Best Mushroom Foraging Spots in Oregon for 2025
Oregon, lovingly known for its mist-laden forests and lush greenery, is an absolute dream for mushroom enthusiasts. Every year, as fall descends and rain blankets the landscape, the region becomes a fertile playground, making it the prime time to go foraging for edible and just plain cool-looking fungi. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned mushroom hunter, here’s an insider’s list of the top 10 mushroom foraging spots in Oregon for 2025.1. Mt. Hood National Forest
Just about an hour’s drive from Portland, the Mt. Hood National Forest offers ample opportunities for mushroom hunting. Look out for matsutake, porcini, and golden chanterelles nestled among the giant conifer trees. Be sure to grab a permit before you forage – they’re available from your local ranger station.2. Tillamook State Forest
Another mushroom spot close to Portland is the Tillamook State Forest. This coastal rainforest is swarming with hedgehog mushrooms and winter chanterelles during fall. The beautiful Wilson River Trail offers a great spot for foraging, but don’t forget to check and respect posted regulations.3. Sisters, Deschutes County
Sisters, a small town in Deschutes County, has some fantastic spots. It’s a little secret that there’s a large population of black morels not far from the iconic Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show location. Mind the private property lines, though – locals appreciate respect for their land!
4. Estacada, Clackamas County
Come mushroom season, head over to Estacada. Known for its abundance of boletes and lobster mushrooms, the region’s network of logging roads provide easy access to prime foraging territory. Be sure to venture around Fearless Brewing Company, a great spot to enjoy a pint after your hunt.5. Marys Peak, Corvallis
Near Corvallis, Marys Peak in the Siuslaw National Forest offers mushroom treasure such as Shaggy Mane and Chicken of the Woods. The trails can be rugged so bring sturdy boots. Remember climbers route is open for mushroom hunting while North Ridge Trail and East Ridge Trail are off limits.6. Siuslaw National Forest, Hebo
Niagara Falls Trail in Hebo, part of beautiful Siuslaw National Forest, is a great place for mushroom hunting. In particular, amateur mycologists have found a good number of king boletes and pacific golden chanterelles here. Pack a picnic, and take the grand 3-mile loop, taking in the serenity as you go along.7. Columbia River Gorge
For those who love a mix of stunning river gorge views and mycology, there’s no better place than the Columbia River Gorge. Hunt for morels in the spring or endure the November chill for a shot at finding rare cauliflower mushrooms. The stunning Multnomah Falls make for a much-deserved relaxation spot post foraging.8. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Florence
A bit unorthodox for foraging, but Oregon Dunes in Florence has its fair share of mushrooms. Look around the forest areas and you can find parasol and fairy ring mushrooms. They often sprout in sandy soils close to shore pines. Remember to stay on designated trails, it helps in preserving the ecology.9. Grants Pass, Josephine County
For those who are curious about native Oregon truffles, Grants Pass in Josephine County is a worthy stop. Truffle forages need a keen nose or a trained dog, but the satisfaction of finding Oregon White or Oregon Black Truffles is worth it. Post hunt, the city’s historic downtown’s packed with lovely eateries to celebrate your truffle haul.10. Williamette National Forest, Sweet Home
Just east of the town Sweet Home, Williamette National Forest sets the scene for a perfect mushroom forage. With Chanterelles, Lion’s Mane, and Matsutake in abundance, it’s an absolute fungal paradise. Just remember, you’ll need a permit for picking edible mushrooms here.And that wraps up the list of ten exceptional mushroom foraging spots in Oregon. So grab your baskets and pocket guides, and tread into the woods. The world of fungi is enchanting, mysterious, and incredibly Oregon. Happy foraging 2025!