Oregon’s Most Haunted Locations: A Spooky 2025 Tour

Ah, Oregon, where the lush greens of the wilderness blend with the vibrant atmosphere of our cities. Yet beneath the surface, a chanterelle’s worth of ghost stories are waiting to be uncovered. Grab your flannel, wool socks, and a steaming cup of locally brewed joe, because we’re about to dive into Oregon’s most bone-chilling places.

1. Heceta Head Lighthouse

Perched high on the bluffs of scenic Florence, the Heceta Head Lighthouse is not only a historic gem but a famed spectral hotspot. Rumor has it, a friendly ghost named Rue used to be the lighthouse keeper’s wife. If you’re brave enough, book a night’s stay in the ethereal bed and breakfast, and you might just catch Rue wandering the halls.

2. Hot Lake Hotel

What’s creepier than a haunted hospital? One positioned eerily near La Grande. The Hot Lake Hotel, once a therapeutic hot spring resort, collapsed into a dilapidated structure after decades of abandonment. Now restored, visitors say paranormal activity is high—claiming to hear unnerving whispers and other strange occurrences.

3. Old Portland Underground, “Shanghai Tunnels”

A walk through downtown Portland’s Shanghai Tunnels offers quite the chilling tale. These tunnels were a passage for unsuspected men to be “Shanghaied” and sold to ship captains in the 19th century. In Chinatown specifically, folks have reported feeling ghostly presences, likely the phantasmal remains of Portland’s darker history.

4. Lafayette Pioneer Cemetery

Nestled in Yamhill County’s cozy Lafayette, the pioneer cemetery holds both historic and spectral significance. Locals insist a disgruntled woman, unjustly sentenced to death for witchcraft, still haunts these grounds, cursing the town. A Twilight-esque, rainy afternoon visit gives visitors the fullest Oregon experience (just remember your rain gear!)

5. Oregon Vortex

Tales of the Oregon Vortex in Gold Hill have been told for generations. This roadside attraction’s claim to fame? Unusual phenomena defying the laws of physics, like objects rolling uphill. Some believe it’s got something to do with the supernaturally charged energies so common at ancient sacred sites.

6. Lithia Park, Ashland

Contrary to its seemingly serene setting, Ashland’s Lithia Park belies an eerie secret. Late-night wanderers claim to see apparitions near the park’s duck pond. Historians suspect these may be the spirits of Ashland’s pioneers, still drawn to the spot that was once a hub of healing from Lithia’s natural mineral waters.

7. Malheur Butte

Overlooking the small town of Ontario, the Malheur Butte, an extinct volcanic vent, carries a long history of witch and demon conjuration. Late at night, brave souls claim eerie figures can be seen performing rituals under the moonlight. Pro tip: a scoop of Ontario’s tastiest ice cream from Jolts & Juice can help dull the spooks.

8. Wilsonville Memorial Park

Formerly the site of a Native American village, Wilsonville Memorial Park is said to be watched over by a phantom tribal chief. Local runners and dog-walkers claim to have seen the specter, often at dawn or twilight. For the faint-hearted, the park also boasts unbeatable cherry blossom views every spring – a perfect, less-creepy alternative.

9. Oregon State Hospital

Known for being the filming location of “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”, Oregon State Hospital in Salem is infamous for its terrifying tales of patient abuse and deaths. Though the building’s old wing was demolished, residual paranormal activity has been reported by visitors taking tours through its haunting Museum of Mental Health.

10. Pittock Mansion

Overlooking downtown Portland from the West Hills, Pittock Mansion’s beautiful architecture masks a house filled with specters. Tales circulate of moving portraits and phantom music – supposedly the lingering Pittock family. Visit near Christmas, though – the mansion’s annual holiday decorations might just make the ghosts feel a bit more festive.

So, there you have it, folks. Pack your bravery, a healthy sense of curiosity, and perhaps a friend (because nobody said ghost hunting need be a solitary experience), and get ready to explore Oregon’s fascinating history – a homage to those who came before, and proof that sometimes, they don’t quite leave. Stay safe and enjoy our extraordinary Beaver State – through rain, shine, and ghost story.