Rocky sea stacks, Harris Beach State Park

A hidden Northwest gem

In the far southern stretches of Oregon is a state park that's a microcosm of what makes this region's coastline so special: a wide expanse of soft sand and rocky tide pools, plenty of thriving wildlife, and sea stacks lining the surf with Sitka spruce towering over the bluffs. Bonus? Harris Beach State Park isn't typically crowded like the more heavily touristed parts of the coastline up north. There's an off-the-beaten-path vibe about the place, but it's not inaccessible. Modern facilities are available, and campers reserve spots for RVs, tents, and even yurts well in advance.