Port Orford Heads State Park
Oregon State Park

Port Orford Heads State Park

Port Orford, OR
Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Rock Climbing
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Mountain Biking
  • Paddleboarding
  • Surfing
  • Beachcombing
  • Whale Watching
  • Kayaking
  • Biking

🌤 Weather at Port Orford Heads State Park by season

SpringSummerFallWinter
42–61 °F51–68 °F44–67 °F41–55 °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 Port Orford #2, 1 mi away, elevation 42 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.

Verified by America\’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated March 2026

Port Orford Heads State Park is a public state park in Oregon near Port Orford. Spanning 103 acres and established in 1976, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.

Quick Facts

StateOregon
Nearest CityPort Orford
Park Size103 acres
Established1976
Google Rating⭐ 4.6/5 (450 reviews)

Location & Getting There

Port Orford Heads State Park is located near Port Orford, Oregon. The park\’s coordinates are 42.7400, -124.5136.

Explore More Oregon State Parks

Port Orford Heads State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Oregon. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Oregon guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.

Wildlife & Nature

Port Orford Heads State Park occupies a dramatic headland overlooking the Pacific — the site of a former Coast Guard lifeboat station (1934-1970) that rescued mariners from some of the most treacherous waters on the Oregon coast. The headland provides exceptional wildlife viewing — gray whales migrate past in winter and spring, while resident grays feed here year-round. Harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and occasional northern elephant seals rest on the rocks below. The headland\’s wildflower displays — including coast buckwheat, sea thrift, and wild iris — peak in spring and early summer. Peregrine falcons hunt from the cliffs. The Tichenor Cove viewpoint reveals Port Orford\’s unique dolly dock — the only port in the US where boats are lifted by crane.

Nearby Attractions

Battle Rock Beach in Port Orford commemorates an 1851 conflict between settlers and Qua-to-mah people. Humbug Mountain State Park offers a 1,756-foot coastal mountain hike. Cape Blanco — Oregon\’s westernmost point — has the state\’s oldest lighthouse (1870). Hughes House (1898) is a preserved Victorian ranch. Elk River provides pristine salmon and steelhead fishing. Grassy Knob Wilderness protects old-growth Port Orford cedar. Prehistoric Gardens has life-sized dinosaur models in old-growth forest.

Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Humbug Mountain State Park (a short drive away) and Cape Blanco State Park (a short drive away).

America's State Parks is an independent online guide to the state parks of the United States. Our editorial team compiles and reviews each park profile from official state park agency sources and other primary references, and follows a published editorial and review methodology (see /editorial-review-methodology/). We update profiles and correct errors on an ongoing basis.

🐾 Dogs & Pets at Port Orford Heads State Park

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 Port Orford Heads State Park?
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

Last updated: May 11, 2026

Park Location

Port Orford, OR

Plan your gear for Port Orford Heads State Park

From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities: