I was visiting the Newport area on a very stormy weekend, and wanted easy parking, great views, and immediate access to the beach. After a brief search online, a few reviews pointed to Lost Creek State Park just seven miles south of Newport. I decided to give it a shot!
Just off the highway, visitors will find a medium sized parking lot with space for roughly 20-25 cars. Half of the parking spaces face the ocean with only a 4 foot fence between the parking lot and the bluff below. There are great views just from the parking lot!
Immediately to the left visitors will find a paved path that goes downhill to a public restroom, with a fair number of very sturdy picnic tables that line the path all the way to the beach below. This site makes for a great place to stop for a picnic and enjoy the ocean views. The path to the beach isn't very steep, however the pavement is a little bumpy due to root growth below, as well as some potholes. The park has done a pretty good job of outlining some of the bigger bumps and holes to alert folks with mobility issues. The trail is passable for wheelchairs as long as someone helps to navigate the bumps.
There are many recreation sites along the coast, but if you're looking for quick and easy access to the beach at a site that might not have too many visitors, I have a hunch this is a safe bet. read more