This gentle coastal creek is located in Brian Booth State Park, approximately 10 minutes south of Newport near Seal Rock, off Highway 101. The creek flows through marshes and wetlands before opening to the Pacific Ocean at Ona Beach. Part of the Beaver Creek watershed that connects old-growth forests with coastal dunes, estuary, and marsh habitats downstream. The park encompasses 886 acres with a viewing deck one mile east of Highway 101 offering interpretive panels about the area’s ecology and wildlife.

Water Conditions & Skill Level Beginner-friendly. Three-mile flatwater paddle with minimal current, making it suitable for paddlers of all experience levels. The slow current allows paddling in either direction without needing a shuttle. Creek meanders through wide, flat bends that narrow as you head upstream. Creek depth and width vary by season – deeper and wider after rain, potentially shallower in summer. Quick access to the Pacific Ocean from the launch point.

Access & Launch Primary launch at the wide, paved boat ramp on North Beaver Creek Road (east side of Highway 101), just off the highway – immediate right turn after entering Beaver Creek Road. Gentle slope to water makes for an accessible launch. Secondary primitive boat launch available about a mile east on North Beaver Creek Road near the Welcome Center, accessible via wide boardwalk along the seasonal Beaver Marsh Trail. Non-motorized boats only. Year-round parking available along South Beaver Creek Road.

What You’ll See Exceptional wildlife viewing. Beaver, river otter, muskrat, nutria, deer, elk, and black-tailed deer frequent the area. Abundant birdlife including herons, osprey, red-winged blackbirds, finches, and wide range of migratory and residential species. Smaller side channels show tracks of birds and small animals. Creek meanders through varied habitats including wooded areas, marshes, wetlands, cattails, and grassy fields. Sitka spruce and alder forested hills surround the valley. Heading east leads upstream through wildlife-filled riparian habitat. Heading west leads to the Pacific Ocean at Ona Beach. Some paddlers report seeing 20+ river otters on a single trip. Watch for small “v” shapes crossing the water – could be an otter.

Best Times to Go Year-round paddling available. Best weather July through September with warmer temperatures and lowest chance of rain. Early morning recommended for best wildlife viewing and calm conditions – arrive around 8am for empty parking and no wind. November excellent for migratory bird watching. Weekdays much less crowded than weekends and summer. Popular on weekends, especially during summer – expect crowds and book guided tours well in advance if desired.

Amenities Beaver Creek Welcome Center located one mile east of Highway 101, open daily 10am-4pm. Friendly volunteers provide hiking and kayaking suggestions, post recent wildlife sightings, tide forecasts, and weather information. Ona Beach day-use area has large parking lot, picnic area (great for large gatherings), quarter-mile scenic nature trail to beach access. Five miles of hiking trails through marsh and coastal forest. NOTE: Restrooms at Ona Beach day-use area currently closed. No camping at Brian Booth State Park. Nearby camping available at Beachside State Recreation Site and South Beach State Park (6 miles north near Newport, 200+ sites).

Fees & Notes State park day-use fees apply. Some paddlers may encounter a barbed wire fence if paddling far enough upstream. Oregon Coast weather can be chilly even in summer – dress in moisture-wicking layers and bring dry bag for extra clothing. Check tide conditions if planning to paddle to the ocean. Brian Booth State Park named in 2013 to honor Brian Booth, first chairperson of Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission. The park is the western terminus of the Corvallis to the Sea Trail.