Oregon is well known for it’s incredible forests, and if you’ve ever taken some time to wander through the woods here, you can understand why. While there are many amazing state parks and nature preserves to be explored, Oregon also has six truly astounding state forests. With bountiful wildlife, scenic trails, and outdoor adventures, these state forests make for unforgettable camping or day trips, perfect for anyone who wants to get off the beaten path and experience the natural beauty of Oregon.
- Santiam State Forest
Flickr/ Oregon Department of Forestry The spectacular Santian State Forest is located on the western slope of the Cascades, just 25 miles southeast of Salem. Many creeks flow throughout the forest, all leading to the North Santiam River. With abundant wildlife and amazing scenery, this forest offers camping, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and amazing hiking trails leading to summits and waterfalls alike.
- Elliott State Forest
Flickr/ Oregon Department of Forestry Elliott State Forest is the oldest state forest in Oregon. Located in the Oregon Coast Range, the forest is home to many different tree and wildlife species.
- Gilchrist State Forest
Flickr/ Oregon Department of Forestry Located in Northern Klamath County, this 70,000 acre state forest was opened in 2010 and is absolutely gorgeous.
- Clatsop State Forest
Flickr/ Vesper Clatsop State Forest is a natural wonderland in the northwest corner of Oregon with creeks, Bloom lake, and awesome hiking opportunities.
- Tillamook State Forest
Flickr/ Oregon Department of Forestry This incredible 364,000 acre state forest is located 40 miles west of Portland. Dominated by Douglas Firs, the forest is a wonderful place to wander through the woods, go mushroom picking, watch wildlife, or take part in outdoor recreations.
- Sun Pass State Forest
Flickr/ sfgamchick This amazing state forest is situated near Crater Lake atop layers of basalt rock. Although the forest doesn’t have a formal recreation program, this is a great place for day trips or camping because of it’s serene beauty and the ability to explore features like Sun Mountain, Sun Creek, and Sand Ridge.
Have you been to these state forests? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments.
Flickr/ Oregon Department of Forestry
The spectacular Santian State Forest is located on the western slope of the Cascades, just 25 miles southeast of Salem. Many creeks flow throughout the forest, all leading to the North Santiam River. With abundant wildlife and amazing scenery, this forest offers camping, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and amazing hiking trails leading to summits and waterfalls alike.
Elliott State Forest is the oldest state forest in Oregon. Located in the Oregon Coast Range, the forest is home to many different tree and wildlife species.
Located in Northern Klamath County, this 70,000 acre state forest was opened in 2010 and is absolutely gorgeous.
Flickr/ Vesper
Clatsop State Forest is a natural wonderland in the northwest corner of Oregon with creeks, Bloom lake, and awesome hiking opportunities.
This incredible 364,000 acre state forest is located 40 miles west of Portland. Dominated by Douglas Firs, the forest is a wonderful place to wander through the woods, go mushroom picking, watch wildlife, or take part in outdoor recreations.
Flickr/ sfgamchick
This amazing state forest is situated near Crater Lake atop layers of basalt rock. Although the forest doesn’t have a formal recreation program, this is a great place for day trips or camping because of it’s serene beauty and the ability to explore features like Sun Mountain, Sun Creek, and Sand Ridge.
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