Best Huckleberry Picking Spots in the Heart of Oregon’s Forests
Delighting in the taste of fresh huckleberries is a savory tradition for us Oregonians. Popping a juicy huck right off the bush or folded into a grandma’s pie is a pleasure closer than most would think. If your summer isn’t complete without getting down and huckleberry-sweet, these are the spots you’ll want to be.
1. Mount Hood National Forest
A beloved spot for huckleberry seekers, Mount Hood National Forest is loaded with bushes, especially along roads where the soil is disturbed. Be sure to venture up higher where it’s cooler, as the huckleberries love it there. And if you get tired, Timberline Lodge is just around the corner for a breather.2. Tongue Mountain
Situated in the Hells Canyon Wilderness, Tongue Mountain offers ample huckleberries hidden amid its weathered rocks. Enjoy breathtaking views while you induldge in some berry scouring. Might want to pack a lunch from Baker City’s Lone Pine Cafe before you head out.
3. Strawberry Lake
Doesn’t Strawberry Lake just sound delicious by name alone? Beyond the east edge of John Day valley in Malheur National Forest, this place is rich with huckleberries. After picking, Strawberry Lake Campground is an excellent spot to rest and sample your harvest.4. High Cascades Ranger District
Here, the aptly named Huckleberry Flats Campground serves patches of huckleberries along its nature trail. Stop by the Ranger Station in Crescent for trail updates. And remember, we Oregonians know that a true huckleberry patch is best left a little messy, so we leave some berries for the wildlife.5. Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest
The highest huckleberry picking season here runs from mid-August to early September. Lots of wild critters amongst these wildberries – you might spot a bear or two, so stay safe!6. Lane Country
Around halfway up the McKenzie River Trail, tucked away in Willamette National Forest, you’re bound to find bushels of huckleberries. Don’t miss the instagrammable Sahalie and Koosah Falls on your way.7. Mt. Jefferson Wilderness
Certain trails, like Hunts Creek and Pamelia Lake, are berry hotspots here. Pack some waterproof boots, it can get a bit marshy. And turn your berry quest into an overnight stay—Pamelia Lake has quaint campsites.8. Huckleberry Mountain
No surprises here! Huckleberry Mountain right in Umpqua National Forest is ripe with huckleberries. The hike up is manageable and the reward? Panoramic views and berry-filled baskets.9. Lost Lake
Over in Mount Hood National Forest, the PCT along Lost Lake is a huckleberry haven. Circle around the lake and your buckets should be full in no time. Plus, Lost Lake Resort’s general store sells buckets in case you forget yours.10. Waldo Lake Wilderness
Along the Jim Weaver Loop Trail, shaded under towering white pines, you’ll find Waldo’s huckleberries waiting. Grab your berries, watch out for mosquitoes, and don’t leave without a dip in the pristine lake.Now, armed with your wild spirit and a berry picking bucket, you’re ready to roam our Oregon forests and return laden with a purple loot. And, ’til the next fruit whim urges you into the wilderness, remember: we are blessed to call this huckleberry haven our home.