Cape Lookout State Park, Tillamook, OR

Cape Lookout State Park, Tillamook, OR – Summer 1999

This was one of our favorite parks, especially before the winter storms in 2000. We could get a campsite right on the beach, but the winter storms washed that away. But its still a beautiful park, off the beaten path, with a relaxing view and not too crowded.

Cape Lookout is located on a sand spit between Netarts Bay and the ocean, giving you a terrific view of the ocean with easy access to the beach. Beachcombing is popular here, and the park is reputedly a good place to find glass floats. More than eight miles of hiking and walking trails wind through a lush old-growth forest. The Cape Lookout trail follows the headland for more than 2 miles. A bench is located at the end of the trail. Enjoy the view! You might see a whale or two along with other wildlife.

Two walking trails — a nature trail and the Jackson Creek trail — are perfect for a shorter jaunt. The nature trail gives you a close-up view of native trees and other plants. Numbered markers are keyed to a trail guide. The Jackson Creek trail starts with an interpretive panel describing the local salmon restoration project.

Be sure to look up when you visit this park … hang gliders and paragliders fill the air with colorful wings as they catch thermals and rise to dizzying heights. Along with Cape Kiwanda and Cape Meares, Lookout is part of the Three Capes Scenic Route.

State Parks Web Site

NAME: Cape Lookout State Park-
Where: Tillamook, OR
Admission: $3 day use – $$-$25 camping
Camping: 38 full hookup, 1 electric, 173 tent (maximum site 60 feet); 13 yurts; group tent (2 areas); hiker/biker camp; 3 deluxe cabins (with bathrooms, kitchen, tv/vcr), hiker/biker camp.
URL: http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_186.php
Month/Year visited: Summer 1999
Comments: For information only, call (503)842-4981 or (800) 551-6949. To make reservations, call 1-800-452-5687.