Thinking of packing it in and making the move to Oregon? If you’re looking to lead a more outdoorsy lifestyle, this is just the state. With over 100 state parks, Oregon is a true sanctuary for nature novices and devotees alike.
Ahead are the top 10 state parks in Oregon.
Smith Rock State Park
Google Rating: 4.9
Violent/Property Crime: 9.8/25.3
Next up is Smith Rock State Park. Situated in Oregon’s High Desert, this park is high on the list for tent camping lovers. Apart from the day-use area, this park is designated for tent camping only (you won’t find any lodges on site). Smith Rock State Park houses some of the most sought-after climbing routes, making it the birthplace of rock climbing. The park also boasts miles of hiking trails, which include Misery Ridge and Summit Trail. Relatively low on violent and property crime, Smith Rock State Park is a solid choice for exploration, sightseeing, and climbing (for spectators and sportsmen alike).
Silver Falls State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Violent/Property Crime: 10/26.5
Coming in strong as a solid contender is Silver Falls State Park. The largest state park in Oregon is located near Silverton and is a lush and breathtaking gem to discover. With over 9,000 acres, the state park boasts miles of hiking, cycling, fishing spots, and equestrian trails. Descend along a rocky canyon and behold scenic waterfalls and a creek all in a scenic forest floor loop. Ready to dig into this treasure trove of a state park? The main campground includes cabins, RV parks, and tent sites for overnight stays.
Ecola State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Violent/Property Crime: 14.9/37.6
Meet another dazzling contender: Ecola State Park. If you’re looking to explore beachside nature sights and sounds, this park is just the ticket. This wow-worthy 9-mile park lies along the coastline and has isolated beaches, a 7-mile hiking trail, and even a lighthouse. Plus, the picture-perfect views of Haystack Rock are on any sightseer’s to-do list. Ecola State Park is truly the perfect spot for day hiking and picnicking.
Harris Beach State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Violent/Property Crime: 9.5/20.5
Unlock a world of discovery at Harris Beach State Park. Located on US Highway 101, this state park is a magnificent landscape along the rugged coast. Explorers can take in a picturesque seascape, soft and sandy beaches, miles of walking trails, and marvelous wildlife, including whale watching and harbor seals. From amazing scenery to breathtaking ecosystems, Harris Beach is a must-do for any sightseer. Whether you’re day tripping for a beachside picnic lunch or hunkering down in a yurt, unlock an experience among the dunes and sea stacks. Year-round camping is also available, and the low violence and property crime rate make this a safe place.
Fort Stevens State Park
Google Rating: 4.7
Violent/Property Crime: 12.7/43.5
Ready for a historic adventure? Turn to Fort Stevens State Park. Recreation is the name of the game at this state park, and there are 4,300 acres to explore. Known as one of the nation’s largest public campgrounds, Fort Stevens is the place to get your feet wet with beachcombing, trails, freshwater lake swimming, camping, golf, boating, and stellar wildlife watching. Even cooler: there’s a military museum on-site and a historic shipwreck! Year-round camping plus cabins and yurts are also available.
Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area
Google Rating: 4.7
Violent/Property Crime: 14.7/37.4
A new chapter awaits at Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area. Take in the winding, central Oregon Coast at Devils Punchbowl as it contains eye-catching and wondrous geology. First things first: the state park’s namesake is due to a natural carved rock formation resembling a bowl that partially opens to the Pacific Ocean. Epic waves swirl, crash, and churn in the bowl, creating a dramatic effect. A popular state park for surfers, Devils Punch Bowl also draws in whale-watching enthusiasts and hikers from all over the globe.
South Beach State Park
Google Rating: 4.6
Violent/Property Crime: 20.2/81.5
Step right into South Beach State Park. Located on the Oregon coast, the state park is a storied area of sandy beaches, walking and bicycling trails, equestrian trails, and recreation activities (think, golf, horseshoe pits, and a playground). This means beachcombing, crabbing, and boating all are sought-after experiences in the start park (P.S. tour the lighthouse too). Beaches may be the popular spots to picnic and walk in the afternoon sun, but the camping accessible South Beach State Park is also known for forested areas and a freshwater marsh.
Memaloose State Park
Google Rating: 4.6
Violent/Property Crime: 11.3/30.4
If you’re hankering to camp under the stars, put the dog-friendly Memaloose State Park on the docket. This seasonal camping park looks over a scenic river and the impressive Memaloose Island. Amateur botanists will love the lush and colorful wildflowers alongside the beautiful foliage with trees like willow, cottonwood, and maple. The real spot that takes the cake is a grassy meadow that showcases the ultimate wonder of the cosmos with starry night skies on full display.
Valley of the Rogue State Park
Google Rating: 4.4
Violent/Property Crime: 12.1/31.6
Rounding out the list is a true sanctuary, Valley of the Rogue State Park. Near the Rogue River, day-use and overnight guests can linger in a restorative hideaway. Shoreline, walking trails, and camping (or cabins/yurts, if you prefer) await in an idyllic landscape situated by the river.
National Parks
Crater Lake National Park
Google Rating: 4.9
Violent/Property Crime: 60.1/68.7
First on the list is Crater Lake National Park. Located in the Cascade Mountains of southern Oregon, this state park was originally formed by the now-collapsed volcano, Mount Mazama, and is known for its namesake, Crater Lake (FYI: it’s the deepest lake in the USA). This awe-inducing state park is not without its natural formations and striking landscapes. With over 100 miles of hiking trails, there’s a bevy of sights to uncover. Even better, some trails are pet-friendly so you can explore the great outdoors with your dog by your side. From lodging and camping to hiking and cycling (plus vehicle-free days for explorers), Crater Lake hosts a variety of services and experiences.
Thinking of moving to Oregon? Check out our our articles on the best places to retire and the most affordable places to live in the Beaver State. When you’re ready to find your new home, you can find new listings every day at NewHomeSource.com.
*All parks have been ranked based on the criteria of popularity, distance from closest major cities, violent crime, property crime, google ratings, and the number of Google reviews.
Stephanie Valente is a Content Director and Editor in Brooklyn, NY. She’s previously held writing and social media positions at Barkbox, Men’s Journal, and currently works at a full-service advertising agency. She’s a self-confessed home and design enthusiast. Stephanie is an award-winning poet and fiction writer. When she’s offline, you can find her taking a yoga class, running, hanging out with her rescue dog Pepper. Find her on stephanievalente.com.
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