Harris Beach State Park

Harris Beach was named after the Scottish pioneer George Harris who settled here in the late 1880s to raise sheep and cattle.  The park boasts the largest island off the Oregon coast.  Bird Island (also called Goat Island) is a National Wildlife Sanctuary and breeding site for such rare birds as the tufted puffin.  The park offers sandy beaches interspersed with rocky outcroppings harboring interesting tidepools with their wide variety of life.  Sea stacks dot the ocean just off shore. The park's beauty changes with the seasons.  Many people are drawn to the powerful and dramatic winter storms; others seek the green and fragrant spring.  Summer is the time to bring your kites, shovels and pails with dry days of sun and occasional fog.  Fall is often the best time of year with clearer, warm days and gorgeous sunsets.  Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with gray whales on their winter and spring migrations, Harbor seals, California sea lions, sea birds and the rich marine gardens.  All-in-all making this park a fascinating stop for camping or beachcombing.