Adventure Collective
HomeProtected PlacesNehalem Bay State Park
Nehalem Bay State Park adventures

Nehalem Bay State Park Adventures

Nehalem Bay State Park is a popular coastal park in Oregon offering beach access, diverse habitats, and excellent opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife observation.

1500
Acres Protected
9
Miles of Trails
200,000+
Annual Visitors
1972
Year Established

About Nehalem Bay State Park

 

Nehalem Bay State Park is located on the northern Oregon coast, just south of the town of Manzanita. The park encompasses a sandy beach along the Pacific Ocean, extensive dunes, forested areas, and wetland habitats where the Nehalem River meets the bay. The varied ecosystems support a rich diversity of wildlife, including shorebirds, migrating waterfowl, and native coastal plant species. Its landscape ranges from dense Sitka spruce and western hemlock forests to open dunes and estuaries. The park has historical significance as the area was once inhabited by the Tillamook people. Established in 1972, the park now serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors enjoy hiking its network of trails, exploring the sandy beach, fishing in the bay and nearby rivers, and camping in well-maintained campgrounds. Mountain biking is permitted on many trails, adding to the diversity of recreational experiences. Nehalem Bay provides significant birdwatching opportunities, especially during migratory seasons, and its relatively quiet and laid-back atmosphere attracts families and nature lovers. The park's accessible location between Tillamook and Cannon Beach makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the Oregon Coast. Facilities include picnic areas, restrooms, a day-use area, and campgrounds with both tent and RV sites. The coastal climate moderates temperatures year-round but also brings seasonal rain typical of the region. Overall, Nehalem Bay State Park offers an appealing blend of forest, dunes, beach, and estuary environments, making it a multifaceted coastal outdoor recreation destination.

Highlights

Highlight

Expansive sandy beach along the Pacific Ocean perfect for beachcombing and tide pooling

Highlight

Diverse coastal ecosystems including dunes, estuaries, and conifer forests

Highlight

Popular campground offering both tent and RV sites with close proximity to the beach

Highlight

Nehalem River estuary providing prime birdwatching and fishing opportunities

Notable Natural Features

Nehalem Bay

A scenic estuary where the Nehalem River meets the Pacific Ocean, supporting diverse bird species and offering fishing and paddle sports opportunities.

Sandy Beach

Wide, accessible beach ideal for walking, beachcombing, tide pooling, and beach picnics.

Mixed Forest Trails

Trails winding through Sitka spruce and western hemlock forests provide shaded hiking and mountain biking routes.