gravel or tree roots.

Ensure you stay within designated bike lanes when they're provided; it helps protect local flora from damage by tires.

Nighttime cycling is not recommended because visibility decreases significantly after sunset which could lead to accidents with unseen obstacles.

Check weather conditions before embarking on any rides since rain may make certain pathways slippery and dangerous.

Always respect other visitors' space while riding - slow down around crowded areas or narrow passages where collisions might occur easily.

Lastly, be aware that some parts of this coastal region can get quite windy making bicycling difficult at times so plan accordingly!
Trails
1. South Jetty Trail: This trail is a 2-mile round trip that takes hikers to the south jetty of Yaquina Bay, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Newport's historic bayfront.

2. Cooper Ridge Nature Trail: A short but scenic loop through dense coastal forest with interpretive signs about local flora and fauna along its half mile length.

3. Old Growth Loop Trail: An easy one-mile hike showcasing some impressive old-growth trees in their natural habitat within this state park.

4. Beach Access Trails: Numerous trails provide direct access from campground areas to miles-long sandy beach for leisurely walks or sunset viewing experiences on Oregon's coastline.

5. Dune Area Paths: These are unmarked paths leading you into dunes area where visitors can explore sand dunes covered by European beach grasses while enjoying panoramic ocean view points.

6. Bike Path: Paved path stretching over three miles connecting campgrounds with nearby attractions like Newport Aquarium & Historic Lighthouse; suitable for family biking trips as well as walking or jogging sessions.

7. Interpretative Boardwalks: Short wooden boardwalk sections near camping sites providing insights into wetland ecosystems present inside State Park boundaries.

8. Wildlife Viewing Spots: Several off-trail spots scattered across hiking routes allowing birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts an opportunity to spot native species such as bald eagles, herons etc., amidst lush greenery.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting a variety of bird species, including shorebirds and raptors. The park's diverse habitats such as wetlands, forests and beaches attract different types of birds throughout the year. Visitors may also participate in guided bird walks offered by local experts.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
write a review
Share On

Area Campgrounds
Thousand Trails Whalers Rest
50 Southeast 123rd Street
, OR
541-867-6078
Outdoor Resorts Pacific Shores Motorcoach Resort
6225 North Highway 101
Newport, OR
Chinook RV Park
3299 Alsea Highway
Waldport, OR
541-563-3485
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
South Beach State Park is located in Newport, Oregon. To get there from the north, take Highway 101 southbound until you reach Newport. Once in Newport, continue on Highway 101 and look for signs directing you to South Beach State Park.

If coming from the south, drive north on Highway 101 until you arrive at Newport. Follow the highway through town and watch for signage indicating South Beach State Park.

Once inside the park area, follow any additional directional signs that will guide you to specific areas within South Beach State Park such as camping sites or beach access points.

The address of South Beach State Park is:

5580 SW Coast Hwy.
Newport,
OR 97366

Please note that parking fees may apply when visiting this state park.

state route ranger badge
Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

X