The Best Oregon State Parks for Unforgettable Tent Camping
Nestled with breathtaking landscapes, rustic charm, and oodles of beauty, Oregon truly is a camper’s paradise. With countless state parks scattered throughout its diverse terrain, there’s a perfect Oregonian spot waiting for everyone. But which are the absolute cream of the crop for tent camping?1. Silver Falls State Park
Located near Silverton, where the state’s largest waterfall – the South Falls – cascades down 177 feet, Silver Falls State Park offers a captivating camping experience. Here, follow the Trail of Ten Falls and be prepared to fall in love with each one! The park offers tent campsites, many of which are shaded and are just a walk away from a hot shower.2. Cape Lookout State Park
Nestled on a sand spit between Netarts Bay and the mighty Pacific Ocean, Cape Lookout State Park is the go-to spot for the quintessential Oregon coast camping. Expect stunning views and serenades by sea lions. When the sun goes down, spot the Cape Meares Lighthouse with a trusty pair of binoculars from your tent!##3. Crater Lake National Park Crater Lake National Park doesn’t just boast the deepest lake in the U.S., it also offers pristine camping spots like Mazama Campground. The celestial beauty that fills the sky at night here is unrivaled! Be sure to save a day for a thrilling hike to the Cleetwood Cove Trail for an awe-inspiring view of the lake.
4. Smith Rock State Park
Showcasing dramatic cliffs, winding river canyons, and the iconic Misery Ridge trail, Smith Rock State Park near Terrebonne is all about breath-catching sights. For tent campers, the Bivouac area is the place to be. Pro tip: bring your climbing gear, this park is also Oregon’s rock climbing Mecca!##5. Valley of the Rogue State Park A stone’s throw from the historic town of Grants Pass, Valley of the Rogue State Park is a riverfront gem. Positioned right along the Rogue River, this paradise offers open, grassy sites perfect for tent camping. If you’re into fishing, this park’s Salmon and Steelhead runs are the stuff of local legend.
6. Wallowa Lake State Park
Wallowa Lake State Park, snuggled at the foot of the Wallowa Mountains, is a slice of alpine heaven in northeast Oregon. Often likened to the Swiss Alps, the park offers magnificent mountain views from its tent-friendly campsites. Bring your hiking shoes and prepare your senses for the majestic Eagle Cap Wilderness.7. Oswald West State Park
Oswald West, offering a serene coastal forest setting near Manzanita, is a tent camper’s dream. Tucked between Cape Falcon to the north and Neahkahnie Mountain to the south, you’re poised for great hiking opportunities. Camp here if you love the sound of surf as a lullaby.8. Cottonwood Canyon State Park
Oregon’s second-largest state park, Cottonwood Canyon near Wasco, offers a golden, high desert ambiance unique to the state. Pack your stargazing kit as the night sky here is simply mesmerizing. Remember, the park operates on a ‘Pack it in, Pack it out’ basis, so leave no trace!9. Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens in Warrenton is a trove of history, nature, and adventure. Offering one of Oregon’s largest campgrounds, the park beautifully blends dense forest camping with the lure of nearby beaches. Don’t miss visiting the shipwreck of Peter Iredale at sunset – a sight to remember!##10. Bullards Beach State Park In the coastal town of Bandon, Bullards Beach State Park gazes across the Coquille River. Offering more than 100 tent sites amid wind-sculpted shore pines, it’s an idyllic destination. Don’t forget to take your kite – the winds at Bandon are ripe for kite-flying!
So there you have it – an insider’s guide to the Oregon’s best state parks for tent camping. But remember, the real joy is in the journey, the corners uncovered, the trails hiked, and the memories made. Just step out there, breathe in that Oregon air, and let the adventure begin.