Headed out on spring break and planning to visit the Oregon coast? Below we offer a quick overview of some of our favorite federally-managed recreational places being impacted by the DOGE federal layoffs. The result in many places will be restricted hours of operation for access and visitor centers, cancelled tours and limited programming, and understaffed day-use facilities. Keep in mind the challenging staff morale and circumstances - visitors are encouraged to show up with a good attitude, some empathy and patience for the limited staff holding things together. When in doubt, call ahead and be kind!
The Oregon Coast and Coast Range are home to numerous federally managed recreation and scenic areas, offering a variety of natural landscapes and cultural sites that beckon visitors and outdoor enthusiasts. These areas collectively provide a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural heritage along the Oregon Coast and within the Coast Range, and put on offer a vast array of wild and scenic recreational activities and access.
Photo: The Yaquina Head Lighthouse is one of the most visited and photographed scenic areas on the Oregon coast, and it's managed by the Federal Bureau of Land Management. The federal layoffs has cut the park's staff nearly in half, expect limited hours, cancelled programming, tidepool and lighthouse tours.
Some favorite Oregon coast federally-managed recreation and visitation areas by agency:
1. U.S. Forest Service (USFS):
Siuslaw National Forest: Encompassing over 630,000 acres along the central Oregon Coast, this forest offers diverse ecosystems ranging from coastal forests to sand dunes. Recreational opportunities include camping, hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Notable areas within the forest are:
Cape Perpetua Visitor Center:
Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center offers interpretive exhibits, guided hikes, and educational programs about the coastal environment. The surrounding area features old-growth forests, tide pools, and stunning ocean vistas. Trails such as the Captain Cook Trail and the Giant Spruce Trail provide diverse hiking experiences.
Photo USFS: Coastal visitors take in the view at the overlook above the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: Stretching approximately 40 miles along the coast, this area features some of the largest coastal sand dunes in North America, reaching heights up to 500 feet. Activities include off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding, hiking, canoeing, and camping.
Marys Peak: The highest point in the Oregon Coast Range at 4,097 feet, offering panoramic views, hiking trails, and wildflower meadows.
USFS Campgrounds and Trails: The Siuslaw National Forest provides numerous campgrounds and trails suitable for various recreational activities.
Photo: The Cape Perpetua and Heceta Head stretch of coastline in Oregon is riddled with campgrounds, trails, visitor centers and beach access points, much under the management of the US Forest Service. The visitor center will have limited staff, programming and hours.
2. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS):
Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge protects over 1,800 small islands, rocks, and reefs along the Oregon coastline, serving as crucial nesting sites for seabirds and breeding grounds for pinnipeds. While the islands are closed to public access to protect wildlife, excellent viewing opportunities are available from various coastal vantage points.
Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge: This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service refuge protects high-quality estuarine habitats, including tidal marshes and swamps. It’s a haven for migratory birds, river otters, and other wildlife. While much of the refuge is only accessible by boat, there are designated areas for wildlife observation and photograph.
Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge: Renowned among bird watchers, this refuge protects the largest tidal salt marsh in the Coquille River estuary. It’s a habitat for migrating shorebirds, waterfowl, and juvenile fish. Activities include hunting, fishing, clamming, birding, and photography.
Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge: Established in 1938, this refuge protects one of the last remaining coastal old-growth forests. It’s home to species such as the marbled murrelet and peregrine falcon. The area offers hiking trails with interpretive displays and wildlife viewing decks.
Photo: Roy W. Lowe/USFWS - Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge, Three Arch Rocks - just a few of the magnificent islands in Oregon Islands NWF that adorn the entire Oregon coastline.
3. Bureau of Land Management (BLM):
In western Oregon, the BLM manages two million acres of forests, recreational and historically significant sites. These forests provide important habitat for many threatened and endangered fish and wildlife species and offer extremely valuable recreational opportunities for public land enthusiasts. Hunters, fishers and overlanders that utilize these public lands should be aware of likely impacts to remote trails and gates.
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area: Managed by the BLM, this area features a prominent headland extending into the Pacific Ocean, a historic lighthouse, tide pools, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Limited hours and cancelled programming at Yaquina Head has made national news.
Photo: Bastendorff Beach, managed in Coos County in partnership with BLM
4. Historic and Culturally Significant Areas:
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park: Located near the northern Oregon coast, this park commemorates the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s winter encampment. It offers historical exhibits, reconstructed fort structures, and interpretive trails.
Fort Stevens State Park: Although a state-managed site, it’s worth noting for its historical significance as a former military defense installation. The park includes remnants of fortifications, a military museum, and recreational facilities.
South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve
Located near Coos Bay, this reserve is a partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Oregon Department of State Lands. It encompasses a mix of tidal and freshwater wetlands, forests, and open water habitats. The reserve offers trails, a visitor center with educational exhibits, and opportunities for kayaking and birdwatching.