• Cape Lookout is one of the most prominent headland on the Oregon Coast
• The park offers camping and hiking along with access to two beaches
Cape Lookout State Park sits on the Northern Oregon Coast just 8 miles south of Oceanside. and it is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This beautiful state park, scenic Pacific Ocean vistas, great opportunities for camping, beachcombing, and hiking with access to two beaches that easily provide a whole day's worth of adventures for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cape Lookout is a narrow volcanic headland covered with lush hemlocks and Sitka spruce. It extends out into the ocean for 1.5 miles and features multiple hiking trails which will take you to enjoy impressive ocean views. On a clear day, you can see as far as Tillamook Head 42 miles north, and Cape Foulweather 39 miles south!
Viewpoints are also great to observe whales during the migration period, sea lions, as well as an array of seabirds.
Hiking
Trails at the Cape Lookout State Park will take you to a variety of viewpoints and beaches. The Cape Lookout Trail is a moderate 4.7 miles out-and-back hike that will take you to the best viewpoint in the park. Keep in mind that this trail gets rough and muddy in some areas. The moderate 3.1 miles out-and-back Oregon Islands South Trail will take you to South Beach.
Netarts Spit Trail is an extended, but easy 10.5 miles out-and-back hike. It will take you through the Netarts Spit Beach, which is only accessible on low tide. During high tide the southern end of the beach disappears underwater, thus cutting land access. Make sure to check the tide timing, so you would not get stranded.
The state park is open year-round for day use and overnight camping. The day-use area has restrooms and picnic tables while the campground provides restrooms, hot showers, and an RV dump station. You can bring your pets, but keep them on a leash of no longer than 6 feet.
Camping, Lodging & Vacation Rentals
The camping area is large at the Cape Lookout State Park with numerous options to choose from. There are 170 tent sites, 38 full-hookup sites, 13 yurts (6 are pet-friendly), 6 deluxe cabins (3 are pet-friendly), 1 electrical site with water, a group tent camping area, and the hiker/biker camp. You can reserve your spot up to 6 months in advance.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Oceanside
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Tillamook
Cape Lookout State Park | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Oregon State Parks
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, anddrinking water
Activities: Camping, hiking, fishing, & nature viewing
Day-use fees: Yes or Oregon State Parks Annual Parking Permit
Cape Lookout State Park is located:
- 11 miles southwest of Tillamook
- 83 miles west of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Cape Lookout State Park
From US 101 in Tillamook,
- Take OR 131 west (3d Street) and head west 6.4 miles to Netarts Bay Drive
- Turn left onto Netarts Bay Drive and continue for 5.3 miles to Cape Lookout Road
- Turn right onto Cape Lookout Road and follow 0.6 miles to the destination.