Winchester Bay, formerly Umpqua City, is an unincorporated community in Douglas County, Oregon, United States. For statistical purposes, the United States Census Bureau has defined Winchester Bay as a census-designated place (CDP). The census definition of the area may not precisely correspond to local understanding of the area with the same name. As of the 2020 census, Winchester Bay had a population of 462. The community of Umpqua City was established in 1850.
Geography and climate
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of , of which is land and , or 26.24%, is water.
Demographics
2000 Census data
As of the census Tourism is a significant component of the economy with recreational vehicle use on the nearby sand dunes, tours of the Umpqua River Lighthouse, and crabbing in the bay as the primary attractions. Winchester Bay, formerly referred to as Whistling Basin by the small Native American population, has seen a marked increase in tourism despite being a sparsely populated outpost. The merchant association has dubbed the community as the "Crab Capital of the World." The largest annual activity is the annual Dune Fest, usually a five-day event. In recent years, Siuslaw National Forest enforcement of alcohol consumption and under-age drinking was enacted to improve safety for participants. Medical care is available at Lower Umpqua Hospital in nearby Reedsport.