Sept 1, 2018
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Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge

4.7
·301 reviews·Cloverdale, United States

Discover diverse wildlife and stunning coastal scenery at Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birds, butterflies, and hikers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Wildflowers and butterflies bloom

CrowdLow
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Sept 1, 2018

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Wildflowers and butterflies bloom

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover diverse wildlife and stunning coastal scenery at Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birds, butterflies, and hikers.

4.7
(301 reviews)

"Absolutely beautiful!! It was exciting to find such a massive beautiful meadow dedicated to butterflies and other wildlife!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear sturdy shoes

Trails can be muddy or uneven, especially off the main paved paths .

🦋 Look for butterflies

Spring and summer are prime times to spot threatened silverspot butterflies .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Two Rivers Trail

Two Rivers Trail

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge

A scenic 1.6-mile trail offering views of the Nestucca and Little Nestucca Rivers, with chances to spot deer and eagles .

Instagram
Butterfly Meadow

Butterfly Meadow

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge

A dedicated meadow buzzing with life, especially during butterfly season, showcasing threatened species like the silverspot butterfly .

Instagram
Observation Deck Views

Observation Deck Views

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, surrounding mountains, and coastal prairie .

Reddit
Hummingbird Haven

Hummingbird Haven

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge

A prime spot for birdwatching, particularly for capturing stunning shots of Rufous Hummingbirds , .

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Wildlife

Plan your trip around peak wildlife activity. Spring and summer are ideal for wildflowers and butterflies,Instagram,Instagram while fall and winter offer opportunities to see migratory birds and different coastal scenery.Instagram Check refuge advisories for any trail closures, as weather damage can impact access.Reddit

Trail Accessibility & Amenities

While some trails are paved and accessible,Reddit others are more moderate. The Two Rivers Trail is a longer option.Reddit Restroom facilities are limited, with a clean pit toilet at the upper trailhead.Reddit Be aware of narrow, winding roads leading to trailheads.Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Summer mornings
Why
Wildflowers and butterflies bloom
Crowd
Low
When
Fall & Winter afternoons
Why
Migratory birds and unique scenery
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge features panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, surrounding mountains, Haystack Rock and Cape Kiwanda. It offers excellent hiking, bird watching and protects habitat for waterfowl, deer, bear, songbirds, amphibians, salmon and trout. #tillamookcoast #oregoncoast #oregonexplored #hikeoregon
tillamookcoast
125 likes • 1.8K views

🥾 Wear sturdy shoes

Trails can be muddy or uneven, especially off the main paved paths.Reddit

🦋 Look for butterflies

Spring and summer are prime times to spot threatened silverspot butterflies.Instagram

Rufous Hummingbird puff-up 🧡 📍Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge #cloverdale 📸 Canon R6 camera, RF 600mm F11 lens 🎤 RODE VideoMic Pro+ #rufoushummingbird #irridescent #nestuccabaynationalwildliferefuge #hummingbirdvideo #canonusa #shotoncanon #oregonbirds @canonusa
navarres.wild.shots
5.5K likes • 44.4K views
A favorite spot on the Nestucca River. So different than it is in summertime, but so beautiful still #nestuccariver #nestuccabaynationalwildliferefuge #river #hike #oregoncoast #beautifuloregon
cutie_apocalypse
18 likes • 254 views

🦅 Spot local wildlife

Keep an eye out for deer, eagles, and various songbirds.Instagram

📸 Bring your camera

Perfect for capturing hummingbirds and scenic landscapes,Instagram.Instagram

There are some amazing hikes close to @swelllifepacificcity! This one is only a 10 minute drive away and explores the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The Two Rivers trail takes about an hour round trip and you get views of the Nestucca River and Little Nestucca River. Keep your eyes peeled for deer and eagles! 🦅
swelllifepacificcity
3 likes • 125 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear sturdy shoes

Trails can be muddy or uneven, especially off the main paved paths.Reddit

🦋 Look for butterflies

Spring and summer are prime times to spot threatened silverspot butterflies.Instagram

🦅 Spot local wildlife

Keep an eye out for deer, eagles, and various songbirds.Instagram

📸 Bring your camera

Perfect for capturing hummingbirds and scenic landscapes,Instagram.Instagram

🚗 Drive cautiously

Roads to trailheads are narrow with blind curves.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(301 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge for its stunning natural beauty, offering panoramic ocean and mountain views, and rich wildlife viewing opportunities. The accessible paved trails are a highlight, though some note limited amenities and the need for cautious driving on access roads.

"Absolutely beautiful!! Right now their viewing platform is blocked off because of weather damage, but it was still lovely. It was exciting to find such a massive beautiful meadow dedicated to butterflies and other wildlife!! We had a wonderful little walk up the path and reading the signs about the different flowers, and then finding them!"

Anna Bell

"A vast place with beautiful scenery. The parking lot is large, but the restroom is quite small. If you head to the left, you can enjoy views of the river and ocean from the observation deck. To the right, there's the Two River Trail. The trail is about 1.6 to 1.7 miles one way, so it's over 3 miles round trip. I recommend first taking the easy path to the observation deck. If you have more time, explore the trail. The view from the observation deck is much better, but the trail offers a cozy forest path. It seems there are picnic spots, but I didn't get to visit them."

Kai Dwd

"The paved path to the viewpoints is amazing and super accessible. The views are SO beautiful of the Pacific and the Coast Range and the coastal prairie area."

Susannah Krug

What People Like

Beautiful scenery and views
Abundant wildlife sightings
Accessible paved trails

What People Dislike

Limited restroom facilities
Narrow access roads

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The refuge is located near Cloverdale, Oregon. Access roads to trailheads can be narrow and winding, so drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings.Reddit There are multiple parking areas, with the upper trailhead offering access to the Two Rivers Trail and a pit toilet.Reddit

Public transport options are limited in this more rural area. It is generally recommended to have a personal vehicle for the most convenient access to the refuge and its various trailheads.

The roads leading to the upper trailheads are described as narrow, one-lane roads with blind curves and no shoulder. Pedestrians may also be present, so slow and careful driving is essential.Reddit

Yes, there are multiple parking areas. The upper trailhead parking lot provides access to trails and restrooms, while the lower parking area seems to have a gazebo but fewer direct trail connections.Reddit

Having a map or using a GPS device is recommended, especially for finding specific trailheads. The refuge is spread out, and signage can vary.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge is generally free to enter, allowing visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and wildlife without an admission charge. This makes it an accessible destination for all.

Wildlife refuges are typically open from dawn to dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check the official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website for any specific seasonal hours or temporary closures that might affect your visit.

No, advance booking is not required for general access to Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge as there is no entrance fee. You can visit spontaneously.

While the refuge is generally accessible during daylight hours, specific areas or facilities might have limited hours. Always check for any posted notices or official advisories upon arrival.

If a viewing platform is closed due to weather damage or maintenance, as noted in one review,Reddit explore other accessible trails and viewpoints within the refuge. The natural beauty is still abundant.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The refuge offers a variety of trails, including paved paths and boardwalks suitable for accessible viewing,Reddit as well as more moderate, natural trails like the Two Rivers Trail.Reddit The Two Rivers Trail is about 1.6 to 1.7 miles one way, offering a more immersive forest experience.Reddit

The refuge is a haven for diverse wildlife, including waterfowl, deer, songbirds, amphibians, salmon, and trout.Instagram During specific seasons, you might see butterflies like the threatened silverspot butterfly,Instagram and various hummingbirds,Instagram.Instagram

Absolutely! Nestucca Bay is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with opportunities to see waterfowl, songbirds like Swainson's thrushes and white-crowned sparrows,Instagram and even raptors like eagles.Instagram

Restroom facilities are limited. There is a clean, wheelchair-accessible pit toilet at the upper trailhead parking.Reddit Picnic spots are available but may not be easily accessible from all trailheads.Reddit

The observation deck offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding landscape.Reddit The Two Rivers Trail also provides scenic vistas along the river confluence.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The refuge is a photographer's paradise, offering opportunities to capture stunning landscapes, diverse birdlife like Rufous Hummingbirds,Instagram,Instagram and delicate wildflowers and butterflies,Instagram.Instagram

For wildlife, a telephoto lens is highly recommended to get close-up shots of birds and other animals without disturbing them. A camera with good low-light performance is also beneficial for dawn and dusk photography.Instagram

The observation deck provides sweeping panoramic views.Reddit The Two Rivers Trail offers intimate forest scenes and river views.Instagram The butterfly meadow is a vibrant spot during its season.Instagram

Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography, known as the 'golden hours.' These times also coincide with increased wildlife activity.

Yes, during butterfly season, you can photograph the silverspot butterfly. Remember to be respectful of their habitat and avoid disturbing them.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers a fantastic opportunity for families to connect with nature. The paved and boardwalk trails are great for strollers and young walkers, providing easy access to beautiful views.Reddit Kids will be fascinated by the diverse wildlife, from soaring eagles Instagram to colorful butterflies Instagram and busy hummingbirds.Instagram

Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The Two Rivers Trail offers a longer adventure for families with older children who enjoy hiking. Reading the interpretive signs about local flora and fauna can add an educational element to the visit. Remember to keep a close eye on children, especially near water or on more challenging trails, and encourage them to observe wildlife from a distance.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to explore on foot, the Two Rivers Trail presents a rewarding moderate hike of over 3 miles round trip, showcasing river views and forest scenery.Reddit The refuge's varied terrain and ecosystems provide a rich experience for nature lovers, with opportunities for birdwatching,Instagram Instagram and observing unique plant life like wildflowers,Instagram.Instagram

Consider visiting during spring and summer for wildflower blooms and butterfly sightings,Instagram or during fall and winter for different bird migrations and coastal moods.Instagram The accessible paved paths also offer pleasant strolls for those who prefer less strenuous walks but still want to enjoy the refuge's beauty and viewpoints.Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find ample inspiration at Nestucca Bay. The refuge is renowned for its birdlife, particularly the Rufous Hummingbird, offering incredible close-up opportunities with the right telephoto lens,Instagram.Instagram The scenic landscapes, from ocean vistas Reddit to river views Instagram and vibrant meadows teeming with butterflies,Instagram provide diverse subjects.

Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal for capturing the best shots. Be prepared for varying weather conditions common to the Oregon coast. The refuge's commitment to conservation means you're likely to encounter healthy populations of wildlife and a thriving natural environment, perfect for stunning nature photography.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Wildlife Watching at Nestucca Bay

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a vital habitat for a wide array of species. Visitors can expect to see various waterfowl, especially during migratory seasons. The refuge also supports populations of deer, songbirds, amphibians, and fish like salmon and trout.Instagram Keep your eyes peeled for eagles soaring overhead Instagram and smaller creatures like California ground squirrels.Instagram

For avid birdwatchers, the refuge is a gem. Rufous Hummingbirds are a particular highlight, with opportunities to capture their iridescent plumage and behaviors,Instagram.Instagram The refuge also hosts songbirds such as Swainson's thrushes and white-crowned sparrows.Instagram During the warmer months, the meadows come alive with butterflies, including the threatened silverspot butterfly, a testament to the refuge's conservation efforts.Instagram

Remember that wildlife is most active during the early morning and late afternoon. Patience and quiet observation are key to a rewarding wildlife viewing experience. Always maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding any animals.

Exploring the Trails and Scenery

The refuge offers a mix of trails catering to different abilities. The paved path leading to the observation deck is highly accessible and provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal prairie.Reddit For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Two Rivers Trail is a moderate, approximately 1.6 to 1.7-mile one-way hike that winds through a cozy forest and leads to the confluence of the Nestucca and Little Nestucca Rivers,Reddit.Instagram

While the observation deck offers expansive vistas, the Two Rivers Trail provides a more intimate connection with the natural environment. Some visitors have noted that while the hike is rewarding, a bench at the trail's end would be a welcome addition.Reddit Along the trails, you might encounter diverse flora, including wildflowers like rose spirea,Instagram and the changing scenery from summer to other seasons offers unique perspectives.Instagram

When planning your hike, be aware that the roads to the upper trailheads are narrow and winding, requiring slow and cautious driving.Reddit The refuge's beauty changes with the seasons, offering distinct experiences whether you visit during the vibrant bloom of spring or the more subdued, yet equally beautiful, coastal atmosphere of fall and winter.Instagram

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