Lakeside camping in Oregon with wildlife watching
With quiet beaches, vibrant cities, and massive expanses of forest, Oregon has something for everyone.
96% (4465 reviews)
- Oregon
96% (4465 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Oregon
Available this weekend
Under $50
12 top lakeside campgrounds in Oregon with wildlife watching
96%
(789)
Umpqua's Last Resort
33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Idleyld Park, OR
Umpqua’s Last Resort is nestled along the North Umpqua River in the Umpqua National Forest. This region of the Oregon Cascade Mountains is commonly referred to as “Oregon’s Emerald-Jewel Gateway” to Crater Lake National Park. Spectacular marble river views, volcanic formations, thundering waters, and towering firs are just the beginning… the North Umpqua River is World Class!
Settled in the community of Dry Creek, 27-miles east of Idleyld Park [Idle-wild Park] on the North Umpqua River, Umpqua's Last Resort hosts fifteen 50/30/20amp Full Hook-up RV Sites, Glamping Tents, Camper Cabins, a Tiny Home, RV Experiences, heated shower house & restrooms, mountain Wi-Fi, access to the North Umpqua River & Dry Creek.
Umpqua’s Last Resort is a privately owned recreational vehicle park & campground located on exclusive private-property deep in the heart of the Umpqua National Forest. As a proud equal opportunity recreation provider we thank you for your interest.
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$35
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96%
(468)
Zigzag Mountain Farm
6 sites · Tents50 acres · Rhododendron, OR
~ Please note: August 23-25 is our Irish Music weekend. We allow jamming 24 hours a day and quiet hours won't be enforced. ~
Located on Mount Hood about an hour from Portland, Zigzag Mountain Farm is home to an organic garden, old homestead, house, yurts, and barn. 50 acres of open meadows and forest, bordering thousands of acres of national forest.
The farm is home to an organic garden, campfire circle, picnic area, a city bus with a campers' kitchen, outdoor seating area with BBQ, kids play structure and hiking trails.
The cabin on the property was built by the original homesteaders. Britta and Jim purchased the property in 2009. It had been vacant for a number of years. Giant slash piles scattered the land from previous logging.
The house and cabin were not livable and needed major renovations. In 2019 we purchased and brought in a city bus and converted it to a campers kitchen.
A year-round creek flows through the property and 3 major rivers are nearby. The Zigzag Mountain Lookout Trail leaves from the property. The property was homesteaded in the late 1800's. E. Mountain Drive was the wagon train trail into Portland, known as the Barlow Trail.
Zigzag
Mountain farm offers the perfect escape from the city.
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$30
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99%
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Powder Creek Campground
16 sites · RVs, Tents362 acres · Beaver, OR
Powder Creek Ranch is 362 acres, nestled into a valley, surrounded by forest in the Oregon Coast Range. The campground is in a secluded meadow next to Powder Creek, a pristine year round stream, perfect for wading and playing in. If you're looking to unplug and escape from the chaos of city life, we are all about peace and quiet and connecting with nature.
Each of our 13 large campsites offers access to the creek, a picnic table and campfire ring. All sites accommodate RVs as well as tent camping.
One of the campsites is next to the beaver pond, where you're likely to see a variety of wildlife.
Our property also has 1/2 mile of Nestucca River frontage where you can swim or fish, whichever floats your boat.
Niagara Creek/Pheasant Creek falls is a nearby hiking trail and there are roads as well as deer and elk trails to explore all over the ranch. If you feel like venturing further, the beach is 23 miles away in Pacific City.
We also offer pasture raised pork for sale. A variety of sausages (breakfast, chorizo, Italian, Bratwurst and French Garlic links) and pork chops.
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$45
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100%
(309)
Lane Creek Reserve
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Central Point, OR
This is an original Oregon trail homestead with a story. A farm hand married the daughter and took over on the 640 acre ranch. Our 50 acres is certified organic diverse habitat,gardens, pastures and animals of all kinds.
You can help with chores if you like. We encourage you to get your hands dirty and learn about our farming methods.
We are family owned and operated and require all campers to be checked in before dark as we work with the sun and sleep with the moon.
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$33.25
/ night
99%
(893)
Experience Heaven
11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents157 acres · La Pine, OR
8 campsites and 2 original Mongolian Gers.
The season for the camp sites is from June 1st to October 15 and the Gers are all 12 months. The Hipcamp is on the South Shore of East Lake
Pets allowed, toilets on site, campfires permitted when burn ban is not in place.
This being the 5th year, things are excellent and I certainly don't have any issues to deal with.
If you aren't capable of practicing the 5 P's, then you need to book somewhere else. Proper Preperation Prevents Poor Performance.
If you can't get here and have your camp set up by 8:00PM, showing respect to the other Hipcampers that are already set up and enjoying the PEACE AND QUIET, then you need to book somewhere else or don't come until the following morning.
No driving down to the campsites/the lake after 8::00PM. Period. Communicate with me. If you leave Portland at 5:00 PM with the intention of spending the night in Heaven then you need to alter your plans.
No more than 4 adults at each campsite.
I am not to the point yet of saying no big dogs. Talk to me if you think your "big dog" might not fit in. It is a given they willl need to be on a tethered throughout your time in Heaven. Take them for walks along the lake, not having them run thru everyone elses camp sites. No Yappers, no barking dogs, no yippers, no pain in the butts.
Why would you drive by 46 grocery stores and forget to bring ice?
No loud music. I have changed quiet time to 9:00 PM. You need to listen to the chaos/stressful music I suggest you start a band or become a DJ.
What I want folks to get out of being here, whether they are camping or staying in the Gers is just to “take a break”.
Relax, appreciate, assess and just listen.
I hope what you hear is the sound of life and of course all the Angels that make up this special piece of Heaven.
The chipmunks, the squirrels, all the different birds, the eagles, the osprey, the fish jumping, the deer roaming, the timber martins running thru the trees, the snowshoe rabbits and the occasional black bear.
Then there is the silence.
The best part of “Heaven”.
So, while you are here, take a deep breath, close your eyes at the appropriate moment and ask yourself, am I on the right path?
Is what I am doing fulfilling me?
Am I showing my family and friends how much I love them?
Do I really need all that crap I got?
Where do I go from here?
My intention was for each one you to not just go camping, or to stay in a Mongolian Ger but to have an “Experience” that just might lead you to a more fulfilling and happier life.
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$50
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97%
(19)
Moon Shadow Meadows
54 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Westfir, OR
(paste into your browser to learn more)
Property overview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQagrhTio-k
Nestled atop a hill, our secluded 40-acre property at 2200 feet offers a unique retreat. Once arriving at Moon Shadow Meadows located at the doorstep of Cascade Mountains, you will enjoy expansive views of Diamond Peak, Devil’s Backbone, Dead Mt., Buckhead Mt. Tire Mt. and Alpine Trail ‘1000 over the Pristine North Fork Middle Fork of the Willamette river, fed by Waldo Lake with multiple world class swimming holes, Fly Fishing, Kayaking and the beautiful Office Covered Bridge. Our area boasts some of the best Mt. Biking trails in the world, built on the backbone of our logging history..
A serene remote experience in nature and at the foothills of the cascade Mountains, an outdoor enthusiast dream location without all the crowds and traffic of big resort towns.
Bring your toys and come play with us…..
**Once you get to the bottom of our driveway, we are accessible through two gates and a scenic 2-mile drive up our gravel winding road--*Please note that Uphill traffic has the Right of Way when traveling up our driveway. You will traverse a 450-acre ranch teeming with wildlife and a few cows, providing excellent opportunities for observation. Well-behaved pets are welcome. Enjoy a breathtaking view of Diamond Peak along the way. For outdoor enthusiasts, Moon Shadow Meadows boasts a 1.5-mile mountain bike trail suitable for hiking, running, and wildlife viewing. We are Located just outside Westfir/Oakridge, Oregon, we offer proximity to fantastic Mountain Biking and recreational opportunities. Two charming towns, are a mere 5 miles away, featuring a great pub (The three-legged Crane in Up Town Oakridge), The Willamette Mercantile (Great Bike Shop on HWY58), 2 fantastic and knowledgeable mountain bike shuttle companies, (Cog Wild & Trans Cascadia Excursions)
No WIFI onsite nearest is covered bridge area, down the road. Spotty cell coverage is experienced while on site.
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$25
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96%
(69)
Royal Heart Hill
2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Cottage Grove, OR
**It is required that you read the FULL site description and rules before booking so you know what to expect and what is expected of you! Please do not book if you are not willing to respect this request and our standard operating procedures! If you do not follow our rules you will be flagged, Hipcamp will be notified and you will be charged-depending on cleanup costs/damage!**
SITE DESCRIPTION:
-The private and peaceful 'Royal-Heart Hill' property consists of - Oak Savanna, mixed conifer woodland, camas meadow, undulating hills and a SMALL pond (No swimming or fishing! It is a man-made pond and not stocked because it is home to many rough-skinned newts).
*UPDATE: The timber acreage that borders our property- to the west and north of Overholser Road- was just harvested as of winter 2024. Thus, we no longer have that 'deep in the forest' type-feel, but it did open up some westward/sunset views.
-All guests have access to the outdoor shower, which is located by the green Dome. Please use biodegradable soap in the shower! Potable water spigots are located by the carport and at the top of the steps leading down to our platform site.
-Royal Heart Hill is in the Heart of Royal, Oregon (Cottage Grove proper) at the very end of a Dead-End road, which means no sound or light pollution from passing cars or nearby residences. Surrounded by BLM and Timber properties (please be aware of clearly marked private property/no trespassing signs at the end of the public road), while still being just under 6 miles outside of downtown Cottage Grove-the town of Covered-Bridges- with many options for shopping, dining, breweries and live music! Cottage Grove has nearby access to wineries and two large lakes (Cottage Grove and Dorena) with swimming, boating, fishing, as well as hiking and biking trails. We are 35 minutes/27 miles from Eugene.
*CAUTION! Poison oak is present! Please know how to identify, or ask and I will show you. I have done my best to clear it from main camping areas and trails. Tecnu is provided in the outdoor shower.
-There is a .8 mile loop that goes around the whole property, which we keep mowed and accessible. Hipcampers are welcomed and encouraged to use the loop to explore the property. The loop can be accessed from both campsites by walking south/downhill toward the pond signs and following the mowed path through the meadow and back up toward the road, which will take you back to your campsite. It’s a short hike, but can be made longer by taking off-shoots and exploring the pond area. I have included a screenshot of the loop as recorded by my Strava app, which is in the property photos.
-The property hosts a geodesic play-dome and slack-line (during the dry months) up by the green dome/outdoor shower. Guests may play on these at their own risk and accept liability for any potential or incurred injuries- the closest hospital is 7miles/15minutes away.
RULES:
-LEAVE NO TRACE!
Please check the site for micro-garbage before leaving.
We provide buckets for FOOD compost, DEPOSIT recycling (bottles/cans), which you may leave, as well as a trash bucket/bag, which you must take with you.
*Please be mindful of what you put in the compost bucket! This site considers compost as- food scraps (no stickers- please remove produce stickers and place in trash), egg shells, tissue paper, coffee grounds and paper filters, tea bags (no staples- please remove staples and place in trash). What we do not consider compost- glossy paper such as paper plates, food wrappers, plastic, and anything that was not mentioned above as compost. If you are unsure if something is compostable, please ask!
*Leave no trace also means leave the campsite as you found it, i.e.- if you move camp furniture, rocks, etc., move them back before you leave.
-COMPOSTING TOILETS
There is a composting toilet at each site as well as one by the outdoor shower. PLEASE, poop only! Urinate outside and throw TP in trash or composting barrel (around back of toilet). If one feels uncomfortable urinating outside they may use the toilet by the shower, which is the only toilet with a urine diverter.
*Before use: Make sure bucket is lined with sawdust. After use: Cover waste with sawdust and dump bucket in the composting barrel around back. Replace bucket and line with sawdust. Be Courteous!
-For humanure to break down properly, urine and feces must be kept separate. This is because the urea present in urine degrades into ammonia and kills the microbes that would otherwise break down the waste.
-CAMPFIRES
*ONLY fire-wood and starter may go into the fire- no trash, cigarette butts, food scraps/compost, etc.! Please dispose of these things in provided buckets.
All fire MUST be contained to fire-pits, with the exception of gas camping stoves/burners - no tiki torches, etc!
Fire-wood and starter is provided, but the wood is not split and is stored outside (you may wish to bring your own wood to start fires if the weather has been wet).
-CONDUCT
Check out PROMPTLY at 2PM.
Be respectful and courteous of others- there are two campsites on the hill, so you may not be alone during your stay. My partner and I also live on-site in the Dome. We don't have "quiet hours", but please be respectful and aware that campers usually come here for some peace and quiet.
If you are looking for a place to party with a large group of your friends this is NOT it, find somewhere else. No HARD drug use and absolutely no illegal activity of any kind or you will be asked to leave immediately with no refund.
*The Hipcamper making the booking is responsible for making sure everyone in their group is aware of and follows the rules.
CAMP SITE DESCRIPTIONS-
The 'Platform' site: has a large fire pit, composting toilet (for #2 only), potable water via hose, and electric via extension cord. It is a short distance from our outdoor shower, and is accessible with 4WD during the rainy season and 2WD during the dry season (the site is not accessible with a camper/trailer). From this site one can see the top of the monolithic Dome-Home, which makes it a little less private. **If camping with a vehicle that cannot take the steep road to the site, one can park on our gravel driveway (or at the top of the hill) and walk down via steps or road.**
The 'Tent/Trailer' site: is our more secluded/private site and is available amongst our Madrone and Chinquapin tree zone. The road to this site is flat and accessible by car/camper/small trailer. There is a turn-around (somewhat tight), but trailers larger than 17ft may have difficulty using it. There are many level spaces to park or pitch a tent. Hipcampers have access to electric via extension cord, fire-pit and composting toilet (#2 only); however, potable water, and outdoor shower are all located by the Dome, which hipcampers will have to walk (short distance) or drive to. There is one spigot by the carport and one spigot at the top of the steps leading down to our platform site.
PS: Although the clearcut is an eye-sore, it is an example of what the logging industry does to our forests here in Oregon. I hope this will not put a damper on your camping experience, but it is unfortunately out of my control... On Royal-Heart Hill, we do our best to mitigate any negative impact on the forest with our practices of sustainable thinning, native habitat restoration and permaculture. If you have any questions about our forest management practices- please ask!
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$20
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99%
(584)
Dew Valley Ranch Nature Retreat
15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Bandon, OR
ADULT RETREAT: NO OUTSIDE PET/SERVICES ANIMALS. CHILDREN 12 OR OLDER ONLY....Due to the listing being shared with free range farm animals, we are unable to Host any animals.
Dew Valley Ranch Nature Retreat is a Private Membership Association. We promote a quiet relaxing get back to nature vibe to nurture your mind, body and soul. We specialize in private camping and unique glamping experiences. All our sites are on an acre or more of wooded land each. Each site also has a private potty. Giving you privacy unlike other campgrounds. Face Rock State Beach is a short 10 minute drive away.
We have farm animals to meet and trails to walk through the woods. There are games to play, a camp community garden, hot showers, and even a heated dish washing station. We are 10 minutes from the beautiful Bandon by the sea which offers: fun shopping, crabbing dock, world class golfing, Whiskey Run mountain biking trails, West Coast Game park, horseback riding on the beach, Circles in the Sand, restaurants and of course stunning beaches.
Come and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay. We look forward to hosting you!
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$55
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Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center
5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · OR
TOM'S REST was created by Tom's wife Cheryl in an effort to carry out their plans to provide respite for those in need. Tom Edwards worked tirelessly for years to clear this wild recreation space where he planned to live while helping others. Tom suddenly and unexpectedly passed February 2, 2015 while in the process of making his move to Sisters with his High School sweetheart of 45 years. Cheryl continued his passion and their dream to make this a place for those in need as a way to honor the most giving man she ever knew. This process, while overwhelming, has brought some healing and it is our hope to continue that healing for others in need from life's many trials. We continue to use our funds to promote healing in grief and other trials of life.
We would appreciate hearing from those that have anything to contribute in way of maintenance and housekeeping, services to provide those in need such as massage or counseling, or any other contributions you are led to give. We are developing a list of volunteers to be called upon when someone in need is referred to us and will keep you informed as things develop.
Anyone having a grief, widows/widowers, caregiver, cancer, hospice or other group that would like to have their group listed should message us as well. These respite visits are short getaways to refuel and support individuals during tough times.
Those that come to enjoy Tom's Rest will be ministering to those in need through your paid visits here and hopefully, gain some needed respite of your own. We have taken every precaution for distancing and cleanliness with the ever changing Covid policies for your safety and concerns. Most feel they are pretty much 'on their own' in this retreat area with the option for seclusion OR mingling if so desired.
My deepest thanks to all who have stood alongside through this journey and continue to do so. May we collectively create TOM'S REST with Tom's intention and the passion he infused in us to carry it through to fulfillment.
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$49
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Wild River Sanctuary
2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Crescent, OR
Established in 1963.
The Vann family cabin was built by the Vann family. Third generation energy is steering this new endeavor. Soon to come will be a creek side treehouse and cabin will be available by next summer.
Learn more about this land:
Two tent sites available on the creek. The sites are situated on a one acre river frontage property under the pine trees. Important to note that the two sites are located about 30-40 feet apart. Each site has a private dock and fire pit. You are just minutes from the lakes and a great fire lookout hike. Mountain bike from your tent to endless trails. Enjoy the creek that is just feet away from the sites where you can indulge in a variety of activities including; swimming, floating, fishing, and sunbathing. We have great neighbors who have vacation homes nearby. Dorothy lane is between Earl Lane and Pine Creek Loop. Firewood no longer for sale.
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$30.60
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Waterfront RV camping brownlee
5 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Huntington, OR
Learn more about this land:
We have 125 acre farm ranch that is waterfront on brownlee reservoir. We have multiple camping spots along the water. There are 4 rv or camp trailer camp spots available. All 4 spots are dry camping. No power or water currently. we have a spot to launch boats which is right between sight 3 and 4. Good fishing. Very little boat traffic. Very private. In the fall big horn sheep frequently rut on the property. We usually have fresh eggs on hand. Dry climate. Sage brush and juniper trees here. We have a easy to access spot to fill up water to your camp trailers or rvs. The water is from a spring and Water tastes really good.
This area has a lot of history. Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe often stayed in this area and on the property. In fact this was where his tribe met to discuss and decide to try to go to escape to Canada. This is where that journey started. You can still find arrow heads on the shoreline every so often. I’m ruffly 15 miles north of Huntington oregon. 13 miles of which is dirt road. The property sits at the base of lookout mountain. Really good cell service here with Verizon Full bars. If you decide to come camp make sure your directions take you through Huntington. Google sometimes likes to try to get people to drive over the mountain. Or if your coming from the north it sometimes wants you to go through Richland and then on 34 miles of dirt road. Going Through Huntington onto snake river rd is the easy way to go.
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$40
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Owl Creek Cabin Mountain Getaway
1 site · Lodging5 acres · Ashland, OR
Owl Creek Cabin is in the Cascade Mountains above Ashland, Oregon. The cabin is in a Douglas Fir grove, next to a seasonal creek, on five forested acres, and adjacent to BLM lands open for hiking. It features a firepit (propane-fired during fire season) with Adirondack chairs and an outdoor clawfoot tub for a private soak.
You’ll be greeted when you arrive and briefly introduced to some of the cabin's unique features, including attic stairs to the windowed sleeping loft. Downstairs is a sofa and sofabed. The coffee cart kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator/freezer, coffee maker, electric tea kettle, toaster oven, and microwave. An outdoor gas grill with skillet and saucepan and picnic table allow for outdoor dining. Dishes, linens, and bedding are provided. WiFi speed is suitable for basic use. Mobile phones connect through WiFi. The cabin is non-smoking. Children 8 and up are welcome.
Recreational areas with miles of trails including the Pacific Crest Trail, are nearby plus lakes that offer fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking trails.
A 20-minute drive will take you to Lake of the Woods where you can dine, hike, and kayak. Crater Lake National Park is 50 miles away.
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$135
/ night
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Lakeside camping in Oregon with wildlife watching guide
Overview
Oregon has long been known as an outdoor destination, with snow-capped mountains, rugged high desert, Pacific Coast beaches, and roaring rivers all within a few hours’ drive of one another. While Portland attracts visitors with its celebrated food scene and music venues, Oregon offers much more for those who’d prefer a quieter getaway out in nature. If you’ve come to camp or hike, you’ll have no shortage of options to choose from—in fact, there are 11 national forests, hundreds of state parks and recreation areas, and 2.5 million acres of protected wilderness within the state’s borders.
Where to go
The Willamette Valley
Extending from the border with Washington state down to the community of Springfield, the Willamette Valley is Oregon’s main economic and cultural hub. Although it’s home to the state’s three most populated cities (Portland, Salem, and Eugene), much of the Willamette Valley is dominated by forests and countryside, with plenty of state parks, hiking and mountain biking trails, hot springs, and rivers.
Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge
Just east of Portland on the border with Washington, the Columbia River Gorge offers easy access to miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and great skiing and snowboarding. The adjacent Mt. Hood region has equally beautiful scenery and is as popular for winter skiing and snowboarding as it is for hiking, swimming, and camping in the summer months.
The Oregon Coast
This region is popular year-round, attracting whale-watching fans in the cooler months and campers and hikers in the summer months. Popular Oregon Coast activities include hiking, tide pool viewing, clamming, crabbing, off-road vehicle rides on the sweeping Oregon Dunes, and sampling world-famous cheese and ice cream in Tillamook. While some brave souls don wetsuits for surfing and diving, the Pacific Ocean waters rarely get warm enough for comfortable dips. Some of the area’s best camping options can be found at Harris Beach State Park, Sunset Bay State Park, and Cape Lookout State Park, all of which offer tent camping, yurt rentals, and RV sites with hookups.
Eastern and Central Oregon
Stretching from the portion of the Cascade Range south of the Columbia Gorge all the way east to the Oregon-Idaho border, central and eastern Oregon offer a dryer, sunnier alternative to the rainier parts of the state, with a mix of lush forest and craggy high desert landscapes. Highlights include Deschutes National Forest, popular for backpacking and backcountry stays, while campers in search of a more developed camping experience can head to one of the many Oregon state parks along the Deschutes River, near Bend.
Southern Oregon
Oregon’s southernmost region offers a variety of scenery, with a mix of lakes, forests, and rivers interspersed with rolling expanses of countryside (not to mention some great wineries). The region’s most famous natural attraction is Crater Lake National Park, Oregon’s only national park, set near the southeastern reaches of Umpqua National Forest.
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