The Best Huckleberry Picking Spots in Oregon’s Lush Forests
Welcome to Oregon, a true paradise for huckleberry foragers! As anyone fortunate enough to call this blissful state home knows, late summer in Oregon means it’s huckleberry season. The forests transform into a living buffet, dotted with the rich blues and purples of wild huckleberries just waiting to be picked. But as all seasoned foragers know, a favorite spot is a treasure to be shared. Here’s a knowledgeable local’s shortlist of the top-notch huckleberry picking spots in Oregon!
1. Mount Hood
Mount Hood is a huckleberry hot spot, boasting an impressive pick-your-own trail stretching from Government Camp to Zigzag. In some years, you can find huckleberries as low as 2,000 feet! Make sure to wear sturdy footwear and be bear-aware, as our furry friends are also fans of these tasty berries.2. Olallie Scenic Area
Olallie Scenic Area, located north of Mount Jefferson, has plentiful huckleberry patches. You can make a trip out of it and stay at the Olallie Lake Resort for convenience. Remember to bring a canister for your berries and a good sense of direction or a GPS!
3. Clackamas River Basin
Journey down the roads less traveled in the Clackamas River Basin. The plentiful plants around Fish Creek and Roaring River often yield a good harvest. Mind the poison oak and be respectful of the ecosystem.4. Santiam Pass
Santiam Pass, near the HooDoo Ski Area, isn’t as crowded as some spots, offering a tranquil berry picking experience. Timing is essential here, as berries ripen throughout August and early September.5. Quartzville Creek Scenic Byway
Drive along the Quartzville Creek Scenic Byway and you’ll find plenty of huckleberries near Green Peter Reservoir. Berries here usually ripen around mid to late August. It’s a favorite for campers, with Greens Bridge Campground providing a great base.6. Mount Pisgah Arboretum
While not a forest, Mount Pisgah Arboretum in Eugene’s Buford Park offers an abundance of huckleberry bushes. It’s a beautiful, serene spot for a family outing.7. Willamette National Forest
Willamette National Forest offers bountiful huckleberry picking options. Unfortunately, regular picking draws massive crowds. Try venturing off the beaten path and you might get lucky.8. Saddle Mountain
Navigate the challenging but rewarding Saddle Mountain trail, and a colorful harvest of wild huckleberries along the upper reaches is your reward. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and pack a picnic to enjoy post-harvest!9. McKenzie River Trail
Along the McKenzie River Trail, wild huckleberries grow near hearty fir trees – a sight representing Oregon’s pristine beauty. The trail’s bounty tends to peak around late August, so time your visit accordingly!10. Umpqua National Forest
Drive up to higher elevations in Umpqua National Forest for a delightfully cool huckleberry picking experience. Bring a day pack with water, a lunch, and containers for your berries. Don’t forget the sunscreen!And there you have it, ten fantastic places in Oregon to indulge in one of summer’s simplest pleasures. Remember, pick responsibly and leave no trace. Now fill your baskets with these juicy delights, get your fingers dyed a satisfactory purple, and enjoy the berries as you traverse the breathtaking landscapes of Oregon. Happy huckleberry hunting, folks!