Neskowin Ghost Forest
Eerie ancient tree stumps emerge from the sand at low tide on Neskowin Beach, a haunting glimpse into Oregon's geological past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stumps emerge from the sea
Neskowin Ghost Forest
Best Time
Stumps emerge from the sea
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Eerie ancient tree stumps emerge from the sand at low tide on Neskowin Beach, a haunting glimpse into Oregon's geological past.
"The ghost forest is disintegrating fast, but the larger stumps and Proposal Rock are gorgeous!"
Check Tide Charts Religiously
The ghost forest is only visible during extreme low tides. Plan your visit around these times! :clock10:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
You'll be walking on thick sand and potentially wading. Good shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 276 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neskowin Ghost Forest Stumps
Neskowin Beach
Ancient, moss-covered tree stumps emerge from the sand at low tide, a haunting glimpse into the past.
Proposal Rock
Neskowin Beach
A striking rock formation, perfect for photos, especially as the tide rolls in.
Neskowin Beach
Neskowin
A beautiful, peaceful beach with fine sand, ideal for walking and kite flying.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Ghost Forest
Navigating to the Ancient Stumps
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Planning a trip to the Ghost Forest - tips and suggestions for other places to visit?
Title. From what I've been reading, end of Winter seems to be the ideal time to visit due to the low tide. Besides that, really want to stop by Portland and see some other points of interest. From Michigan, so the weather won't really be much of a bother. Just wanted to gauge…
Check Tide Charts Religiously
The ghost forest is only visible during extreme low tides. Plan your visit around these times! :clock10:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
You'll be walking on thick sand and potentially wading. Good shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
The Neskowin Ghost Forest is the remnants of an ancient Sitka spruce forest on the Oregon Coast
I’m not a Wikipedia editor, but someone needs to get in there and stop recommending going onto tidal flats in Oregon in the winter. It specifically recommends visiting in sneaker wave season during low tide. I don’t care if you accidentally bump an old stump, please view from a…
POV: You ditched everything and went to Neskowin.
I love this beach.
The 'Forest' is Small
Manage expectations; it's a few stumps, not an entire forest, but still captivating. :camerawithflash:
Bring Snacks & Enjoy
Pack some snacks and enjoy the peaceful beach, kite flying, and views. :apple:
The Neskowin Ghost Forest in Oregon, where ancient petrified tree stumps protrude from the sand at low tide [OC] [1200x1500]
Neskowin is a really beautiful spot, make sure to go at low tide to see it like this. More on my IG [@luciddude](http://www.instagram.com/luciddude).
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Charts Religiously
The ghost forest is only visible during extreme low tides. Plan your visit around these times! :clock10:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
You'll be walking on thick sand and potentially wading. Good shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
The 'Forest' is Small
Manage expectations; it's a few stumps, not an entire forest, but still captivating. :camerawithflash:
Bring Snacks & Enjoy
Pack some snacks and enjoy the peaceful beach, kite flying, and views. :apple:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique sight of the ancient stumps at Neskowin Ghost Forest, a stark reminder of geological history. While the 'forest' is smaller than some expect, the beach itself, with Proposal Rock, is beautiful and peaceful, offering a rewarding experience for those who time their visit with low tides and are prepared for the walk.
"It was nice and sunny when we visited Neskowin beach, so we didn't get chance to view the famous ghost forest. Meanwhile, just the beach, rock and island themselves are totally worth the trip.
The beach sand is fine, and flat, very pleasant to walk on bare feet and enjoy the view of water reflection. The hollow rocks on the beach saved sea water inside them, with little shells and crabs living inside. Very fun to observe them. The arch in the little island is a perfect place to take pictures.
Love this beautiful and peaceful beach. Highly recommended."
Stanley Yuan
"It's a beautiful spot, but the ghost forest is disintegrating fast. The pictures on here from two years ago look nothing like what we saw today! Still neat to see the larger stumps and the beach with Proposal Rock is gorgeous! We walked, flew a kite, had some snacks…. Park at the lot for Neskowin Beach, follow the signs to the trail, walk down the thick sand (need good feet, ankles, and knees), cross the little river (less than knee deep at the deepest spots during low tide), and your there! It’s south of Proposal Rock and there are really just a few vs an entire forest."
Angie Mendoza
"This small beach is perfect for a single day trip. But, it's violent history leaves you with eerie curiosity for the future. The location that caused us to ask, "How did these trees get this way?" Brought us to understand how Oregons coast line sits on the brink of tectonic plates, and could at any moment bring us towards unspeakable catastrophe.
And yet, how can one think of such things with these gorgeous sandy beaches? If you have a gorgeous afternoon to escape to the coast, this location will certainly give you gorgeous views and luscious waves to captivate you. Be sure to check it out."
TJ Lombardi _Author
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Park at the Neskowin Beach lot and follow signs for the trail. You'll walk down thick sand and may need to cross a shallow tidal river, especially during low tide.
Yes, there is a parking lot available at Neskowin Beach, which serves as the starting point for accessing the ghost forest.
The walk is about 15-20 minutes on soft sand. Be prepared for the terrain and potential water crossings.
No, you cannot drive directly to the ghost forest. It requires a walk from the designated parking area.
The trail involves walking on thick sand and potentially wading through water, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Neskowin Ghost Forest. It is a natural attraction accessible from the public beach.
Generally, Neskowin Beach does not have entrance fees. Parking is usually free, but it's always good to check local signage for any updates.
The ghost forest is a natural phenomenon and is accessible whenever the tide is low. There are no set operating hours.
The best time to visit is during extreme low tides, which are most common in the winter months. Always check tide charts beforehand.
It's safest to visit during daylight hours and when the tide is at its lowest. Be aware of changing tides and weather conditions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a collection of ancient, waterlogged tree stumps that become visible on Neskowin Beach during extreme low tides, remnants of a forest submerged centuries ago.
While the name suggests a forest, visitors report seeing only a few larger stumps, rather than an extensive collection.
Neskowin Beach itself is beautiful, with fine sand, Proposal Rock, and opportunities for walking and kite flying.
Swimming is possible, but be aware of ocean conditions and currents. The beach is more known for its scenic beauty and the unique ghost forest.
Yes, Proposal Rock is particularly photogenic, and the eerie stumps of the ghost forest offer unique photographic opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Neskowin is a small community, and dining options might be limited. It's advisable to check local listings or consider dining in nearby towns like Pacific City.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. Many visitors bring their own snacks and enjoy them on the beach.
Expect casual dining options. For a wider variety, you might need to travel a short distance to larger coastal towns.
Local cafes may be available, but it's best to confirm their operating hours and locations before your visit.
Given the limited dining options directly at the beach, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended for a comfortable visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient stumps themselves are the main draw. Proposal Rock also offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially with the tide.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful, but the key is to capture the stumps during low tide.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. The unique subject matter will make for great shots.
Drone regulations vary by location. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.
Expect moody, atmospheric shots of the ancient stumps, dramatic coastal landscapes with Proposal Rock, and reflections on wet sand.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit