Top Outdoor Destinations to Explore in Oregon

Oregon offers incredible scenery, from sandy Pacific beaches to rugged mountains and gorgeous ancient forests. Below, we provide a quick look at some of the top outdoor destinations in Oregon. 

Crater Lake National Park, located in the Cascade Mountains, is centered around Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the U.S. This rain-and-snow-fed lake, with a stunning mountainous backdrop, is one of the purest lakes on the planet. Visitors enjoy snowy treks in the winter and gorgeous warm hikes in the summer and spring. 

Silver Falls State Park is the largest state park in Oregon, stretching over 9,000 acres and offering more than 24 miles of walking trails. The Trail of Ten Falls, which passes through thickly forested landscapes and by rushing waterfalls, is the park’s highlight. As a seven-mile loop, walking this trail could take some time, but the spectacular waterfalls make the challenge worthwhile.

Oregon Caves National Monument is a protected area that comprises more than 4,550 acres in the Siskiyou Mountains. Many go to this location, nestled within the picturesque, wooded mountains, to see its incredible marble caves. Taking a tour to explore the unique geological formations and caverns in this winding cave network is an ideal way to get the most out of a visit.  

Cannon Beach is a four-mile beach bordered by tall, picturesque cliffs. Visitors like to go to Haystack Rock, a huge 235-foot-tall rock that emerges from the water by the shore. As a nesting ground for tufted puffins and with surrounding tide pools home to rare aquatic creatures, the rock is a National Wildlife Refuge. 

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area encompasses more than 31,000 acres within Siuslaw National Forest, with tall sand dunes, thick forests, and ocean views. The dunes are a popular destination for off-road vehicles, and it is a unique area to hike and explore. 

Smith Rock State Park spotlights Oregon’s diverse high desert environment. It has rushing rivers, deep canyons, trails for hiking and biking, campgrounds, day-use areas, and unique wildlife, such as beavers, falcons, and otters. Climbers frequent the park to experience some of its several thousand well-known climbing routes, including some bolted climbing routes. 

Port Orford Heads State Park is famous for its incredible views, best experienced from its cliffs overlooking coves and turquoise waters. It also has a historical site: the Port Orford Lifeboat Station. This compound was utilized by the Coast Guard before and during World War II, and it is now a museum that presents and elaborates upon its history. The park is a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching, and three main trails leading to historical sites wind throughout the beautiful settings.