Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will agree that the 224 Oregon state parks are some of the most magnificent in the country.
The state’s rich legacy and breathtaking landscape attract numerous visitors year-round. You can go camping, hiking, biking or enjoy the sandy beaches of the 382-mile long Oregon Coast Trail.
You’ll have a rare opportunity to go whale-watching in the Beverly Beach state park along the coastline or observe the diverse wildlife in the Ecola state park.
Keep reading to discover the best state parks in Oregon and why you should visit them.
Silver Falls State Park
In the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon lies the crown jewel of the Oregon state parks known as Silver Falls.
Outdoor adventurers, horse riders, and campers return to this park year-round, charmed by its waterfalls, trails and creeks.
The South Falls are known for their day-use areas where visitors gather for picnics, barbecues, family reunions and even wedding ceremonies. If you’d like to stay overnight or a couple of days, there are cabins, campgrounds and RV sites to accommodate you.
Cottonwood Canyon State Park
Covering over 8000 acres, the Cottonwood Canyon state park attracts equestrians, hikers, and bikers on its many trails.
You can explore nature at the Lost Corral Trail and the Pinnacles Trail or go fishing for smallmouth bass, steelhead, and carp on the John Day River. And if you’d like to add some adventure to your visit, the J.S. Burres day area is a launch point for kayaking, rafting, and canoeing.
The park is a vast, arid land with vertical cliffs, and it is these endless rocks that make it so charming. There are also designated campgrounds suitable for tents and RVs if you want to spend a few days here.
Ecola State Park
With 9 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline and over a thousand acres of lush scenery, Ecola state park is the perfect spot for hiking, surfing, sightseeing, and whale-watching.
One of the most popular trails on the park territory is the 6-mile long Tillamook Head Trail. It represents the exploration route of Captain William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1806.
Camping is not the park’s strong suit, although you can stay at the Hiker’s Camp overnight if you hike the Oregon Coast Trail. The camp has basic minimalistic shelters with wooden bunk beds, but there is no water, showers or flush toilets.
Beverly Beach State Park
One of the most popular Oregon state parks is the Beverly Beach, known for its long, dreamy beaches, forest campgrounds and whale-watching points.
The park expands from Otter Rock to Yaquina Head and has 53 full hook-up campground sites. For your convenience, half of them are equipped with cable TV, and many have flush toilets, hot showers, and RV stations.
Start Planning Your Trip to the Best Oregon State Parks
Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer or a quiet camper, the state parks in Oregon offer something for everyone.
Ready to plan your next big family camping trip? Check out our custom teardrop trailers or contact us today to learn more!