The Best Oregon State Parks for Tent Camping: A Local’s Top Picks
Oregon is a treasure trove of natural gems, from its sandy coastlines and rugged mountains to lush forests and high desert sweeping landscapes. As locals who couldn’t love our state more, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten gems for tent camping, where starry nights, smoke-kissed s’mores, and waking up to the sounds of nature await you.
1. Silver Falls State Park
Home to no less than ten waterfalls, this “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system offers lush forest trails for days. The park’s namesake, Silver Falls, cascades majestically and you can even walk behind it for a unique view. Tip: Reserve your camping spot early, especially for summer weekends, since they can go quickly.2. Beverly Beach State Park
Ideal for beach lovers, Beverly Beach State Park offers easy beach access right from your tent. Warmer months draw plentiful sandcastle architects, while winter storms provide dramatic wave watching. The nearby Yaquina Head Lighthouse adds charm and there’s a fantastic local fish joint – South Beach Fish Market, just a short drive away.
3. Fort Stevens State Park
Rich in history and known for its shipwreck, the Peter Iredale, Fort Stevens combines beach, forest, and freshwater lake camping, providing a diverse experience. Check out the old fort, sign up for a ranger-led kayak tour, or maybe just enjoy the sunset over the Pacific.4. Tumalo State Park
Nestled in the shadow of the Three Sisters mountains and along the Deschutes River, Tumalo offers plenty of outdoor activities. Rafting down the river in the heat of summer is a local favorite. Make sure to enjoy a Cascade Lakes Brewing Company beer, brewed right in Bend.5. Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock is a paradise for climbers and hikers. Offering breathtaking views of the Crooked River and towering basalt cliffs, this park caters to adventurers. If you dare, follow Misery Ridge trail up and take in the panoramic views.6. Crater Lake National Park
An iconic Oregon landmark, and the deepest lake in the US, tent camping here provides unmatched star gazing, and beautiful views of the blue lake. Mazama Campground offers sites tucked in the Ponderosa pines, just a bike ride away from the lake itself.7. Wallowa Lake State Park
Nestled at the base of the Wallowa Mountains, the “Alps of Oregon,” this park has an abundance of wildlife, pristine waters, and hiking trails. Don’t forget to take a ride on the Wallowa Lake Tramway for a stunning view of the valley.8. Cape Blanco State Park
The westernmost tip in Oregon, Cape Blanco offers solitude and stunning Pacific views. Test your mettle against the often-windy weather, then reward yourself with a cozy evening around the fire. Remember to explore the lighthouse, offering a window into Oregon’s maritime history.9. Cottonwood Canyon State Park
Being Oregon’s second largest state park, Cottonwood Canyon offers wide-open spaces and peaceful solitude on the eastern bank of the John Day River. This is prime territory for both mountain biking and fishing, just be prepared for no running water at the campsite!10. Valley of the Rogue State Park
A perfect basecamp for exploring the Rogue Valley, this park has fantastic access to nearby historical towns like Jacksonville and Ashland. Makes sure to visit the famous Rogue Creamery for some stellar cheeses!Happily worn out after a day of hiking, or settling in after a cup of locally brewed coffee beside the campfire, there truly is a special kind of magic found when camping in these places. It stirs in the scent of the pines, rides on the cool ocean breeze, and rests beneath the bright Oregon stars.