Skip to main content

Outdoor Science and Learning

The Forest Service provides a variety of educational resources and programs for individuals of all ages to learn about the environment and our nation’s forests and grasslands.

Interpretive Areas/Exhibits

The Forest Service uses interpretive areas to educate and engage the public about the natural and cultural resources of national forests, often through signs, exhibits, and programs. Interpretive areas serve to inform visitors about the history, ecology, and cultural significance of a particular place, encouraging respect for the environment and promoting responsible recreation.

Visitor Centers

The Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, in the heart of the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, has a phenomenal view of the ocean from inside and from the wheelchair accessible deck. The area offers lots of great activities and adventures for families. Staff are available to provide updates on trail conditions, road closures and other information that will make your trip more enjoyable.

Search for Outdoor Science and Learning Opportunities

Showing: 1 - 10 of 54 results

Blackberry Campground

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Outdoor Science and Learning Picnicking Water Activities
Blackberry Campground is perched on a heavily wooded bluff among tall cedars and Douglas fir overlooking the Alsea River. Some of the 32 sites overlook the river and others are situated beside a…

Bluebill Trail #1331

Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
This 1.2-mile (one-way) trail loops around Bluebill Lake, a seasonal lake where water levels vary. The lake can be dry in the summer and hikers may experience high water on the west side of the trail…

Cape Cove Trail #1364.1

Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
After coming through the tunnel under Highway 101 from the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, turn right and go over the bridge into the parking lot. Follow the roadside trail north. This trail will…

Cape Mountain Trails #1329

Horse Riding and Camping Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
A series of trails forming loops meanders across the forest slopes of Cape Mountain, high above the Pacific Ocean to make up this 17.0 mile trail system. Spectacular views of the ocean and river…

Cape Perpetua Trailhead

Site Open
Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
Conveniently located at the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, this trailhead is the perfect place to begin your explorations of the unique coastal forest of Cape Perpetua Scenic Area. This is the…

Cape Perpetua Visitor Center

Site Open
Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning Picnicking
The Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, in the heart of the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area has a phenomenal view of the ocean from inside, and from the wheelchair accessible deck. Open seven days a week most of…

Captain Cook Trail #1364.2

Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
From forest to tidepools, and back again, this one-mile round trip hike starts at the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center. The paved trail leads you past an old Civilian Conservation Corps camp, through…

Carter Dunes Trail #1384

Picnicking Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
At the interface of the trees and sand, hikers can follow the blue-striped trail post that mark the way over the sand, through the deflation plain and end at the beach. From winter through early…

Cascade Head Scenic Research Area

Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
Notice: Two closure orders exist in the Cascade Head area: (1) Forest Road 1861 due to 2021 landslides until further notice, view map for more information; and (2) a natural resource-related…

Last updated March 17, 2025