Neskowin Ghost Forest: History, Location, & Best Time to Visit

Discover the eerie past of an ancient Sitka Spruce forest that was buried under the sand for centuries at one of the Oregon Coast’s most unique and fascinating destinations, the Neskowin Ghost Forest. 

History 

Scientists believe this ghost forest formed in the 1700s when a cataclysmic earthquake hit the Oregon coastline, submerging an entire forest of Sitka Spruces for more than three centuries. However, during the intense storms of 1997-98, El Nino pummeled the coastline to reveal more than 100 timeworn stumps of what was once a mighty forest with trees over 150 feet tall. 

The stumps are now covered in barnacles, mussels, and other sea life. The center of some of larger stumps have been eroded away creating shallow pools where you can sometimes see crabs and other small fish waiting for the tide to comb back in and release them back into the ocean.  

Where is the Neskowin Ghost Forest? 

The Neskowin Ghost Forest is located within the Neskowin Beach State Recreation Site, near Proposal Rock. The beach is about a 5-minute walk from the public parking lot.  

When is the Best Time to Visit? 

While the area is accessible year-round, it’s not always clearly visible, so the best time to see the ancient forest is in the summer, during low tide. We recommend looking at the tide chart, and plan to arrive an hour before low tide to give you enough time to park, make your way to the beach, and cross the Neskowin Creek. 

Summer Scoops 

Make sure and stop by Neskowin’s Farmers Market. This beloved community event takes place every Saturday from May 22 – October 1, from 9am till 1pm. Pick up some delicious cheese from and some wine from for a relaxing happy hour back at your cozy Oregon Beach Vacation rental.