• Alfred Loeb State Park is nestled in the southernmost Myrtlewood habitat in Oregon
• The area is popular for fishing, swimming, and rockhounding opportunities
Alfred A. Loeb State Park, also known as Loeb, is a picturesque destination nestled in a shaded Myrtlewood grove on the bank of the Chetco River. Loeb is just 8 miles away from Brookings, the southernmost coastal town of Oregon, which makes this site extremely popular among locals and tourists who travel along the Pacific Coast.
The crisp scent of the Myrtlewood trees gives this place a special type of charm. Oregon Myrtles are ancient trees growing in parts of Oregon and California. The oldest Loeb trees are approximately 200 years old. The largest one is 72 inches in diameter and 128 feet tall. In California, the Oregon Myrtle is generally referred to as California Laurel. The park is the southernmost place of Myrtlewood habitat in Oregon and the spot where these unique trees meet California redwoods.
In addition to seeing Murtles and Redwoods as well as other flora and fauna of the Southern Oregon Coast, there are a plethora of outdoor activities you can enjoy at Loeb.
Alfred Loeb State Park Swimming
The Chetco River is an amazing place for the entire family to enjoy the pristine river water during the hot summer months. You can swim, raft, boat, or just splash in the water here.
The current is slow and the water is warming up to 80°F at the peak of summer heat. It makes this site relatively safe for swimming in summer.
The bank is composed of pebbles and cobbles. There are shallow and deeper spots allowing to wade and swim.
A big rock in the middle of the river is highly enjoyed by kids for the fun of climbing and jumping.
Chetco River Swimming & Other Water Activities
Alfred Loeb State Park Hiking
Riverview Nature Trail is an easy out-and-back 1.5-mile trail. It will take you along the scenic Chetco River to the Rogue River Siskiyou National Forest. Once you reach the national forest, you can take an easy 1-mile loop on Redwood Nature Trail. These trails provide opportunities to explore Oregon's redwood, the northernmost in the United States.
Alfred Loeb State Park Rockhounding
Chetco's extensive gravel bars are known for plenty of interesting rocks and minerals. Large sizes of white quartz, jasper, and agate are in abundance here. Rarely carnelian agate, petrified wood, and serpentine can be found as well.
Alfred Loeb State Park Fishing
The Chetco River is a perfect spot to catch fall and winter salmon as well as steelhead. The park provides public access to the river for every anglers. You can fish off of the gravel bar or off of a drift boat.
Alfred Loeb State Park Camping
Alfred A. Loeb State Park is a fantastic place to camp by the river. You can use one of the 48 electrical sites or reserve one of the 3 rustic log cabins. One campsite and one cabin are accessible. Each camping spot has a picnic table and a fire ring. You can purchase firewood on-site and have access to hot showers and flush toilets.
Reservation is required through the Oregon State Parks Reservation System.
Alfred Loeb State Park | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Oregon State Park
Amenities: Flush restrooms, picnic sites
Activities: Swimming, hiking, fishing, rockhounding, and camping
Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any vehicle, but 4WD is preferable
Fees: None
Elevation: 100 ft (30 m)
Alfred Loeb State Park is located:
- 8 miles northeast of Brookings
- 36 miles south of Gold Beach
- 220 miles southwest of Eugene.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Alfred Loeb State Park
From Highway 101 in Brookings,
- Turn north to North Bank Chetco River Road and then bear right staying on North Bank Chetco River Road
- Travel 7.6 miles northeast to the park entrance on the right.