McVay Rock State Recreation Site

McVay Rock State Recreation Site is a recreational area along the Pacific coast near Brookings with steep rocky cliffs and direct access to beaches via narrow pathways. The grounds feature areas for fishing and shellfish gathering plus a nine-hole disc golf course with ocean views.

The name comes from William R. McVay, who settled in this region in 1861 and influenced how the area developed. Oregon acquired the land in the 1970s and made it a protected recreational site for the public.

The site draws people who want to combine nature and recreation while access is carefully designed to protect the coastal ecosystem. The use by fishers and gatherers reflects a long tradition of sustainably using ocean resources.

The site is easy to reach on foot but has some steep pathways down to the shore that require care. It is best visited during calm weather since conditions at the exposed coast can change quickly.

The rock formation that gave the site its name no longer exists because it was quarried for building material before the land was protected. This history shows how attitudes toward coastal preservation in Oregon have changed over time.

Location: Oregon

Website: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=54

GPS coordinates: 42.01900,-124.23300

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:23