Three Arch Rocks
Newport, OR 97365-5258
Plan Your Visit
Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge, located a half-mile off the Oregon coast, can be viewed from the mainland at Cape Meares and from Oceanside Beach, in the community of Oceanside. The steep cliffs and grassy rocks are home to wary seabirds and marine mammals, intolerant of human attentions. To prevent disturbance to these sensitive wildlife, Three Arch Rocks is closed to public entry year-round, and waters within 500 feet of the refuge are closed to all watercraft from May 1st through September 15th, during the breeding season.
Although Three Arch Rocks NWR is closed to public entry to protect wildlife, the thronging seabirds and marine mammals found there can be enjoyed with scopes and binoculars from nearby lands. No matter what time of year one visits the Oregon coast, wildlife are plentiful and often easy to see.
A word of warning: Coastal areas, with their steep cliffs, strong currents and heavy surf, can be extremely dangerous. Exercise caution during your visit. Stay away from cliff edges and observe posted warnings.
Activities
Featured Species
Get Involved
Whether you want to further conservation, learn more about nature or share your love of the outdoors, you’ve come to the right place. National Wildlife Refuges provide many opportunities for you to help your community and fish and wildlife by doing what you love.
Services
If you are interested in any services (permits, passes, etc.) contact the Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
About
Established in October 1907, Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge was the first National Wildlife Refuge established west of the Mississippi River. The refuge, consisting of nine offshore rocks totaling 15 acres, was protected following the conservation efforts of William L. Finley and Herman Bohlman. Today, it is a designated National Wilderness Area that sustains Oregon's largest and most diverse seabird colony and serves as a vital breeding site for Steller sea lions.