Cape Arago State Park, Nature reserve in Coos County, Oregon.
This coastal park encompasses rocky headlands, tidepools, and sea stacks extending into the Pacific Ocean, offering visitors scenic trails through native vegetation and access to observation points for marine wildlife viewing.
Originally named Cape Gregory by explorer James Cook in 1778, the area was later renamed in honor of French physicist Dominique F. J. Arago following the US Coast Survey of 1850, reflecting its navigation significance.
Native American tribes historically utilized this coastline for fishing, gathering resources, and navigation purposes, leaving a cultural legacy evident in local sites and traditional knowledge of marine ecosystems.
The park operates daily from early morning until dusk with parking areas, restrooms, picnic tables, and designated viewing platforms, though some facilities may experience closures due to storm damage or maintenance issues.
Shell Island within the park serves as part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, providing breeding and resting habitat for seabirds and marine mammals while remaining closed to public access for protection.
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