Best Mushroom Foraging Spots in Oregon for 2025
Ah, Oregon. Land of lush forests, fragrant rainfall, and of course, some of the most diverse and abundant fungi in the nation. Nestled between coastal dunes and sharp mountain peaks, there’s soil here that’s ripe for mycelium runs. Let’s dive into the heart of Oregon’s foraging scene, one mushroom spot at a time.
1. Saddle Mountain
In the misty green oasis of Saddle Mountain State Park up in Clatsop County, the mushrooms practically leap out of the ground. Morels, boletes, and tasty chanterelles abound here. Remember, tread lightly and watch your step – the mountain’s steep paths deserve respect.2. Mount Hood National Forest
Mount Hood National Forest, just an hour’s drive from urban Portland, is a goldmine for mushroom enthusiasts. Here, conifer trees and high moisture nurture an impressive array of species. A local secret? Visit Trillium Lake – the conditions near the waterfront make it a hotspot for matsutake and hedgehog mushrooms.
3. Tillamook State Forest
Anchor down in Tillamook State Forest’s coastal range, where the damp ecosystem births a variety of edible species. Swing by the Tillamook Forest Center to pick up a map and ask the friendly rangers about current sightings.4. Columbia River Gorge
Along the edges of the iconic Columbia River Gorge you’ll discover maitake and honey mushrooms flourishing in the woodlands. Local advice? Seek out areas with plenty of oak – these trees and maitake have a special bond.5. Silver Falls State Park
Silver Falls State Park, known for breathtaking waterfalls, is also a stellar spot for shrooms. Hericium, turkey tail, and lion’s mane mushrooms are plentiful here. Don’t forget to visit the legendary South Falls – often surrounded by a kaleidoscope of mushrooms during the right season.6. Opal Creek Wilderness
This old growth forest at the Opal Creek Wilderness is home to a plethora of stunning mushroom species. You might find witches’ butter, artist’s conk, or the elusive and coveted Pacific golden chanterelle.7. Willamette National Forest
Willamette National Forest is famous for its morel “burns” in areas recovering from wildfires. You won’t forget the sight of a morel poking through the blackened soil, a powerful symbol of Oregon’s resilience.8. Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest
Occupying both Oregon and California, the Rogue River-Siskiyou is known for porcini and matsutake mushrooms. Explore the trails near the Upper Rogue River. Local tip: Mushrooms love the areas straddling the river and mixed conifer forests.9. Cape Perpetua
Along the Central Oregon Coast, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area hides delicious coastal treasures. You’ll find unique salt-tolerant species like winter chanterelles. Coastal foraging can deliver unexpected treats, especially near the Yachats River where king boletes love to hide.10. Deschutes National Forest
Deschutes National Forest in Central Oregon is perfect for high elevation hunting. Delve into forests around Sisters – a known stronghold for spring morels. Remember though, mushroom permits are required here.That’s a wrap on the ultimate insider’s guide to mushroom foraging in Oregon in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned mycologist or a curious beginner, always remember to respect the forest, leave minimal impact, and of course, ensure correct mushroom identification. Here’s to another fruitful year of foraging in our beautiful Beaver State. Happy hunting, dear Oregonians!