Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area
Depoe Bay, OR
Fogarty Creek runs under Highway 101 through a small forested picnic area before reaching a sheltered cove beach, protected enough by the surrounding headlands that it stays calmer than the open coast on either side. Kids wade in the shallow creek here as much as the ocean itself, which makes it a popular family stop.
The sheltered cove and creek make it genuinely good for families, well loved locally, though the small lot fills fast on summer weekends.
How we score beachesLet kids play in the creek on the picnic area side before heading down to the beach. It's shallow, slow moving, and a lot safer than the open surf just beyond the cove.
Free lot right off Highway 101.
A paved path through the picnic area leads to a short trail down to the beach.
Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach and picnic area.
Summer, June through September, is the busiest and driest season, and the sheltered cove keeps water calmer than nearby open beaches most of the year.
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