• Reedsport is a gateway to Oregon Dunes and Umpqua River adventures
A friendly small town on the Oregon Coast, Reedsport sits right where the mighty Umpqua River meets Highway 101, about 4 miles north of Winchester Bay. The town's 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, and visitor centers packed with useful info and curious facts about the area.
Besides, 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.
Find 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, and vacation rentals close to the river.
Tip: Reedsport is busiest in summer and on weekends, so book your stay early if you want the best spots near the Oregon Dunes or Umpqua River.
Things to Do in Reedsport
Umpqua Discovery Center: Top Museum in Downtown Reedsport
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.
What to See at the Umpqua Discovery Center:
- Interactive Exhibits for Kids
- Historic Waterfront Models
- Local Art and Gifts
- Riverside Boardwalk & Observation Tower.
Open daily but hours vary by season. Kids under 5 are free!
Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area: See Roosevelt Elk
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!
Ziolkouski Beach: Explore the Oregon Coast
Ziolkouski Beach, sometimes spelled “Ziolkovski,” is just north of Winchester Bay’s Salmon Harbor. The beach has wide, sandy shores that are perfect for walking and looking for interesting shells and rocks. You can also try surf fishing or explore the tidepools, and the sunsets over the Pacific Ocean are beautiful.
This beach is quiet and not crowded, so it’s easy to find a peaceful spot. Bring a picnic and a camera, and enjoy the natural beauty of the 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.
Lake Marie
Tucked away inside Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, Lake Marie is a peaceful freshwater lake surrounded by forest.
It’s a great place to visit because it offers an easy hiking trail around the lake, which is about one mile long. There are picnic tables and a swimming area, and it’s also a good spot for kayaking or fishing.
The quiet atmosphere makes it rarely crowded, making Lake Marie perfect for families or anyone needing a break from the busy dunes.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Visitor Center
The Oregon Dunes Visitor Center, located at 885 US-101 in Reedsport, is your one-stop shop for maps, passes, and tips. Staff is 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. There are several boat ramps along the river, and local guides can help you have a successful fishing trip
Local Parks
If you want to relax, Reedsport has a few nice parks. Bicentennial Park, Henderson Park, and Lions Park are all good for picnics or letting kids play at the playground.
Adventures Nearby
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.
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