Yoakam Point State Natural Site

Yoakam Point State Natural Site protects 92 acres of coastal bluff and forest overlooking the Pacific Ocean near Florence, preserving ocean views and native vegetation along this scenic stretch of the central Oregon coast. The undeveloped natural site provides quiet contemplation of the coastal landscape.

The coastal forest provides habitat for black-tailed deer, raccoons, and various songbirds. Offshore waters attract gray whales during migration seasons. Seabirds including cormorants and common murres pass by the point. The forest edge shelters varied thrushes, winter wrens, and Pacific-slope flycatchers.

Shore pine and Sitka spruce dominate the coastal forest, with trees becoming increasingly wind-sculpted near the bluff edge. Salal, evergreen huckleberry, and wax myrtle form the dense understory typical of Oregon's coastal forests. Coastal wildflowers bloom along the bluff edges in spring and summer.

The headland consists of marine sedimentary rocks overlain by ancient sand dune deposits. Wave erosion continues wearing back the coastal bluffs, creating the dramatic cliffs visible from below. The adjacent Oregon Dunes represent one of North America's largest coastal dune systems. Sea stacks offshore mark former headland positions.

The central coast location experiences typical maritime conditions with mild temperatures year-round. Annual precipitation of 60-70 inches falls primarily between October and May. Summer brings fog and cool temperatures in the 60s F. Winter storms can generate strong winds and heavy rain. The exposed point experiences the full force of ocean weather.

Siuslaw people lived along this coast for millennia, utilizing the abundant marine resources and establishing seasonal camps at various locations. European-American settlement came in the 1870s, with logging and fishing becoming the primary industries. The natural site preserves a piece of the pre-development coastal landscape.

Oregon designated the natural site to protect coastal bluff habitat and maintain the scenic viewshed along Highway 101. The site remains undeveloped, with no formal trails or facilities. Management focuses on preserving the natural character of the coastal forest and bluff vegetation.

The undeveloped natural site offers no formal recreational facilities or maintained trails. The attraction is the preserved coastal landscape viewable from Highway 101 and informal access points. The site provides ocean views and connection to the coastal environment without developed infrastructure.

Located along Highway 101 north of Florence, the natural site has no developed facilities or official parking areas. Visitors access the site informally from highway pullouts. Florence, a few miles south, provides full visitor services. The Heceta Head Lighthouse and Sea Lion Caves are nearby attractions.

The natural site designation protects coastal forest and bluff habitat from development. The undeveloped character limits human impact while preserving native vegetation. The site contributes to the scenic corridor along Highway 101. Invasive plant management maintains the integrity of native coastal plant communities.