A Beacon with a Tale: The Umpqua River Lighthouse
Standing 65 feet tall and perched atop a 100-foot rise above Winchester Bay, the Umpqua River Lighthouse casts a distinctive alternating red and white flash that has guided mariners for more than a century. Before this tower rose, its predecessor stood at the river’s edge from 1857 until erosion—and ultimately collapse—claimed it in 1863. Construction of the new, raised beacon began in 1892, and by 1894 it shone a steadfast light, its first-order Fresnel lens—the product of French craftsmanship—spinning via clockwork well into the modern era.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the lighthouse is open for tours through summer and into autumn. A visit brings the chance to climb to the top and peer 20+ miles out to sea, as seen in evocative images shared online on misty mornings. The adjacent Coastal History Museum, housed in a former Coast Guard station, stretches the story further with exhibits on local maritime history and the building’s own past.
Lake Marie: A Peaceful Heartbeat in the Park
Just steps from the coast, Lake Marie is a fresh-water lake tucked away and quiet like a secret escape. With a small sandy beach, serene paddling zone, and a lovely trail encircling the water, it’s a favorite for families, anglers, and anyone wanting to press pause on the hum drum of life's demands.
Seasonal adventures abound—try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, take a plunge in the quiet waters, or cast a line for rainbow trout that are stocked periodically (fly-fishing and belly boats get extra props).
Cozy Stays: Campsites, Cabins, and Yurts
The park’s overnight accommodations offer both charm and quiet. You’ll find tent sites, full hook‑ups for RVs, log cabins with lake-view porches, and a mix of rustic and deluxe yurts—with some pet‑friendly options as well, and even accessible yurts to suit diverse needs. Deluxe yurts are especially loved—they come with kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and a peaceful separation from campsites—a favorite for families and those looking for a romantic getaway .
The Wild and Wonderful: Oregon Dunes Adventure
Umpqua Lighthouse State Park sits in the heart of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, a sweeping coastal playground with dunes rising up to 500 feet. Though direct vehicle access isn’t available from the park, the dunes are just a short distance away—perfect for everything from peaceful walks to heart-pounding ATV rides.
Winchester Bay: The “Crab Capital of the World”
Winchester Bay itself is a lively coastal hub, famed for crabbing and sporting the proud moniker of “Crab Capital of the World”. The town’s strong tourism pull includes Dune Fest, a multi-day celebration of dune fun and community spirit.
Visitor Impressions: What Locals Say
On Reddit, visitors chip in their two cents—and it’s glowing:
“The lighthouse at Umpqua lighthouse state park outside of Winchester bay… It’s super cool…”
“Umpqua lighthouse would be my recommendation if you want beautiful and forested areas”
Photographers frequently capture the moody atmosphere of the lighthouse, especially in autumn mists that evoke a timeless maritime atmosphere.
Crafting Your Visit: A Coastal Adventure
Morning: Kite off in the dunes or explore dunes on foot.
Midday: Picnic and paddle around Lake Marie.
Afternoon: Tour the lighthouse, climb to the top, and explore exhibits in the museum.
Evening: Settle into a cozy yurt or cabin; watch the sun dip beneath the Pacific.
Bonus: Venture into Winchester Bay for fresh crabs or the seasonal buzz of Dune Fest.
Why It Captivates
The lighthouse connects you to the perils and perseverance of coastal navigation. Lake Marie offers gentle reflection, while the dunes roar with raw human joy and the wild landscapes of nature.
