Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
Where Lighthouse, Dunes & Whales Meet
Umpqua Lighthouse State Park sits at the crossroads of Oregon’s most dramatic coastal landscapes—the historic Umpqua River Lighthouse, the vast Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, and serene Lake Marie. Located near Winchester Bay on the southern Oregon coast, this year-round park offers camping, whale watching, hiking, and dune exploration just minutes from world-class crabbing and fishing.
🐋 Whale Watch Weeks! Oregon hosts two annual whale watching events: Winter (late December) and Spring (late March). Volunteers station at observation points to help visitors spot Gray whales migrating along the coast.
Umpqua River Lighthouse
The current lighthouse was built in 1894, replacing the original 1857 structure that was undermined by coastal erosion. Standing 65 feet tall, the lighthouse features a distinctive red and white flash pattern visible 19 miles out to sea. The adjacent Coastal Visitor Center houses exhibits on local maritime history, and lighthouse tours are available seasonally.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏗️ Built | 1894 (original 1857) |
| 📏 Height | 65 feet |
| 💡 Light Range | 19 nautical miles |
| 🎟️ Tours | May–October (check seasonal schedule) |
| 🏛️ Visitor Center | Year-round, free admission |
Oregon Dunes
The park borders the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America, stretching 40 miles along the coast. While the park itself offers non-motorized dune access for walking, sand sledding, and photography, OHV riding areas are nearby.
| Activity | Where | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🚶 Dune Walking | Park dunes area | Non-motorized only, free access |
| 🛷 Sand Sledding | Park dunes area | Bring your own sled/board |
| 🏎️ OHV/Dune Buggies | Umpqua Beach #3 (1.5 mi away) | Rentals in Reedsport/Winchester Bay |
| 📸 Photography | Throughout | Sunset over dunes is spectacular |
Lake Marie & Trails
The park’s 1-mile Lake Marie Nature Trail loops around a tranquil freshwater lake surrounded by coastal forest. This easy, family-friendly trail is leash-friendly for dogs and offers excellent birdwatching. The nearby Umpqua Dunes Scenic Area Loop (1.6 mi) offers a more adventurous trek through towering sand formations.
Camping & Lodging
The campground is open year-round, offering diverse accommodations in a forested setting near the coast.
| Type | Sites | Season | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Hookup RV | 24 | Year-round | Water, electric, sewer, WiFi |
| Tent Sites | 24 | Year-round | Fire ring, picnic table |
| Yurts | 8 (2 pet-friendly) | Year-round | Heater, lights, lockable door |
| Rustic Cabins | 6 (2 pet-friendly) | Year-round | Bunk beds, electricity |
| Deluxe Cabins | 2 | Year-round | Kitchen, bathroom, TV |
📅 Reserve up to 6 months in advance: ReserveAmerica or call 1-800-452-5687. Flush toilets and showers available to registered campers.
Whale Watching & Wildlife
The Oregon coast is one of the best places in North America to spot Gray whales from shore. Peak viewing occurs during migration seasons, but resident whales can be seen year-round. The park area also supports bald eagles, osprey, harbor seals, and sea lions.
Whale Watch Schedule
| Event | When | Migration |
|---|---|---|
| Winter Whale Watch Week | Late December | Southbound to Baja California |
| Spring Whale Watch Week | Late March | Northbound to Alaska |
| Resident Whales | Year-round | ~200 stay off Oregon coast |
Winchester Bay & Nearby
The charming fishing village of Winchester Bay is just minutes away, offering world-class Dungeness crab fishing, charter boats, fresh seafood restaurants, and the Salmon Harbor Marina. The town of Reedsport provides additional services and the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area, where herds of Roosevelt elk graze year-round.
Can I drive on the dunes at the park?
No. The dunes within Umpqua Lighthouse State Park are non-motorized only. The nearest OHV staging area is Umpqua Beach #3, about 1.5 miles away. Dune buggy rentals are available in Reedsport and Winchester Bay.
When is the best time to see whales?
The best viewing is during Winter Whale Watch Week (late December) and Spring Whale Watch Week (late March), when thousands of Gray whales migrate past the Oregon coast. About 200 resident whales can also be spotted year-round.
Are pets allowed in the yurts?
Yes, 2 of the 8 yurts and 2 of the 6 rustic cabins are designated as pet-friendly. Pets must be leashed and are welcome on the Lake Marie trail. Book pet-friendly units early as they fill quickly.
Can I tour the lighthouse?
Lighthouse tours are typically available May through October. The adjacent Coastal Visitor Center is open year-round with free admission, featuring maritime history exhibits and information about the Oregon Dunes.
Explore More Oregon State Parks
Umpqua Lighthouse 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.
Insider Tips
Coastal dunes: Umpqua Lighthouse combines a historic lighthouse (1894) with access to the Oregon Dunes — the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America. Pro tip: Lake Marie, adjacent to the campground, offers warm-water swimming — unusual on the cool Oregon Coast. Whale watching: The lighthouse area is an excellent whale-watching point.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Lake swimming and dune exploration. Spring: Whale watching and wildflowers. Fall: Fewer crowds. Winter: Storm watching and whale migration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I climb the Umpqua Lighthouse?
Yes. The Umpqua River Lighthouse offers guided tours and tower climbs during summer months. Built in 1894, it’s the only lighthouse on the Oregon Coast that displays a distinctive red and white light pattern. The museum at the base details the region’s maritime history.
Park Location
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