Summary of Fun Activities in Reedsport, Oregon
Reedsport is a small town on the Oregon Coast, located where the Umpqua River flows into the Pacific Ocean. This picturesque location is nestled in the heart of the renowned Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. These unique features combine to make Reedsport a delightful destination, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Below are some of the top activities to engage in while visiting Reedsport, Oregon.
Umpqua Discovery Center
While somewhat hidden, Reedsport’s Umpqua Discovery Center is undoubtedly worth a visit. The museum comprises two distinct wings: one focusing on the natural history and the other on human history. Exhibits are thoughtfully crafted to captivate both children and adults alike. The natural history section features a simulated hike titled “Pathways To Discovery – Exploring Tidewater Country.” This immersive experience is enriched by detailed murals showcasing the unique flora and fauna indigenous to the area. Throughout this journey, interpretive signs, various exhibits, drawers, and recordings provide insights into local wildlife and landscapes. Don’t miss the theater “cave,” where you can watch engaging short films. The other section, “Tidewaters & Time,” lets you traverse through history, uncovering the richness of local culture through diverse sights and sounds, including insights into the Coastal Indian Tribes, early explorers, pioneers, loggers, fishermen, and initial settlement. Additionally, the center features a delightful gift shop offering a range of items including nautical goods, educational toys, and more. Set along the Umpqua River, the museum boasts decks and boardwalks that provide stunning views of Reedsport’s bridges and estuarine environment. For an even broader perspective, ascend the stairs to the viewing tower.
Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
The iconic Umpqua Lighthouse is situated within an active U.S. Coast Guard facility, offering scheduled tours for visitors. Adjacent to the lighthouse, the Coastal Visitor Center & Museum, housed in the former Coast Guard Administration Building, showcases intriguing exhibits and artifacts that reflect the area’s Coast Guard history. Visitors to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park can also partake in a wide range of outdoor activities, including camping, walking along scenic trails, whale watching, and picnicking.
Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area
Traveling east from Reedsport on Highway 38 will lead you to the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area, which is home to a magnificent herd of Roosevelt elk. This viewing area spans a 3-mile stretch along Oregon Highway 38, featuring two dedicated viewing points and numerous observation pull-outs. Additionally, the Dean Creek Elk area is equipped with outdoor interpretive exhibits, enhancing your understanding of the elk and various local flora and fauna. On the opposite side of Highway 38, another Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site, the O.H. Hinsdale Rhododendron Garden, awaits exploration.
Oregon Dunes NRA Visitor Center
Conveniently located along Highway 101 in Reedsport, the official visitor center for the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is staffed by knowledgeable park rangers ready to assist. Here, visitors can discover comprehensive information regarding Oregon Dunes activities, as well as explore other local attractions. The Oregon Dunes NRA Visitor Center features several interpretive exhibits, alongside a small shop offering gifts and educational materials.
