Exploring the Wild: Best Mushroom Foraging Spots in Oregon for 2025
Oregon, with its rain-soaked soil and forested landscapes, is a mycologist’s dream. Amidst the splendor of towering Doug firs and mossy undergrowth, many wonderful mushrooms are just waiting to be discovered. So gather your baskets, don your rain boots, and let’s go on a journey to the best spots to forage for mushrooms in Oregon, 2025.
1. Saddle Mountain State Natural Area
Saddle Mountain, in the wondrous North Coast Range, is a treasure trove of fungal diversity. In the early autumn months, you can find delicious chanterelles in the understory areas. It’s a journey, as you’ll skirt around the sweeping trails that navigate the mountain, but the reward is worth the effort. Remember to acquire a harvesting permit—it’s a simple process and it helps sustain the environment.2. East Fork Cultus Creek, Mt. Hood National Forest
This is a lovely mushroom hunting ground near the shores of Cultus Creek. Especially pleasant in late fall, you can discover a variety of boletes and matsutake, favored by many for their distinct flavors. Visit the local ranger station for advice on good picking areas before starting.
3. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, Siuslaw National Forest
Expect to find bursts of color, not just from the ocean views, but also from the mushrooms. Candy caps and hedgehogs make their appearance near the coastal trails. Use a good mushroom guide or a reliable app to help identify your finds and ensure safe picking.4. Tillamook State Forest
Located near Highway 6, this forest is abundant with chantrelles, particularly near Wilson River. Come in the early hours when the morning mist is lifting, and you’ll find yourself immersed in an enchanting locale. Pack a thermos of Stumptown coffee to enjoy while you forage.5. Mount Pisgah Arboretum, Eugene
Filled with network of trails, the mushroom habitat is diverse here. Offering morels in the spring and various other species all year-round, it’s a favorite among local mushroom pickers. Be vigilant about staying on the trails to preserve the site’s natural beauty.6. Silver Falls State Park
This beautiful park boasts rushing waterfalls, but it’s also a hotspot for mushroom hunters. You can find myrtle mushrooms mostly around old-growth trees and creek beds. Don’t forget to stop by the South Falls Lodge for some local refreshments after a satisfying hunt.7. Zigzag Ranger District, Mt. Hood
Within this terrain, disciplines flock to gather corals and hedgehogs. Despite its popularity, the Zigzag Ranger District maintains a feeling of solitude and tranquility. Attend a meeting of the Oregon Mycological Society beforehand to pick up useful foraging tips.8. Crater Lake National Park
Here you’ll find more than just Oregon’s famous deep-blue lake. Hunt for morels near Mazama Campground during springtime along the Annie Creek trail. Do note that foraging in National Parks requires permits, so arrange them beforehand.9. Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest
Venture to this South Oregon gem and you’ll find a broad range of mushrooms, including king boletes and slippery jacks. Be sure to check with the local ranger’s office for up-to-date information on mushroom harvesting areas.10. Mt. Hood National Forest, Near Bear Springs
Particularly loved for its generous spread of matsutake mushrooms, this area in Mt. Hood National Forest is a forager’s delight. Take the Bear Springs exit off of Highway 26 for easy access. Remember to bring a mushroom permit for a bountiful collect.Looking for a flavorful adventure? Oregon’s forests are waiting. Whether you’re a seasoned forager or new to the world of mushroom hunting, these amazing spots offer some truly unforgettable experiences. Remember to respect nature’s generosity, pick sustainably, and enjoy every moment of your time in our extraordinary Oregon wilderness.