Oswald West State Park is located on the northern Oregon coast and is known for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, and recreational opportunities. The park covers a total of 2,448 acres and features several natural attractions such as sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and dense forests.
One of the main reasons to visit Oswald West State Park is for its stunning coastal views. The park is home to some of the most beautiful stretches of beach in Oregon, including the popular Short Sand Beach, which is surrounded by towering cliffs and offers excellent surfing conditions.
In addition to its beaches, the park also has several hiking trails that lead through old-growth forests and along creeks and waterfalls. The most popular trail is the 5.2-mile round-trip hike to the summit of Neahkahnie Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the coast and surrounding mountains.
Other points of interest in the park include the Devil's Cauldron, a rocky cove that is home to a powerful blowhole and an impressive sea cave, and the Cape Falcon viewpoint, which offers sweeping views of the coastline.
Interesting facts about Oswald West State Park include that it was named after Oswald West, who was the governor of Oregon from 1911 to 1915 and was a strong advocate for public access to the state's beaches. The park was also used as a filming location for several movies, including 1985's The Goonies.
The best time of year to visit Oswald West State Park is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and the park's beaches are at their most accessible. However, visitors should be prepared for crowds and should make reservations well in advance if planning to camp in the park.