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Oregon
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Oregon State Parks

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Oregon Coast Region
Governor Patterson Memorial State Recreation Site
Governor Patterson Memorial State Recreation Site © Becky Lowe
Western Meadow Lark © stateparks.com
Western Meadow Lark
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GOVERNOR PATTERSON MEMORIAL STATE RECREATION SITE
GOVERNOR PATTERSON MEMORIAL STATE RECREATION SITE
1770 Southwest Pacific Coast Highway
Waldport, Oregon   97394
(lat:44.414 lon:-124.0834) map location

Phone: 800-551-6949
Governor Patterson State Park is a beachcomber's delight. ... miles of flat, sandy beach and just a short hike from the mouth of Alsea Bay where you can windsurf, crab, or just watch the seals. Excellent whale and storm watching. Sunsets are beautiful here and it's a great place to take photos.
History of the Area
Located in Waldport, Oregon, the site is named after Isaac Lee Patterson who served as Governor of Oregon from 1927 to 1929. The park was dedicated and opened for public use on June 4th,1933.

Isaac L. Patterson's tenure as governor saw a significant increase in state parks due to his advocacy for conservation efforts and recreational development within the state. He passed away while still serving office which led many citizens wanting to honor him with a memorial that reflected his passion towards nature preservation.

The land where this recreation area now stands was donated by Coast Land Company specifically intended for it be used as such tribute. It spans over ten acres along Alsea Bay featuring sandy beaches ideal for picnicking or beachcombing activities among others.

Over time additional amenities were added including restrooms facilities and parking areas making it more accessible especially during peak season when visitors flock here mainly because of its stunning views overlooking Pacific Ocean coastline plus proximity near Highway-101 route makes travel convenient too.
Swimming
1. Governor Patterson Memorial State Recreation Site offers beach swimming.
2. No lifeguards are on duty, so swim at your own risk.
3. The Pacific Ocean's currents can be strong and unpredictable; caution is advised.
4. Swimming near the shore allows for quick access to land if needed.
5. Wetsuits are recommended due to cold water temperatures year-round in Oregon coast waters.
6. The site does not have a designated pool or enclosed area for swimming activities.



Picnicking
Governor Patterson Memorial State Recreation Site offers picnic tables and grills, perfect for a beachfront meal amidst beautiful Oregon scenery.
Trails
1. Patterson Beach Trail: This is a short, easy trail that leads directly to the beach from the parking area. It's about 0.2 miles long and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

2. Alsea Bay Interpretive Center Pathway: A paved pathway leading towards an interpretative center where visitors can learn more about local wildlife and history.

3. Lighthouse View Loop: An approximately one-mile loop offering panoramic views of Yaquina Head lighthouse in Newport on clear days.

4. Coastal Forest Hike Route: Winding through dense coastal forest vegetation, this route provides opportunities for bird watching and spotting other native fauna like deer or raccoons.

5. Creekside Walkway: Follows along side a small creek within Governor Patterson Memorial State Recreation Site providing serene nature sounds throughout your hike.

6. Sea Stacks Observation Point: Short walk up to observation point with breathtaking view over sea stacks protruding out from ocean waves.

7. Sand Dune Climb: Challenging but rewarding climb up sand dunes giving hikers sweeping vistas across coastline.

8. Wildflower Meadow Path: Seasonal path showcasing variety of wildflowers blooming during spring/summer months.

9. Tidal Pool Exploration Area Access Track: Leads down rocky terrain toward tidal pools teeming with marine life at low tide.

10. Picnic Grove Connector Trail: Connects main hiking trails to picnic grove equipped with tables & grills perfect for outdoor meals after hikes.

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Area Campgrounds
Thousand Trails Whalers Rest
50 Southeast 123rd Street
, OR
541-867-6078
Outdoor Resorts Pacific Shores Motorcoach Resort
6225 North Highway 101
Newport, OR
Chinook RV Park
3299 Alsea Highway
Waldport, OR
541-563-3485
Sea Perch RV Resort
95480 Highway 101
Yachats, OR
541-547-3505
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
1. Start by heading onto Highway 101 if you are coming from the north or south.
2. Take Exit 40 toward Gold Beach and merge onto Jerry's Flat Road.
3. Continue on this road for approximately 0.7 miles until you reach a roundabout.
4. At the roundabout, take the second exit to stay on Jerry's Flat Road/County Hwy:595 towards Port of Gold Beach/City Center.
5. Drive straight ahead for about half a mile before turning left onto Agness Avenue (signs will indicate "Agness/Gold Hill").
6. Continue driving along Agness Avenue as it curves slightly to become Cedar Valley Road after crossing over Rogue River Bridge.

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Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

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