You are here

Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
No
Snorkeling / SCUBA
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Crissey Field State Recreation Site Beach is the southernmost beach in Oregon, making it the first or last beach when entering or leaving the state. A large field of driftwood sits on the back edge of this beach, likely from trees carried down the Winchuck River and then washed back onto the beach. A land bridge exists in the summer and connects this beach to Winchuck Beach. This state recreation site also has a new building showcasing some of the best in green technology while acting as an Oregon Welcome Center.

Just north of this beach lies the Winchuck River mouth and lagoon. During summer months water flow is poor in the Winchuck River; as sands and silt builds up between the ocean and the river, the resulting a land bridge creates a lagoon. During winter months when rains are more frequent, larger amounts of water come down the Winchuck River and eventually create a bursting event. Much like the collapse of a manmade dam, the sand wall breaks and releases the water from the lagoon into the ocean. This cycle repeats over and over throughout the years, and it is very important for the lifecycles of wildlife species in the watershed.

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Southernmost beach access in Oregon. Nearby lagoon/estuary. Oregon visitor center in the parking lot.

Cons

None.

Features

Fishing
Bird watching
Wildlife

Location

Nearby Adventures

Redwoods + Del Norte Coast, California
Southern Oregon Coast + Rogue River, Oregon

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Ludlum House Recreation Area
Southern Oregon Coast + Rogue River, Oregon
Southern Oregon Coast + Rogue River, Oregon

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.

A profound concept originally envisioned by governor Oswald West, in 1967 the Oregon legislature ultimately realized his vision of making the entire Oregon Coast forever open to the public in a piece of landmark legislation titled the Oregon Beach Bill, officially making all 363 miles public land. "The People's Coast" is truly a one-of-a-kind coastline, a unique blend of mountains and rocky stacks, towering old growth forests, marine sanctuaries, tide pools and kelp forests, charming towns, historic fishing communities, world-class golfing, breweries, and simply jaw-dropping scenic beaches. We encourage you to plan your next trip at visittheoregoncoast.com or by calling (541) 574-2679.

More content from The People's Coast