Oregon Coast Exploring

Prehistoric Gardens

Prehistoric Gardens

There are many amazing things to be found along the Southern Oregon coastline, including lush rainforests, historic lighthousesexpansive beaches, great hiking trails, and stunning sunsets. The most surprising thing to be found along the Southern Oregon coast, however, is dinosaurs. Yes, that is correct - there are dinosaurs along the Southern Oregon coast. Unfortunately, these dinosaurs aren't alive, and the Southern Oregon coast isn't the Lost World - but for a small fee, you can experience one man's version of what life looked like back in the days of the Cretaceous and Jurassic periods. Prehistoric Gardens is the life's work and creation of one man - Ernie "E.V." Nelson. In 1953, he moved to the Oregon Coast; and decided that his property needed a little more flair - so he began building and painting giant replicas of dinosaurs. In 1955, he decided that rather than keep the dinosaurs private, he would have his own theme park, and so Prehistoric Gardens began. Today, the park is still owned and operated by Ernie's descendants. 

Cape Blanco Lighthouse

Cape Blanco Lighthouse

Nestled along the southern Oregon Coast is the Cape Blanco Lighthouse. Although it is a relatively unassuming structure, this lighthouse holds a number of interesting records.