The Oregon Dunes Visitor Center is open year-round, but hours vary by season. Summer and winter hours apply, though specific times are Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and it is closed on federal holidays.
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area requires a $5 Digital Recreation Day Pass for U.S. Forest Service fee sites. Annual and interagency passes are also available. No per person or private vehicle fees apply here.
From Eugene, take Highway 126 west to Highway 101, then head south to Florence, immersing yourself in 40 miles of coastal dunes and serene lakes.
At Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, there are numerous passenger vehicle parking spaces and large pull-through spaces for travel trailers or motorhomes. Parking is available for cars, RVs, and motorcycles. Overnight parking is not permitted in day-use areas. A fee is required for parking.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the heart of Oregon’s coastal landscape lies the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, a 31,500-acre expanse of temperate coastal sand dunes that stands as one of the world’s most unique and breathtaking natural wonders. Here, the stark, mist-shrouded dunes rise up to 500 feet above sea level, juxtaposed against the vast, serene beaches and the Pacific Ocean’s relentless waves.
The area is a tapestry of diverse ecosystems, including open dunes, tree islands, wetlands, and marsh-like deflation plains. This rich environment is home to a variety of flora and fauna, some of which are found nowhere else. The Snowy Plover, a delicate bird species, shares the beach from March to September, a period when visitors are encouraged to respect their habitat.
For the adventurous, the Oregon Dunes offer a plethora of activities: hiking through trails that weave between the dunes and forests, off-highway vehicle riding that thrills with its unpredictable terrain, and paddling or canoeing through the calm waters of the area’s thirty lakes. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in these lakes, which are home to a variety of fish species.
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Visitor Center in Reedsport serves as a hub for planning and exploring, with interpretive exhibits, maps, and knowledgeable staff. Nearby, the charming town of Reedsport offers local artisans and outfitters, such as those providing guided walking tours or canoe rentals.
Seasonal events enhance the experience; during the warmer months, ranger-led canoe tours and wildlife viewing excursions are popular. As the seasons change, the dunes transform, with spring bringing vibrant wildflowers and autumn casting a golden glow over the landscape. Whether seeking solitude, adventure, or simply the beauty of nature, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience.
- Area (mi²)
- 50
- Annual visitors
- 1 500 000
- Established year
- 1972
Top 3 Facts about Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
Some dunes in this area reach 500 feet above sea level, a result of millions of years of erosion by wind and rain. This unique landscape was even an inspiration for Frank Herbert’s science-fiction novel Dune.
In this coastal wonderland, towering sand dunes harbor a diverse ecosystem. Spot bald eagles and osprey soaring overhead, while Roosevelt elk graze along the highways. On the beach, seabirds and sea lions are common sights, with gray whales visible offshore. The unique habitat supports over 400 wildlife species, including the western snowy plover and the coastal marten. Sand verbena and shore pine thrive in this dynamic landscape, making it a paradise for wildlife viewing and birding.
Toweringly high sand dunes, some reaching 500 feet above sea level, sculpted by relentless winds, stand juxtaposed with serene lakes and the Pacific Ocean’s vibrant blue waters. This coastal landscape, shaped over millions of years, offers a dramatic interplay of rugged dunes, marshy deflation plains, and isolated tree islands, creating a unique and breathtaking environment.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in summer for warmer weather and the annual Sandfest event. Plan for a few days to explore extensive trails and dunes. Bring sun protection, layered clothing, and sturdy footwear. Stop at the visitors center for maps and guidance. Pack meals and water, as options are limited. Rest frequently to manage the terrain’s physical demands. Park at designated areas and consider guided tours or ATV rentals for a comprehensive experience.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for cooler coastal temperatures, waterproof gear for rain, and sturdy footwear for outdoor adventures. Bring warm jackets and waterproof boots year-round, with lighter clothing for summer months. Check forecasts for variable weather conditions.
Respect Wildlife
Respect sensitive habitats by staying on designated trails, avoiding dry sand during snowy plover nesting season (May 15 – Sept 15), and keeping dogs off restricted areas. Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect unique flora and fauna.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast-moving water. Check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 541-271-6000. Exercise caution around wildlife and hot springs. Follow park signs and advisories.
Seasons
Visit in spring, from April to September, for mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and blooming wildflowers. Enjoy hiking, sandboarding, and longer daylight hours amidst sculpted dunes and coastal fog. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Summer brings warm temperatures (60s-70s°F) and sunny days, ideal for off-road ATVing, hiking, and sandboarding. Experience DuneFest in July-August, a thrilling event amidst 40 miles of coastal dunes. Perfect for adventure seekers, with mild weather and unique outdoor activities.
Visit in fall, from September to November, when mild temperatures (50s-60s°F) and crisp weather enhance the mystical dunes, forests, and coastal scenery. Witness the annual bird migrations and share the beach with protected Snowy Plovers until September 15. Ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Visit in winter (December to February) for dramatic storm watching and king tides, with temperatures in the 40s and 30s Fahrenheit. Cozy cabins, fewer crowds, and rare snowy landscapes make it a unique season, though caution is advised due to heavy rains and potential road closures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the Oregon Dunes, you should stay in North Bend or Florence, as these cities are nearest to the area. North Bend is at the northern end of the dunes, while Florence is at the southern end. Dunes City, six miles south of Florence, is another option with access to the dunes and surrounding lakes.
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The Oregon Dunes Trail is highly family-friendly, offering short hikes and kid-friendly excursions through the dunes. The Tahkenitch Area also provides a non-motorized recreation space with a campground, hiking trails, and a lake for canoeing and kayaking. Additionally, the Carter Lake Campground has a one-mile trail through the dunes to the ocean, making it a favorite for families.
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You need to keep your dog on a leash no longer than six feet on trails and on the beach, except in designated off-leash areas or inside your vehicle, tent, or pet-friendly accommodations. On the beach, your dog must be under direct control if not leashed. There are also restrictions during certain times to protect wildlife, such as western snowy plovers from March 15 to September 15.
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There is a $5 per vehicle per day parking fee at the Oregon Dunes Overlook and Day Use area. This fee applies year-round and does not differentiate between types of vehicles such as cars, camper vans, or motorhomes. Camping or overnight parking is not allowed.
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Visitors can enjoy hiking, off-highway vehicle riding, and horseback riding through the 500-foot tall sand dunes. Other activities include camping, fishing, canoeing, and photography. The area also offers beaches, lakes, and unique geological formations like tree islands and deflation plains.