The Best Mushroom Foraging Spots in Oregon for 2025
Oregon is often referred to as a mycologist’s paradise. It’s a place where the verdant forests overhead are rivaled only by the rich, fungally fertile ground underfoot. Each year, Oregon reveals an abundant offering of delectable mushrooms. That said, here’s the local take on the 10 best mushroom foraging spots to visit in this beautiful state in 2025.
1. Tillamook State Forest
Driving through the twisting roads of the Coast Range lands you in the lush greenery of Tillamook State Forest. This area is excellent for foraging chants and the coveted Boletus edulis. Remember to follow the State Forest mushroom regulations diligently – only take what you need and mostly off the ground.2. Mount Hood National Forest
Home to an array of fungi, Mount Hood National Forest boosts your foraging basket with varieties of chanterelles and matsutake mushrooms. While foraging, don’t miss to take a break at the Ripplebrook store for a hot drink and chat with other mycophiles.
3. Siuslaw National Forest
Near the towns of Florence and Reedsport, the damp environs of Siuslaw National Forest produce excellent matsutake, hedgehogs, and king boletes. Avoid foraging directly adjacent to roads and always be aware of the tide times while near Waldport and Yachats.4. Zigzag Ranger District
This part of Clackamas County near Rhododendron is a favorite among Portlanders. After a productive day of foraging for lobsters or morels, you can reward yourself with a meal at the Skyway Bar and Grill, known for its local mushroom-infused dishes.5. Detroit Lake State Park
The woods around Detroit Lake State Park in Linn County, particularly near Breitenbush Hot Springs area, are best known for prized golden chanterelles and morels. Pack a good pair of boots, as the understory can be quite damp.6. Sweet Creek trail, Mapleton
Walk along Sweet Creek trail near Mapleton for a scenic and fruitful foraging adventure. This spot is famed for its wealth of candy cap mushrooms that give off a sweet, heady aroma. It’s like Mother Nature’s dessert table!7. Deschutes National Forest
If you find yourself near Bend, Deschutes National Forest’s offerings of porcini and coral mushrooms shouldn’t be overlooked. Around the Lava River Cave area, keep an eye out for puffball mushrooms too.8. Cathedral Hills Park, Grants Pass
A favorite among locals in Grants Pass, the Cathedral Hills Park yields a good crop of chanterelles and the odd morel. Remember, it’s always more fruitful after a good rain, so keep an eye on the forecast!9. Trillium Lake
Near to Government Camp, Trillium Lake area is another great spot to look for fragrant matsutake and chanterelles. Don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful view of Mount Hood reflecting in the lake — it’s infamously stunning!10. Opal Creek Wilderness
Last but by no means least, the Opal Creek Wilderness (east of Salem in Marion County) is rich with chanterelles and humongous lobster mushrooms. Note that some parts can be a bit tricky to navigate, so consider picking up a local hiking map from Salem Summit Company.Foraging mushrooms can be a meditative, rewarding experience when done right. Be sure to respect the beautiful land that Oregon generously shares with us. Remember that a good mushroom forager is a responsible forager – check local regulations, only pick what you will use, and, of course, leave nature as you find it – or even better. Good luck, and happy foraging in 2025, fellow mushroom seekers. This is Oregon, where every mushroom hunt is an adventure!