Tucked between Sunset Bay and Cape Arago state parks on the Oregon coast, Shore Acres State Park covers the grounds of the old Simpson Estate. The day park is known for its formal gardens and spectacular shoreline cliffs. The gardens are all that remain from the Simpson estate, and continue to put on a show of color for almost the entire year. Thousands of early spring bulbs begin the season with masses of tulip and daffodil blooms. Azaleas and rhododendrons give way to summer annuals and a variety of rose bushes. Winter holiday lights keep the festive spirit alive and keep the gardens dressed in color for the remainder of the year.
Lumberman and shipbuilder, Louis B. Simpson, enjoyed this wonderful seaside setting until fire destroyed his three story mansion in 1921. Even though the Simpson home was replaced, the home fell into disrepair during the Depression Era. The state was able to purchase Shore Acres in 1941 and continued maintenance on the seaside garden. An observation tower now stands on the mansion site, allowing a birds-eye view of the beautiful, but rugged coastline.