• Reedsport is a gateway to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and Umpqua River adventures
• The town is known for the Umpqua Discovery Center, and Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area
A friendly small town on the central Oregon Coast, Reedsport sits right where the mighty Umpqua River meets Highway 101, about 4 miles north of Winchester Bay. The population is just under 5,000, but don’t let that fool you. This is a place surrounded by natural wonders, unique history, and outdoor fun.
Reedsport is perfectly placed for exploring the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, river fishing, and wild coastal beaches. If you’re planning a trip to the dunes, heading out on a fishing adventure, or just looking for a quiet town with a big heart, Reedsport is a great base.
The waterfront is home to:
- Classic diners and burger joints
- Local art galleries and shops
- Cozy motels and RV parks
- Visitor centers packed with useful info and curious facts about the area
Reedsport is an ideal starting point for Oregon Coast road trips, wildlife watching, and family getaways.
A Brief History of Reedsport
Before visitors discovered this area, the Lower Umpqua, Coos, and Siuslaw Tribes lived along the river and the ocean. The modern town of Reedsport began in 1912, when the railroad arrived, sparking a boom. By 1919, Reedsport was officially chartered as a city.
The town’s economy was once driven by timber and fishing. When timber revenues declined, tourism and recreation became the main draw. Today, you can still stroll through Old Town Reedsport just a short walk from the riverfront and see early 1900s wooden storefronts now filled with modern businesses and local art.
Did you know? The Umpqua Discovery Center is a true community effort, built with the help of local residents, businesses, and the City of Reedsport, as well as partners such as the USDA Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management.
Places to Stay in Reedsport
Reedsport offers a range of places to stay for every traveler. Here, you’ll find:- Budget motels and family-friendly hotels
- RV parks and campgrounds near the dunes
- Vacation rentals close to the river
Things to Do in Reedsport
Umpqua Discovery Center
The Umpqua Discovery Center is the top attraction in downtown Reedsport. This museum brings the region’s natural and cultural history to life through interactive exhibits, dioramas, and friendly guides.
Highlights include:
- Hands-on kids’ activities about tidewater wildlife and pioneer history
- Scale models of Reedsport’s historic waterfront
- Local art and gifts in the museum shop
- A riverside boardwalk and observation tower with awesome Umpqua River views
Open daily (hours vary by season), admission is $8 for adults and $4 for kids ages 6–15. Kids under 5 are free!
Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area
Just 3 miles east of town on Highway 38, the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area is a must-see for wildlife lovers. This 1,100-acre preserve is home to about 120 wild Roosevelt elk.
You’ll find free parking, several viewing platforms, and elk often grazing close to the highway, sometimes just yards away. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for viewing, and informative signs help you learn about local wildlife.
Fun fact: mature elk here can weigh over 1,000 pounds, and the bulls’ antlers can reach 3 feet wide!
Lake Marie
Tucked away inside Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, Lake Marie is a peaceful freshwater lake surrounded by forest.
Why visit?
- Easy hiking trail around the lake (about 1 mile)
- Picnic tables and a swimming area
- Good spot for kayaking or fishing
- Quiet atmosphere, rarely crowded
Lake Marie is perfect for families or anyone needing a break from the busy dunes.
Ziolkouski Beach
Ziolkouski Beach (sometimes spelled “Ziolkovski”) stretches north of Winchester Bay’s Salmon Harbor.
What I love about this spot:
- Wide sandy shore for beachcombing and walking
- Surf fishing and tidepool exploring
- Beautiful sunsets over the Pacific Ocean
- Plenty of space with no crowds!
Bring a picnic, your camera, and enjoy the wild Oregon Coast.
Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
The Umpqua Lighthouse sits just one mile south of Winchester Bay and seven miles from Reedsport. Built in 1894, this 65-foot-tall lighthouse overlooks the dunes and sea.
You can tour the lighthouse and climb to the top (May–October, 10am–4pm, $5), visit the Coast Guard museum and interpretive center, scan the ocean for whales from the viewing platform, or simply take in panoramic views from the bluff.
Across the park, you’ll also find Lake Marie, campsites, and trails through coastal forest.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Visitor Center
The Oregon Dunes Visitor Center (885 US-101, Reedsport) is your one-stop shop for maps, passes, and tips. Staff are super helpful for planning hikes, dune buggy rides, or camping.
Fishing and Boating
The Umpqua River is legendary for salmon, sturgeon, bass, and shad fishing. Several boat ramps and guide services are available.
Local Parks
Take a break at Bicentennial Park, Henderson Park, or Lions Park - all perfect for a picnic or a playground stop.
Events in Reedsport
Reedsport hosts several local events and festivals throughout the year:
Chainsaw Carving Championships – Every June, artists transform logs into amazing sculptures in downtown Reedsport.
Holiday light parades – The community goes all out for the holidays, lighting up boats and city streets.
Farmers markets – Find local produce, crafts, and seafood in peak summer.
Food and Drink in Reedsport
Despite its size, Reedsport has a good variety of spots to eat and relax:
- Classic diners serving burgers, breakfast, and milkshakes
- Seafood restaurants with fresh local catch
- Coffee shops and bakeries are perfect for a quick stop
Don’t miss trying local salmon, chowder, or a burger after a day on the dunes.
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