Gold Beach

Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint

Pistol River State Park is set in the dunes of the southern Oregon coast. The river supposedly got its name when a militia soldier lost his pistol in the river during the infamous Rogue River Indian War. In March of 1856, a decisive battle was fought here. The dunes and the river system that feeds them are what make this area unique. During the spring and summer months, the dunes actually grow.