9 Lesser-Known State Parks In Oregon That Will Absolutely Amaze You
Oregon is home to more than 100 state parks, each offering up its own unique scenery and attractions. Our parks are popular, logging more than 50 million visits in 2017 alone. However, some parks are more popular than others. Here are 9 lesser-known state parks to visit in Oregon this year. They definitely belong on your bucket list, especially if you want to get away from the crowds to bask in the natural beauty of the Beaver State!
This pretty park is north of Klamath Falls on the Wood River. You'll find gorgeous quaking aspen forests, primitive camping, and plenty of excellent fishing opportunities here. Want to learn more? Visit the official website for Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site.
Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site, Chiloquin, OR 97624, USA
You'll find Catherine Creek State Park in Central Oregon, just east of I-84. You'll definitely want to spend the night at the campground here, where the sites are primitive, but the restrooms offer flush toilets. The scenic beauty is pretty much all around you. For more information, visit the official website for Catherine Creek State Park.
Catherine Creek State Park, Medical Springs Hwy, Union, OR 97883, USA
The OC&E Woods Line State Trail stretches 109 miles from Klamath Falls to Sycan Marsh. Once a rail line for the Oregon, California, and Eastern Railroad, this rail-to-trail route features stunning canyons, rural fields, and a gorgeous trestle bridge. For more information, visit the website for OC&E Woods Line State Trail.
Oc&E Woods Line State Trail, Klamath Falls, OR, USA
In the far southeastern corner of the state, Booth State Scenic Corridor has few human visitors, but tons of wildlife. Pitch your tent at the campground, then go exploring to see mule deer making their way through the pines and flittering aspen trees. To learn more, check out Booth State Scenic Corridor's website.
Booth State Scenic Corridor, Klamath Falls - Lakeview Hwy, Lakeview, OR 97630, USA
John Geisel and his sons died here in 1856, during the Rogue River Indian Wars, and John's wife is buried next to her family. Visit the graves and learn the history of this place, then enjoy a quiet picnic. This is an interesting stop when you're traveling along Highway 101 between Gold Beach and Ophir. To learn more, visit the official website for the Geisel Monument State Heritage Site.
Geisel Monument State Heritage Site, 32448 US-101, Gold Beach, OR 97444, USA
You'll have to endure a bit of a dirt road trek to reach this park, but once you arrive you'll find few visitors competing for the waterfall views. Golden and Silver Falls State Park is located about 24 miles off Highway 101, and you'll travel on a narrow, dirt road before you reach the park. The falls are stunning and the 1.5-mile hike to the top is worth it. This place is definitely one of the best state parks to visit in Oregon. Eager to learn more? Check out Golden and Silver Falls State Park's website.
Golden & Silver Falls State Natural Area, Glenn Creek Rd, Coos Bay, OR 97420, USA
You'll find this little gem along the Pendleton-John Day Highway, and it's about as remote as you can get and still be on a main thoroughfare. If you're looking for peace and quiet, while still being somewhat near civilization, this is it. Check out Ukiah-Dale Forest State Scenic Corridor's website to learn more.
Ukiah-Dale Forest State Scenic Corridor, Ukiah, OR 97880, USA
Many of our least-visited parks seem to be in the southern portion of the state, and Goose Lake State Recreation Area is one of them. You'll find it literally right on the Oregon/California border, on the east side of Goose Lake (pictured above). Enjoy all the amenities of home away from home with 42 electrical sites and hot showers, but revel in nature's beauty when you see the large herd of mule deer who tend to spend a lot of time hanging out in the campground. Visit Goose Lake State Recreation Area's website to learn more.
Goose Lake State Recreation Area, New Pine Creek, OR 97635, USA
This petite park is nestled on the banks of the Grande Ronde River, just west of I-84 near Hilgard. Play in the cool river water, drop a line to catch your dinner, then stay overnight in the small, 20-site campground that's located right on the water. Visit Red Bridge State Wayside's website to learn more.
Red Bridge State Wayside, La Grande, OR 97850, USA
What did you think of our list of the 9 best, lesser-known state parks to visit in Oregon? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your photos from your outdoor adventures on our Oregon Nature Lovers Facebook group for a chance to see your snapshots featured!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
state parks to visit in Oregon
January 12, 2022
Elisa Regulski
What are the best family-friendly hikes in Oregon?
The Natural Arch Hike is definitely one of the best hiking trails in Oregon. At the end of your short and sweet walk, you’ll reach a natural rock arch. The views always amaze little ones, but even adults are moved by its stunning beauty. For another kid-friendly hike, check out the Abiqua Falls Trail. Less than one-mile long, this trail is packed full of astounding beauty. Of course, these aren’t the only fun things to do outside in Oregon! For more adventure, check out our list of the best family-friendly hikes in Oregon.
What are the best beaches in Oregon?
Visiting Hobbit Beach is one of the best things to do outside in Oregon. This gorgeous area is full of seashells and small crabs, and it’s the perfect place to escape to. Best of all, there’s a quick and easy hiking trail nearby that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. For more breathtaking views, visit Lincoln City Beach. Some even say it’s one of the best beaches in the United States!
Oregon In Your Inbox
Thank you! You will receive your first email soon.
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
