🌤 Weather at Geisel Monument State Heritage Site by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 43–62 °F | 50–69 °F | 45–69 °F | 42–55 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Gold Beach Ranger Station, 6 mi away, elevation 50 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🪦 Geisel Monument — A small, secluded picnic area and grave site on Highway 101 near Gold Beach, tied to the Rogue River Indian Wars
Geisel Monument State Heritage Site is a small roadside site along Highway 101 near Gold Beach in Curry County, Oregon. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) describes it as the historic site of a Rogue Indian war skirmish. The park contains the grave sites of the Geisel family.
The wayside includes the graves of John Geisel and his three sons, who were killed on February 22, 1856, during the Rogue River Indian Wars.
OPRD calls it a peaceful, secluded picnic area to enjoy while traveling along Highway 101. The site covers about 4.1 acres and offers picnicking and exhibit information. There is no campground, and OPRD does not require a day-use parking permit.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Highway 101 near Gold Beach, Curry County, OR |
| Size | about 4.1 acres (OPRD) |
| Facilities | Picnicking, exhibit information |
| Camping | None (day use only) |
| Day-use permit | Free (no day-use parking permit required) |
Things to Do
- Picnic in what OPRD calls a peaceful, secluded spot off Highway 101.
- Read the exhibit information about the site.
- Visit the graves of John Geisel and his three sons, and of Geisel’s widow.
History
OPRD says the site was acquired in 1930 and 1931 through gifts from the Macleay Estate Company and from F. B. and Martha Postel.
Geisel’s widow, who died years later, in 1899, is also buried at this location.
Visitor Tips
- This is a short stop on Highway 101: OPRD’s facility list for the site shows picnicking and exhibit information only, and it does not list restrooms.
- The site is a burial ground, so keep it quiet and leave the graves undisturbed.
- OPRD lists 541-332-6774 for questions about the site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I camp at Geisel Monument State Heritage Site?
No. This is a day-use site and OPRD lists no overnight camping here.
Who is buried at Geisel Monument?
OPRD says the wayside includes the graves of John Geisel and his three sons, who were killed on February 22, 1856, during the Rogue River Indian Wars. Geisel’s widow, who died in 1899, is also buried here.
Does it cost anything to visit?
No. OPRD does not charge a day-use fee here, so no day-use parking permit is required.
Nearby Attractions
Geisel Monument is on the south coast, and the closest state parks on this site are Otter Point State Recreation Site, 2.3 miles away, and Sisters Rock State Park, 7.3 miles away. Arizona Beach State Recreation Site is 8.6 miles away and Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor is 10.8 miles away. All distances are in a straight line.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Otter Point State Recreation Site (a short drive away) and Sisters Rock State Park (a short drive away).
🪦 Visit Geisel Monument State Heritage Site
Current status, alerts and directions from Oregon State Parks.
Sources: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) park page; U.S. Census Bureau geocoder (county). As of October 2026.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Geisel Monument State Heritage Site
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet required in developed park areas
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are allowed on most ocean beaches under direct control; western snowy plover nesting areas restrict pets March 15 - Sept. 15; leash required on the beach at some parks (e.g. Cape Lookout)
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Designated pet-friendly yurts and cabins at many parks (South Beach has 14 pet-friendly yurts, Tugman 8); maximum two dogs and/or cats; $10 per night pet fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $10 per night for pet-friendly yurts/cabins; no pet fee for day use or campsites
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at Dabney SRA, the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls, and Shore Acres; off-leash areas at Stub Stewart, Willamette Mission, Elijah Bristow, Cottonwood Canyon and LaPine
Are dogs allowed at Geisel Monument State Heritage Site?
Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via stateparks.oregon.gov. More: Oregon state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
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