Exploring Humbug Mountain & Harris Beach State Park in Brookings, Oregon
Humbug Mountain State Park
Located just off U.S. Route 101, Humbug Mountain State Park is a beautiful getaway, I highly recommend checking out. At 1,759 feet, it’s one of the tallest mountains to rise directly from the Pacific Ocean, offering amazing views and lots of trails to explore.
A Peek into History:
Before the mountain became a state park, the area was home to Native American tribes like the Coquille and the Tolowa. The lush forests and diverse wildlife provided essential resources for these communities for thousands of years. In the 19th century, the area saw settlers come in, attracted by the abundant timber that the mountain’s forests offered. But as the years passed, it became clear that Humbug Mountain was worth preserving. By the mid-20th century, it became a beloved state park.
This park is a little slice of paradise. From hiking through an old-growth forest, where the air smells of pine and the trees seem to reach for the sky and giving way to expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, and on a clear day, you can see for miles, with the rolling waves crashing against the coastline below. Trust us, it’s a view you’ll want to capture.
The Best Parts:
- Summit Trail: This 2-mile hike takes you through forests of firs, hemlocks, and cedars, eventually leading you to the summit where you’ll be rewarded with views of the coastline. It’s not a beginner’s hike, but the view from the top is worth every step.
- Other Trails: If the summit trail isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other trails to explore. A shorter, easier loop through the forest gives you a taste of the park’s diverse ecosystems, and the Oregon Coast Trail runs right through the park, allowing you to explore even more of the coastline.
- Camping: Want to stay a little longer? Humbug Mountain offers a spacious campground with over 100 sites, including tent camping, RV spots, and even yurts! It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife—black-tailed deer, elk, and even bald eagles call this park home. It’s a fantastic spot for birdwatching, and if you're visiting during whale migration season, you might even spot a gray whale passing by.
Harris Beach State Park
Just a short drive north of Brookings, Harris Beach State Park offers a completely different experience. This park is all about the coast—long stretches of sandy beach, dramatic sea stacks, and rocky islands that make it one of the most photogenic spots on the Oregon Coast. But beyond its beauty, there’s a history here too, tied to the area's maritime past.
A Peek into History:
Harris Beach is named after the Harris family, early settlers in the area who helped shape the local community. The coastline was also once a key spot for the fishing and shipping industries, and several shipwrecks have occurred off the shores of Harris Beach. These wrecks are part of the region’s rich maritime history, adding an intriguing layer of depth to the park.
The Best Parts:
- Bird Island: Just offshore, you’ll find Bird Island (also known as Goat Island), the largest offshore island along the Oregon Coast. It’s home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins, cormorants, and pelicans. Bring a pair of binoculars, because birdwatching here is a real treat.
- Tidepooling: At low tide, Harris Beach reveals a world of marine life waiting to be discovered. Starfish, crabs, anemones, and sea urchins thrive in the tidepools, and it’s a fantastic spot for families, photographers, and nature lovers.
- Scenic Trails: Take a short hike along the Harris Beach Trail, which offers jaw-dropping views of the coast. It’s an easy loop through coastal forest that leads to stunning vistas, perfect for a quick escape from the sand.
- Camping: If you want to spend the night by the ocean, Harris Beach has a well-equipped campground with over 100 campsites. Many of the sites offer ocean views, and the sound of waves will lull you to sleep each night. It’s a peaceful, serene spot to soak in the coastal magic.
Tips for Visiting Humbug Mountain and Harris Beach
- Best Time to Visit: Both parks are open year-round, but late spring to early fall is the best time to visit, especially if you’re into hiking and exploring. The weather is mild, and the trails are in great condition. If you're looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting in the off-season when the parks are less crowded.
- What to Bring: The weather on the coast can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack layers. A light jacket or sweater is always a good idea, even in summer. Also, don’t forget sunscreen, sturdy shoes for hiking, and a camera to capture all the incredible views.
- Camping Reservations: Both parks are popular spots, so if you’re planning to camp, make sure to reserve your site in advance, especially during the busy summer months.
These two parks offer adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Humbug Mountain invites you to hike through ancient forests and reach the summit for views that will take your breath away, while Harris Beach gives you a chance to unwind by the ocean, explore tidepools, and witness seabirds in their natural habitat. And let’s not forget the history—both parks offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural and maritime past of the region.
