The Remote Town in Oregon We Simply Can’t Get Enough Of

Stumbling upon hidden gems is one of my favorite parts of traveling, and Elkton, Oregon, is about as hidden as it gets. About an hour from Eugene, this charming town is nestled in the state's coastal mountains and has a population of less than 200. History and nature converge here, from an old British fort to pastoral scenes of rolling hills covered in lush greenery. Many people pass through Elkton en route to the beach, but few stop and explore. That's unfortunate, however, because it's one of the best small towns in Oregon if you want to embrace a slower pace of life without feeling bored. Elkton offers so much to see and do, and it will quickly become one of your new favorite destinations when you need an escape.

As you drive into Elkton, you'll feel a bit like you're in the middle of nowhere — but I mean that in a good way. It's one of those towns with two-lane roads and only a few stoplights, and the surrounding mountains make it even more secluded.

Despite being off the beaten path, Elkton is an extremely vibrant town. The locals are friendly as can be, the energy is high, and the town square is full of quaint shops and restaurants where every customer is treated like family.

Make sure to stop by Arlene's Cafe for a slice of homemade pie and a hearty meal like chicken-fried steak. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time and leave with a full stomach and even fuller heart.

Elkton is a nature lover's dream. The beautiful Umpqua River flows right through town, offering endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. It's home to a large smallmouth bass population, so anglers, bring your fishing gear (or get some from REI if you're new to fishing or just need to upgrade). Families love splashing around in the shallow water near the riverbanks. The surrounding Douglas fir forests are teeming with deer and elk that provide an invigorating challenge for hunters.

The Elkton Community Education Center is home to the largest butterfly house and garden in Oregon. A replica of Fort Umpqua, which represented the British claim on the Oregon Territory, is also located at the center and promises to fascinate history buffs. Elkton is also located in a premier wine region, and it boasts several vineyards where you can enjoy a glass while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Have you ever visited Elkton? If so, do you think it's one of the most charming small towns in Oregon? We'd love to hear your thoughts. Give our road trip packing list a read if you need help deciding what to bring. It has all the essentials for every season, so you can go into every trip with confidence.

After exploring this little slice of paradise, take a short drive to the coast to check out Reedsport. It's a small town home to Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, which boasts the largest expanse of coastal dunes in North America.