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)
Lake Owyhee State Park, 1298 Owyhee Lake Rd, Adrian, OR 97901, USA
Trip Advisor/Louis R
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)
Bullards Beach State Park, Bandon, OR 97411, USA
Flickr/Jasperdo
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)
Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint, US-97, Terrebonne, OR 97760, USA
Trip Advisor/mg44berlin
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)
State Recreation Road, State Recreation Rd, Oregon, USA
Trip Advisor/Armin W
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.

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5. Memaloose State Park (Mosier)
Memaloose State Park, Mosier, OR 97040, USA
Flickr/Laura Gilmore
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)
Carl G. Washburne State Park, Oregon 97439, USA
Trip Advisor/Rob E
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)
Starvation Creek State Park, Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, Cascade Locks, OR 97014, USA
Flickr/John Clare
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)
William M. Tugman State Park, Reedsport, OR 97467, USA
Flickr/Rick Obst
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)
Rooster Rock State Park Trail, Oregon 97019, USA
Flickr/Sarah McDevitt Follow
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.

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state parks to visit in Oregon

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Which state parks should I visit in Oregon?

There are so many splendid state parks to visit in Oregon, it can often feel difficult to decide where to go first. When in doubt, we recommend driving to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park in Reedsport. This place has it all: a glistening lake, sand dunes, and a historic lighthouse. It’s perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike! If you want to venture off the beaten path and explore more of our state’s amazing beauty, we’ve got you covered! These 12 lesser-known state parks in Oregon don’t see as many visitors as our famous attractions, but they’re absolutely worth the trip.

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