Contact Information
1115 Commercial Street NE
Salem, OR 97301
800-551-6949
In earlier times, the Winchuck River marked the most northern territory and fishing village of the Tolowa Indian tribe. Crissey Field provides the first available beach access north of the California-Oregon border. In World War II, the area was named for the famous military base near San Francisco. The area served as a coastal air strip and refueling station for reconnaissance flights patrolling the northern California and southern Oregon beaches searching for Japanese submarines. Remnants of the original bunkers can still be found with a bit of searching.This rustic park offers a place of solitude that invites introspection and wildlife viewing. Stroll along the edge of the Winchuck River estuary until it joins the Pacific Ocean. Birds abounds. Harbor seals and California sea lions surf and feed in this rich mix of fresh and salt water. Follow the trail through ancient driftwood logs into a fragile dune system filled with unique native plants species, miniature wetlands and old-growth Sitka spruce trees.
Vital stats: There is no fee to use this park. For information, call 1-800-551-6949.
Crissey Field offers good opportunities for wildlife-watching, bird-watching, marine mammal-watching, beach access, swimming, fishing, walking, boating viewing historic sites and viewing nature.
The Oregon coast receives abundant rainfall, mostly between October and April. July and August bring the best chance for clear days. Summer temperatures are normally moderate and almost never hot. Winter temperatures are normally cool at the lower elevations and cold at the higher elevations. Although snow is possible in the lowest elevations, it is infrequent.
