10 Top National parks in Oregon (2023)

There are many National Parks in Oregon but in this article, I examine 10 of them that I consider the best based on their features. The state of Oregon has a little bit of everything from snow-dusted mountains to the Pacific coastline.

Beyond the state’s varied landscape is a long human history that includes several migrations and cross-country expeditions, and this history is honored and protected at Oregon national parks and sites. These special corners of the state showcase the beauty and history of Oregon, a state with 111,619 miles of rivers and streams, 296 miles of coastline, and hundreds of lakes.

One of the most popular national parks in Oregon is Crater Lake National Park. This stunning park is home to the deepest lake in the United States, and visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping in its beautiful surroundings.

Another must-visit park in Oregon is the Oregon Caves National Monument. This unique park features a vast network of underground caves and tunnels that visitors can explore. It’s a great opportunity to learn about geology and history while experiencing the wonder of nature.

So, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a fun day trip, Oregon’s national parks have something for everyone.

10 Best National Parks in Oregon

1. Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Oregon. It is home to Crater Lake, which is the deepest lake in the United States. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. Visitors can also take a boat tour of the lake to get an up-close view of its stunning blue waters.

• Operating Hours: The park is open year-round, but some facilities are closed during the winter months. Please, consult the park’s website for the current operating hours.

• Address: Crater Lake National Park, OR 97604, United States.

2. Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve

Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve is a unique park that features a vast network of underground caves and tunnels. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves and learn about the geology and history of the area. The park also offers hiking trails and camping facilities.

• Operating Hours: The park is open year-round, but some facilities may have limited hours during the winter months. See current operating hours on the park’s website for

• Address: 19000 Caves Hwy, Cave Junction, OR 97523, United States.

3. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is the 3^rd of the 10 National parks in Oregon. It is a must-visit park for anyone interested in paleontology. The park has a collection of a variety of fossils from plants and animals that lived in the area millions of years ago. Visitors can take guided tours of the fossil beds and explore the park’s hiking trails.

• Operating Hours: The park is open year-round, but some facilities may have limited hours during the winter months. Visitors should check the park’s website for current operating hours.

• Address: 32651 OR-19, Kimberly, OR 97848, United States.

4. Newberry National Volcanic Monument

Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a unique park that showcases the volcanic activity that shaped the area. The park features lava tubes, cinder cones, and other volcanic features that visitors can explore. The park also offers hiking trails, camping facilities, and fishing opportunities.

• Operating Hours: The park is open year-round, but some facilities may have limited hours during the winter months. Visitors should check the park’s website for current operating hours.
• Address: 22400 Paulina-East Lake Rd, La Pine, OR 97739, United States.

5. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features massive dunes that visitors can explore on foot, by ATV, or by horseback. The park also offers camping facilities, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing and boating.

• Operating Hours: The park is open year-round, but some facilities may have limited hours during the winter months. Visitors should check the park’s website for current operating hours.
• Address: 855 Hwy 101, Reedsport, OR 97467, United States.

6. Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge

Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area that is home to a variety of wildlife species, including seabirds, seals, and sea lions. Visitors can take guided tours of the refuge and learn about the animals that call it home.

• Operating Hours: The refuge is open year-round, but some facilities may have limited hours during the winter months. Visitors should check the refuge’s website for current operating hours.

• Address: PO Box 39, Charleston, OR 97420, United States.

7. Oregon National Historic Trail

The Oregon National Historic Trail is a 2,170-mile-long trail that follows the route that pioneers took to settle the western United States. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive along the trail and learn about the history of the Oregon Trail and the challenges that pioneers faced during their journey. The trail passes through several states, including Oregon, and offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the American West.

• Operating Hours: The trail is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are mild. Visitors should check the trail’s website for current operating hours.

• Address: The trail spans several states, including Oregon. Visitors should check the trail’s website for specific locations.

8. Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail

The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail takes the #8 spot on this list of National parks in Oregon. It is a 2,650-mile-long trail that runs from Mexico to Canada. It passes through several states, including Oregon, and offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the American West. The trail is popular with hikers and backpackers, and there are several camping facilities along the way.

• Operating Hours: The trail is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are mild. Visitors should check the trail’s website for current operating hours.

• Address: The trail spans several states, including Oregon. Visitors should check the trail’s website for specific locations.

9. Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

The Lewis and Clark National Historical Park is a historic park that commemorates the journey of explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. The park features several historic sites, including Fort Clatsop, where the explorers spent the winter of 1805-1806. Visitors can take guided tours of the park and learn about the history of the area.

• Operating Hours: The park is open year-round, but some facilities may have limited hours during the winter months. Visitors should check the park’s website for current operating hours.

• Address: 92343 Fort Clatsop Rd, Astoria, OR 97103, United States.

10. Fort Vancouver National Historic Site:

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is a historic park that showcases the history of the Pacific Northwest. The park features several historic buildings, including the reconstructed Fort Vancouver, which was a major trading post during the 19th century. Visitors can take guided tours of the park and learn about the history of the area.

• Operating Hours: The park is open year-round, but some facilities may have limited hours during the winter months. Visitors should check the park’s website for current operating hours.

• Address: 612 E Reserve St, Vancouver, WA 98661, United States.

These are just a few of the many National Parks in Oregon with Monuments and Trails included that offer visitors a chance to experience the beauty and history of the American West. If you intend to visit this park soon endeavor to check the park or trail’s website for current operating hours and other important information before planning your trip.

Conclusion

Oregon is a state with a diverse and beautiful landscape that is home to several stunning national parks and recreational areas. From the crystal clear waters of Crater Lake National Park to the rugged coastline of the Oregon Coast National Recreation Area, and the million acres of outdoor adventure at Mount Hood National Forest, there is something for everyone to enjoy in national parks in Oregon.

Before planning your visit to any of these parks, be sure to check their operating hours and addresses, as well as any other important information such as park fees and camping reservations. By taking the time to plan your trip, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the natural beauty of Oregon.