Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site
Oregon State Park

Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site

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

🌤 Weather at Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site by season

SpringSummerFallWinter
40–58 °F50–64 °F42–66 °F38–52 °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 Newport 1 SE, 1 mi away, elevation 8 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.

Compiled by the America’s State Parks Editorial Team from official state park agency sources. Fees, seasons and hours change — verify with the park office before you go.

Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site is a public state park in Oregon near Newport. Spanning 32 acres and established in 1871, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.

Quick Facts

StateOregon
Nearest CityNewport
Park Size32 acres
Established1871
Google Rating⭐ 4.5/5 (400 reviews)

Location & Getting There

Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site is located near Newport, Oregon. The park’s coordinates are 44.6242, -124.0628.

Explore More Oregon State Parks

Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site 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

Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site preserves the grounds surrounding the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse (1871) — one of the oldest surviving structures on the Oregon coast and the only Oregon lighthouse with living quarters still attached. The lighthouse sits on a bluff overlooking the entrance to Yaquina Bay — one of the most important commercial fishing ports on the Oregon coast. The bay supports Dungeness crab, shrimp, and oyster fisheries. Harbor seals rest on the bay’s sand flats. California sea lions — distinguishable by their barking calls and external ear flaps — haul out on the bay docks. The bluff’s coastal forest supports Steller’s jays, chestnut-backed chickadees, and varied thrushes. The lighthouse is reportedly haunted — the ghost story of Muriel is one of Oregon’s most enduring legends.

Nearby Attractions

Oregon Coast Aquarium — one of North America’s top aquariums — features a walk-through shark tunnel. Newport Bayfront has working fishing boats, seafood restaurants, and sea lion viewing. Hatfield Marine Science Center (Oregon State University) offers free marine science exhibits. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area has Oregon’s tallest lighthouse. Nye Beach — Newport’s historic arts district — has galleries and boutiques. Rogue Ales Brewery on the Bayfront.

More parks nearby: South Beach State Park is a short drive away, while Agate Beach State Recreation Site lies 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 Yaquina Bay State Recreation 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 Yaquina Bay State Recreation 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

Last updated: May 12, 2026

Park Location

Newport, OR

Plan your gear for Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site

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