• Alfred Loeb State Park is nestled within Oregon’s southernmost Myrtlewood habitat
• 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 along the banks of the Chetco River. Located just 8 miles from Brookings, Oregon’s southernmost coastal town, this serene park is a popular stop for locals and travelers exploring the Pacific Coast.
The crisp, spicy scent of Oregon Myrtle trees gives the park a distinctive charm. These ancient trees grow in southern Oregon and northern California. Some of the oldest trees in the park are over 200 years old, with the largest measuring 72 inches in diameter and 128 feet tall.
Known as California Laurel in its southern range, the Oregon Myrtle finds its northernmost habitat here. Loeb is also the southernmost Myrtlewood grove in Oregon, marking the transition zone where these trees mingle with California redwoods.
Alfred Loeb State Park - Things to Do
Chetco River Swimming & Water Activities
The Chetco River is ideal for family fun during the summer. The river's slow current and temperatures reaching up to 80°F in peak summer make it a relatively safe and comfortable place for swimming, rafting, boating, or simply splashing in the water.
The pebble and cobble shoreline includes both shallow and deeper areas for wading and swimming. A large rock in the middle of the river is especially popular with kids for climbing and jumping.
Chetco River Swimming & Other Water Activities
Hiking Trails
Riverview Nature Trail: A 1.5-mile out-and-back path along the scenic Chetco River leading to the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.
Redwood Nature Trail: Once you reach the forest, enjoy a 1-mile loop through one of Oregon’s few redwood groves — the northernmost redwoods in the U.S.
These trails offer a peaceful walk through lush forests with wildlife spotting and photography opportunities.
Fishing
The river is a prime location for fall and winter salmon and steelhead fishing. Anglers can fish from the gravel bar or launch a drift boat for a float downriver. Public access is available directly from the park.
Rockhounding
Chetco's extensive gravel bars are known for plenty of rocks and minerals. You can find an abundance of of white quartz, jasper, and agate. Rarer finds include carnelian agate, petrified wood, and serpentine.
Alfred Loeb State Park Camping
Camp riverside at one of 48 electrical sites or reserve one of three rustic log cabins. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring, with hot showers, flush toilets, and firewood available on-site. One campsite and one cabin are accessible.
Reservation is required through the Oregon State Parks Reservation System.
If you prefer hotel accommodations, consider booking your stay in Brookings.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stays in Brookings
Alfred Loeb State Park | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Oregon State Parks
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.