Bob Straub

Bob Straub State Park protects a unique stretch of undeveloped coastline at the mouth of the Nestucca River near Pacific City. Named for former Oregon Governor Bob Straub, a champion of Oregon's beaches and environmental protection, the park preserves a dynamic landscape of dunes, beach, and tidal flats where the river meets the sea. The park offers a more natural and wild beach experience compared to more developed coastal parks.

The park's mix of habitats supports diverse wildlife. The Nestucca River estuary provides important habitat for migrating shorebirds, waterfowl, and wading birds. Harbor seals haul out on the sand spit and hunt in the river mouth. The offshore waters host gray whales during migration seasons. Brown pelicans, cormorants, and numerous gull species are common. The dunes shelter shorebirds and small mammals.

The park encompasses a variety of coastal plant communities including open beach, active dunes, and stabilized dune habitats. European beach grass and American beach grass colonize the dunes. Native plants including beach morning glory, sand verbena, and sea rocket grow on the sand. Shore pines grow on older stabilized dunes. The estuarine areas support salt marsh vegetation.

The park occupies a dynamic sand spit at the mouth of the Nestucca River, formed by the interaction of river currents, waves, and tidal action. The landform is constantly changing as sand is deposited and eroded. The dunes behind the beach are relatively young, formed by wind-blown sand accumulation. The underlying geology includes unconsolidated sediments deposited by the river and ocean.

Bob Straub experiences the mild, wet climate of the north Oregon coast. Summer temperatures average in the low 60s°F with frequent fog. Winters are mild with temperatures in the mid-40s. Annual precipitation exceeds 80 inches. Coastal winds are particularly strong at this exposed location, especially during winter storms. The weather can change rapidly.

The Nestucca Bay area has been home to the Tillamook people for thousands of years. The bay and river provided abundant fish, shellfish, and wildlife. Euro-American settlement began in the mid-1800s with dairy farming becoming the primary agricultural activity. Pacific City developed as a fishing community known for its dory fleet launching directly through the surf.

The park was established and named in honor of Bob Straub, who served as Oregon Governor from 1975-1979 and was instrumental in protecting Oregon's beaches and coastal lands throughout his career. The park preserves the natural character of this stretch of coast, maintaining the wild beach experience that Straub championed. Oregon State Parks manages the site with minimal development to honor his vision.

The main attraction is the natural beach experience, with opportunities for beachcombing, bird watching, and enjoying the coastal scenery. The Nestucca River estuary offers excellent birding during migration seasons. Views of Cape Kiwanda and Haystack Rock to the north are spectacular. The park provides a quieter alternative to the nearby busy beaches of Pacific City.

The park provides a parking area and beach access with minimal facilities to maintain the natural character. There are no camping facilities or developed picnic areas. Located south of Pacific City, the park is accessible via local roads from Highway 101. The beach access can be affected by weather and seasonal conditions. Visitors should be prepared for a natural beach experience.

Oregon State Parks manages the park to protect its natural coastal ecosystems and honor Bob Straub's conservation legacy. The estuarine and dune habitats provide important wildlife habitat. Minimal development maintains the natural character that distinguishes this park. Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the sensitive coastal environment.