Hidden Gems: The Best Oregon State Parks for Tent Camping
Sometimes, there’s no better way to fully appreciate the vibrant colors, the clean Oregon air, the rugged Pacific cliffs, the towering pine forests, and the whispering deciduous trees than to curl up in a tent under the stars. Let’s launch into our journey of Oregon State Parks sure to provide unparalleled views, outdoor adventures, and the ultimate camping experience.
1. Silver Falls State Park
Just outside Salem, we find Silver Falls State Park, aka the “crown jewel” of our Oregon State Parks, offering stunning waterfalls, 9,000+ acres of forested beauty, and generous campsites to pitch a tent. The park boasts the popular Trail of Ten Falls, a must for those with a love of waterfalls. The tucked-away location guarantees a serene camping experience.2. Fort Stevens State Park
On the northernmost tip of the Oregon Coast, Fort Stevens State Park near Astoria is the king of beach camping. From Oregon’s storied past with the shipwreck of Peter Iredale to a freshwater lake filled with fish, Endicott’s Fort posts, and an extensive bike trail, this park is a coastal camping paradise. Don’t forget a beach blanket for watching fiery sunsets over the Pacific.
3. Cape Lookout State Park
Midway down the coast near Tillamook, Cape Lookout State Park is a coastal camping dream with beachside campsites. Added perks are the three-mile trail that follows the cape’s edge, whale-watching points, and close proximity to the Tillamook Cheese Factory, where you can treat yourself to an ice cream after exploring.4. Tumalo State Park
Near Bend, Tumalo State Park is a high desert gem situated on the Deschutes River. Incredible hikes, like the Smith Rock’s Misery Ridge, are just down the road. Local tip: After a long day exploring, grab a fresh pint from the nearby Deschutes Brewery to enjoy back at the campsite.5. Wallowa Lake State Park
Positioned next to the stunning Wallowa Lake and mountains, it’s got prize-winning foothill vistas of the northern Blue Mountains. Heaven for nature lovers looking for that Instagram-worthy sunset.6. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Can’t talk about tent camping without mentioning a park where you can sleep under the redwoods. Home to seven percent of all the old-growth redwoods left in the world! Explore the Stout Grove and take a scenic drive down Howland Hill Road.7. Valley of the Rogue State Park
A perfect base camp for exploring Crater Lake and the Rogue River Valley. Orchards, vineyards, and rafting adventures are at your fingertips. Swing by Rogue Creamery for some world-class blue cheese on your way there.8. Harris Beach State Park
Located on the coastline near Brookings, it’s all about rocky seaside landscapes, captivating tidal pools, and vibrant sunsets from your beachside campsite. The nearby Chetco Brewing Company is great for a taste of Oregon’s craft beers.9. Beverley Beach State Park
A forest-sheltered family campground stretched along miles of sandy beach. Close to Newport’s charming waterfront scene with fresh seafood at Local Ocean Seafoods, a favorite among locals.10. Cottonwood Canyon State Park
In the eastern rain shadow, Cottonwood Canyon is Oregon’s second largest state park encompassing desert landscapes across the John Day River. It’s a wilderness experience with rustic and primitive campsites.Oregon parks are as diverse and appealing as the state itself, with awe-inspiring views, riveting trails, and unforgettable adventures at every campground. These parks retain the raw beauty of Oregon, the nostalgia of sparkling campfires, the aroma of marshmallow, and chocolate sandwiched between two graham crackers. They’re waiting for you. It’s time to dust off your tent, pull out your hiking boots, and make some memories under the Oregon stars.