Discovering Chetco Point Park in Brookings, Oregon
Chetco Point Park perfectly captures the spirit of the southern Oregon coast. Near downtown Brookings, this nine-acre city park sits on a rocky headland that stretches out into the Pacific Ocean, offering sweeping views, coastal trails, picnic spots, and a peaceful place to enjoy nature. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and travelers who want to experience the raw beauty of the coast without the crowds often found at larger parks.
Getting to Chetco Point Park is simple. From downtown Brookings, you can follow Wharf Street toward the ocean until you reach the parking area next to the city’s wastewater treatment plant. The location might sound odd, but don’t let that deter you—the smell is usually mild and short-lived, and what waits beyond the parking lot is absolutely worth it. The main trail is paved and easy to follow, leading you through coastal vegetation toward the open bluff. It’s an easy walk, just under a mile round trip, and suitable for most visitors, including families with small children or those who want a short but scenic outing.
Once you reach the end of the trail, you’ll find yourself standing on a headland high above the surf, with breathtaking views of the Pacific stretching endlessly to the west. To the north and south, dramatic rock formations rise from the sea, waves crash against sea stacks, and seabirds glide on the wind. On clear days, you can see the Chetco River mouth and the harbor to one side and the rugged shoreline extending south toward Harris Beach State Park. It’s an ideal spot for photography, especially at sunset when the sky turns gold and pink above the ocean.
Below the bluff are hidden beaches and coves that invite exploration. Adventurous visitors can take the steep side trails down to Chetco Cove or Mill Beach, where tide pools teem with life. During low tide, you might discover sea anemones, starfish, small crabs, and other colorful marine creatures clinging to the rocks. Beachcombing is also popular here, and it’s not uncommon to find interesting driftwood or polished stones along the shore. Because the terrain can be rocky and slippery, it’s wise to wear sturdy shoes and be cautious of changing tides and surf conditions.
Picnicking is another favorite activity at Chetco Point Park. The grassy area near the trailhead features picnic tables, benches, and open lawns where you can relax, enjoy lunch, or simply soak up the sound of the waves below. It’s a peaceful setting for a family outing, and the mild Brookings climate makes it enjoyable most of the year. Thanks to the unique “Chetco Effect,” this area often experiences warmer and sunnier weather than much of the Oregon coast, especially during winter months when other coastal towns are foggy or rainy.
For visitors with dogs, Chetco Point Park offers one of the most scenic off-leash areas in Oregon. The fenced dog park section overlooks the ocean, giving pets space to run and play while owners take in the stunning coastal views. It’s not unusual to see locals gathering here with their dogs in the morning or evening, creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to observe, too. Seabirds such as gulls, pelicans, and cormorants are regular visitors, and you might spot harbor seals resting on offshore rocks. During whale migration season, particularly in winter and spring, gray whales can sometimes be seen spouting or breaching offshore. Bring binoculars for the best chance to catch sight of them.
There’s something to appreciate at Chetco Point Park in every season. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the trail, adding splashes of color to the coastal scenery. Summer brings calm seas and longer days perfect for evening walks. Fall often has dramatic skies and fewer crowds, while winter can offer powerful wave-watching during coastal storms. Photographers and nature lovers will find plenty of inspiration year-round.
While the park itself is small, it’s part of a larger network around Brookings. If you have time, you can combine your visit with nearby spots like Harris Beach State Park, Azalea Park, or the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor just north of town. After exploring, grab a meal at one of Brookings’ local restaurants—places like Zola’s on the Water, Black Trumpet Bistro, or Oxenfre Public House are all great choices for seafood, pasta, and craft brews.
A few tips for your visit: the trail and picnic area are accessible to most visitors, including those with limited mobility, though the beach trails are steep and not recommended for everyone. There are restrooms near the parking area, and parking is free. It’s best to visit at low tide if you want to explore the beach, and at sunset if you want to see the most spectacular views. Even though Brookings tends to be warmer than other coastal towns, it can still get breezy, so bringing a light jacket is a good idea.
Chetco Point Park captures the essence of the Oregon coast, with the drama of rocky cliffs, the tranquility of grassy picnic areas, the adventure of tide pools, and the endless appeal of ocean views.
