Oregon’s Most Haunted Locations: A Spooky 2025 Tour
Oregon: Land of the Beaver, known for its lush wilderness, mighty rivers, volcanic peaks, and spirited cities. But once the sun dips below the horizon, the state boasts an entirely different kind of appeal – the uncanny, ethereal, sometimes downright scary. These are the 10 most haunted locations in Oregon, as eerily alluring after a lifetime in the Beaver State as they are for first-time visitors.
1. Oregon State Hospital, Salem
Salem’s old Oregon State Hospital, made infamous by the film “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” is said to be haunted by former patients who suffered within its walls. For the brave-hearted, the museum offers guided tours where many have experienced inexplicable cold spots and odd shadows. Those squeamish about old medical equipment, beware – the museum houses a vast collection.2. Battery Russell, Fort Stevens State Park
The historic Battery Russell at Fort Stevens State Park in Warrenton is said to be haunted by a soldier named Gregory, who perished there during a WWII explosion. Late-night visitors have reported hearing his phantom footsteps on the stairwells. Park hours extend to midnight, just remember your flashlight and stick to the designated paths.
3. Hot Lake Hotel, La Grande
The century-old Hot Lake Hotel in La Grande has had many incarnations – a resort, a hospital, an asylum. These days, it’s a bed and breakfast where guest reports of spectral sightings are not uncommon. Think twice before interacting with the hotel’s antique piano; the ghostly former nurse is known to play it.4. McMenamins Edgefield, Troutdale
McMenamins Edgefield has tales of ghost sightings well recorded, mostly involving a mysterious woman dressed in white. Try one of their locally brewed spirits at the bar, and if you’re lucky- or unlucky, as the case may be- you might just have a ghostly encounter yourself.5. The Geiser Grand Hotel, Baker City
Baker City’s regal Geiser Grand Hotel is a favorite spot for specters, particularly the ‘Lady in Blue’ who haunts the mezzanine. Planning a visit? Book the main suite and you might find this ethereal presence scrutinizing you from the mirror.6. Pittock Mansion, Portland
Portland’s Pittock Mansion has long been home to rumors of resounding footsteps and floating apparitions. The ghosts of original owners Henry and Georgiana Pittock are the usual suspects. Visit at your own risk, especially on foggy afternoons when some say the spirits are more active.7. Cathedral Park, Portland
Named after its cathedral-like arches, the park itself is perfect for serene picnics, but the paranormal rumors mostly circle around the St. Johns Bridge. Locals tend to avoid the area past twilight as it transforms into a hotspot for ghostly apparitions.8. The Heceta Head Lighthouse, Florence
This scenic lighthouse in Florence doubles as a bed and breakfast and triples as home to the infamous ghost, Rue. Expect to smell fresh baking bread out of nowhere–a favorite pastime of Rue. Don’t forget to retrieve a free lighthouse tour pass at the gift shop.9. Oregon Vortex, Gold Hill
Home to a host of paranormal activities, the Oregon Vortex in Gold Hill is known for its curious gravity-defying effects. Bring your level when you visit – you’re in for some physics-breaking spectacles, just ignore any shadow figures lurking around the vortex.10. Witch’s Castle, Forest Park, Portland
Forest Park’s abandoned stone structure, referred to as the Witch’s Castle, is rife with whispers of apparitions and eerie sounds. It makes for a chilling end to a long hike along the Wildwood Trial. Just remember, if you hear your name called out from the forest, it’s best not to answer.So there you have it, the most haunted Oregon has to offer. Whether you’re a lifelong local or just passing through in search of a scare, remember: a good ghost tale is best shared with friends, under a warm Oregon night sky by a crackling fire. Stay spooky, Oregon.