(Last Updated On: February 20, 2023)

sunset over the pacific ocean at Cape Lookout State Park

If you love the beach, then you will definitely want to head to Cape Lookout State Park.

Situated in Tillamook County, about an hour and a half from Portland, it is situated on a scenic headland along the Oregon Coast. It offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors, including hiking, beachcombing, and picnicking.

One of the highlights of Cape Lookout State Park is the scenic hike to the park’s historic lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. The park also has several miles of pristine beach that are perfect for beachcombing and exploring tide pools, as well as a number of picnic areas with tables and grills.

This Oregon state park also has a campground that offers over 200 campsites for tents and RVs, as well as several yurts and deluxe cabins. The park’s campground is located in a wooded area near the beach and provides easy access to the park’s many recreational opportunities.

In addition to its recreational opportunities, Cape Lookout State Park is also a popular destination for bird watching, with several species of seabirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl that can be seen in the park and surrounding areas.

Activities

During your visit to Cape Lookout State Park, you will be able to enjoy a wide selection of recreational activities within it.

Showcased below is an overview of some of the most popular pursuits you can partake in while there.

waves crash against the coast at Cape Lookout State Park

Lighthouse at Cape Lookout State Park

One of the main attractions at Cape Lookout State Park is its historic lighthouse.

Built in 1856, it is located at the end of a 2.5-mile trail that winds through the park’s coastal forest. Visitors who hike to it will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. They will also get the chance to learn about the history of the lighthouse and the lives of the lighthouse keepers who lived and worked there.

The lighthouse at Cape Lookout State Park is not open for tours, but visitors are welcome to hike to the top of the lighthouse to take in the views.

The trail to the lighthouse is steep and can be challenging in places, but it is well worth the effort for the views and the sense of history that visitors will experience.

Beach at Cape Lookout State Park

Aside from the lighthouse, the beach at Cape Lookout State Park is also a big drawcard.

Nestled on a spit of land that extends into the Pacific Ocean, it provides stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding coastline.

Visitors to the beach at Cape Lookout State Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, beach-combing, and picnicking.

people on the beach at Cape Lookout State Park

Fishing at Cape Lookout State Park

The beach is also a popular spot for fishing.

In fact, as it is located on the coast of Oregon, it provides access to some of the best fishing opportunities in the area.

Anglers who are interested in casting a line at Cape Lookout State Park can do so from the beach or from a boat. The park has several launch sites for boats and kayaks, and visitors are welcome to bring their own watercraft or rent one from a local outfitter.

The waters around the beach are home to a variety of fish species, including salmon, rockfish, lingcod, and crab. Visitors should check the park’s fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses or permits before fishing.

Hiking at Cape Lookout State Park

As well as walking on the beach, visitors to the park can also choose to hike around the area.

Cape Lookout State Park is home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline.

The 2.5 mile trail to the historic lighthouse is by far the most popular. However, there are also several other hiking trails that offer a variety of experiences, from easy walks along the beach to tougher treks through the park’s coastal forest.

Visitors are encouraged to check the park’s trail map and to follow any rules and regulations that are in place to protect its natural and cultural resources.

hiking trail through the woods at Cape Lookout State Park

Pets at Cape Lookout State Park

Visitors are welcome to bring their pets with them to Cape Lookout State Park, though it is worth being mindful that several restrictions are in place.

This includes them being restrained on a handheld lease of no longer than six feet in length throughout their time in the park. This rule is in place to protect both the park’s natural and cultural resources and to ensure the safety of other visitors and their pets.

It’s also important to note that dogs are not allowed on the park’s beaches or on the trail to the lighthouse, as these areas are designated as protected wildlife habitats.

For more information about bringing pets to Cape Lookout State Park, it is recommended to contact the park’s main office.

Camping at Cape Lookout State Park

Camping is one of the most popular of all recreational activities at Cape Lookout State Park.

Overall, the park has over 200 campsites for tents and RVs in their campground, as well as several yurts and deluxe cabins.

This facility is located in a wooded area near the beach and provides plenty of shade. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and typically fill up quickly during the peak season, so it is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot.

Amenities at it include restroom facilities with showers, picnic tables, fire pits, and drinking water.

Campers should note that the park has a strict policy against fires outside designated fire rings and camp stoves.

Park Location

Cape Lookout State Park
13000 Whiskey Creek Rd
Tillamook, OR 97141
Phone: 800.551.6949

Park Website
Reservations

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Cape Lookout State Park: