Prehistoric Gardens

Full size model of a Pteranodon - one of the largest flying animals of all time with a wing span of over 20 feet.

Prehistoric Gardens, near Port Orford, Oregon, is located in a coastal rain forest - the perfect location for a dinosaur display.

Ernie 'E.V.' Nelson, loved dinosaurs and in 1953 started building full size replicas. In January, 1955, he opened Prehistoric Gardens. Eventually 23 full size dinosaurs roamed his property.

Nelson passed away in 1991 and the park is now run by his grandchildren. Unlike other roadside attractions along the 101, this park is well maintained and shows few signs of its age.

Flickr gallery: 2016 Prehistoric Gardens