Big Creek - Agate Hunting Spot on the Oregon Coast

Big Creek Beach is one of the spots near Yachats easily missed while driving down U.S. Route 101. Big Creek starts its way in the Central Oregon Coast Range at Saddle Mountain Spring and flows through the Suislaw National Forest towards the ocean.

A bowstring arch bridge, Big Creek Bridge carries the highway over the stream at milepost 175. This bridge is 180 feet (55 m) long with one 120 feet long reinforced concrete tied arch. It was created by Conde McCullough and opened for traffic in 1931.

Big Creek Beachcombing is a worthwhile destination offering opportunities to find high-quality specimens. You can enjoy the walk on the beach while looking for some new additions to your collection. The most common minerals you can find here are jasper, agate, and petrified wood. Less common finds may include zeolite-bearing basalt, and marine fossils.

While some minerals like agates can be picked up, others require more effort to get to. Marine fossils and zeolite-filled amygdules will more than likely be attached to the rock or sit inside the rock. Hammer and a geology pick will help you out in getting the rocks out and adding those to your collection. Make sure to wear proper eye protection for your safety while using a pick and a hammer.

The area near the bridge features small parking lots on both sides of the road. Undeveloped beach access can be found on the west side of the road. Come down to the sand and check what this spot has to offer!

Cautions: Beware of changing tides, rip currents, driftwoods, sneaker waves and never turn your back to the ocean.