Lighthouse Trail

The Lighthouse Trail is considered an easy hike, suitable for all skill levels, including families and those seeking a less strenuous outing. It features minimal elevation gain and a varied, generally flat terrain.

The trail typically starts from the campground area within Bullards Beach State Park. There is ample parking available at the state park, providing convenient access to the trailhead.

You will traverse diverse landscapes including lowland forests, grassy fields, and sandy dunes. A significant portion of the path from the campground to the beach is a mostly-paved, multi-use path. Beyond the lighthouse, a short trail leads to a paved jetty, and the beach itself features compact sand.

The most prominent feature is the historic Coquille River Lighthouse, which is open to the public during certain seasons (mid-May through September). You can also walk onto a paved jetty for unique coastal views and enjoy over 4.5 miles of sandy beach. The route offers sweeping ocean views, vistas of the Coquille River, and the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.

The area is excellent for wildlife viewing. You might spot various bird species, including migratory birds, great blue herons, and bald eagles, especially around the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. Seals and otters are frequently seen along the river and coastline, and migrating gray whales can sometimes be observed offshore in the spring.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but mid-May through September is particularly appealing as the Coquille River Lighthouse's signal room is open to the public during these months. Spring also offers a chance to spot migrating gray whales offshore.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Lighthouse Trail and within Bullards Beach State Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

As the trail is located within Bullards Beach State Park, a day-use parking fee may apply. You can find current fee information and details on permits by checking the official Oregon State Parks website: oregon.gov.

A significant portion of the trail, particularly the path leading from the campground to the beach, is a mostly-paved, multi-use path, making it suitable for strollers and potentially some wheelchairs. However, sections beyond the lighthouse and on the sandy beach may be less accessible.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Oregon Coast Trail and the Red John Trail, offering opportunities to extend your hike if desired.

The Lighthouse Trail is primarily an out-and-back route from the campground to the Coquille River Lighthouse and beyond to the jetty and beach. While you can explore the beach in various directions, the core trail is not a closed loop.