3 Oregon state parks close due to damages from Christmas windstorm

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Three Oregon state parks were forced to close this week following the Christmas storm that brought 60-mph gusts to the Oregon Coast. The storm flooded roads, downed trees and cut power to thousands across Northwest Oregon.

Cape Meares State Park was among the parks closed Thursday, but the park reopened Friday for Winter Whale Watch Week. Saddle Mountain and Ecola State Park, meanwhile, will remain closed through the weekend and into next week, Oregon Parks Department spokesperson Stefanie Knowlton told KOIN 6 News.

“The recent storm caused power outages and downed trees and limbs at parks throughout the state, particularly along the coast and in the valley,” Knowlton said. “At least nine parks lost power. Stub Stewart is still without power and had to close shower facilities for Dairy Creek West and the Cabin Dale Cabin loop.”

State Park visitors are encouraged to check the Oregon State Parks website for the latest closure information.