Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
No
Lodging
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.

Bolon Island lies between the towns of Reedsport and Gardiner along the Oregon coast, and though small, presents a few different recreational opportunities.

Splitting the Umpqua River, the island was gifted to the state of Oregon in the 1930s. Since that time, the landmass has expanded with the addition of fill, leaving the island in two distinct portions: a level low-lying portion that is home to a large steel business, and a forested hillside. On the lower portion, accessible by turnoff down a dirt road immediately east of the island's three-way intersection, is a boat ramp with wide parking area. To the south of the three-way intersection is a small pulloff large enough for no more than two or three cars, behind which is a short trail that wraps about halfway around the island.

The trail has a couple interpretive signs, but no real views of anything aside from the steel fabrication business. The most appealing draw of the park is its population of double-crested cormorants, who typically nest in remote locations. Viewing these birds requires walking up a short but very steep trail leading to the top of the island. Continuing beyond the nesting location leads to the base of a tower and views looking out upon the north entryway to the town of Reedsport.

While small, Bolon Island Tideways State Scenic Corridor provides an interesting place to stop and easy access to the Umpqua River. The park is open during daylight hours only. There is an outhouse near the boat ramp, however, no other amenities are available on the island.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Variety of recreational opportunities.

Cons

Feels very off-the-path. Minimally maintenance. Highway noise.

Features

Vault toilet
Boat ramp(s)
Wildlife
Family friendly
Near lake or river
Bird watching

Location

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