9 Overlooked Oregon State Parks You Should Explore This Year

With 197 state parks, Oregon is filled to the brim with enchanting places for you and your family to relax and unwind. While the following nine state parks are a bit off the beaten path, they definitely deserve a place on your bucket list. These are 9 overlooked state parks to visit in Oregon. Check 'em out:

1. Lake Owyhee State Park (Nyssa)

Located about 50 miles south of Ontario on the shores of Lake Owyhee, this remote state park is brimming with unique natural beauty and otherworldly rock formations. To reach Lake Owyhee, you'll follow a long road through the scenic canyon. While the road can be rough and narrow at times, the drive is filled with some of the Beaver State's most jaw-dropping scenery. Click here for more information.

2. Bullards Beach State Park (Bandon)

This large, family-friendly park includes campsites, yurts, picnic areas, horse riders and trails, boat launch facilities, as well as access to the picturesque beach nearby. One of the most enchanting spots is the historic Coquille River Lighthouse, which is located at the end of Bullards Beach Road. Click here for more information.

3. Peter Skeene Ogden State Park (Terrebonne)

Part state park, part scenic viewpoint, this incredible natural area belongs on every Oregonian's bucket list. If you're not afraid of heights, you can walk across the spectacular canyon on one of three bridges. In total, the canyon is 400 feet wide and 300 feet deep. Click here for more information.

4. La Pine State Park (La Pine)

Discover crisp forest air and legendary fly fishing at La Pine State Park. Surrounded by miles upon miles of pristine wilderness (and Oregon's largest ponderosa pine tree), you'll never run out of places to explore. Click here for more information.

5. Memaloose State Park (Mosier)

Situated on the banks of the Columbia River, Memaloose State Park makes for a positively enchanting getaway. With awe-inspiring views of the Columbia River Gorge and plenty of prime star-gazing spots, this is one park you'll definitely want to plan a visit this year. Click here for more information.

6. Carl G. Washburne State Park (Florence)

Escape to an oasis of peace and serenity on the Oregon Coast with a visit to Carl G. Washburne State Park. Located on a picturesque 5-mile beach, visitors have access to whale watching spots, wildlife viewing areas and hiking trails that lead to Heceta Head Lighthouse. Click here for more information.

7. Starvation Creek State Park (Cascade Locks)

Located right off of Highway 30, it's possible to mistake this tiny state park for a mere rest stop. Starvation Creek is much more than it appears, however. This stunning natural area is home to lush green forest, charming little creeks, well-maintained hiking trails and a gorgeous waterfall. Click here for more information.

8. William M. Tugman State Park (Lakeside)

Experience your own private hideaway with a yurt stay at this quiet state park. Nestled on Eel Lake, visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking and more. The centrally located park is close to the amazing Oregon Dunes Recreation area and other gems on Oregon's south coast. Click here for more information.

9. Rooster Rock State Park (Corbett)

From stunning panoramas of the Cascade mountains, to charming meadows filled with vibrant wildflowers, Rooster Rock is a place of endless beauty. The park offers two disc golf courses, plenty of gentle hiking trails, picturesque beaches and camping. You'll also find one of Oregon's two designated clothing optional beaches here. If going au naturel isn't your thing, rest assured that this part of the park is completely separate from the clothing-required area.

Click here for more information.

What do you think about these 9 state parks to visit in Oregon? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts, photos and experiences with us below!

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out this beachside paradise that's one of the best things to do outside in Oregon.