Pull out to explore the beach, then paddle back the way you came. Siltcoos Lake was originally dammed by sand dunes that moved in from the ocean beaches with the west winds. The dunes near the lake are overgrown with forests now, but miles of open sand hills still line the coast. This river is one of the best places on the coast to see kingfishers, egrets, osprey, and other water-loving birds. Because endangered snowy plovers nest in the driftwood zone near the river's mouth, a portion of that area has been closed to public access.
Signs mark the closed area.
It's especially important not to let dogs run free on the beach near the river's mouth. They're available at ranger stations and outdoor stores. 126 to Florence. From Florence, drive south on Hwy. 101 for eight miles, turn left at a sign for Tyee Campground, and park at the campground's boat ramp.