If you are looking for an exciting family adventure, take a tour of Ocean World in Crescent City. This is one of the best privately-owned small aquariums in the United States. Go on a fully guided 45-minute tour that begins with a visit to the tide pool where kids and adults can touch the sea life. There are local flora, sea stars, anemones, sea slugs and more. In the main … [Read more...]
#14 – Northcoast Marine Mammal Center
When marine mammals are stranded, sick, or injured along the coastline of Humboldt and Del Norte counties, the Northcoast Marine Mammal Center rescues them. These animals are rehabilitated at the center with the goal of being released back into the wild. The NMMC cares for harbor seals, sea lions, elephant seals, fur seals, and porpoises. Whales are usually assisted via the Wh … [Read more...]
#16 – Redwood National and State Parks
Known as Redwood NSP by the National Park Service, the entire complex stretches roughly 50 miles from near the Oregon border to south of Orick. The individual parks border and intersect one another to such an extent that they have come to be managed as if they were one entity, although different rules apply in the national and state-run sections. Truly one of the world’s p … [Read more...]
#21 – Harris Beach & Chetco Point Park
Brookings is home to several beautiful beaches. Take an afternoon to explore them, picnic or walk the adjacent trails. Some of these beaches boast a treasure trove of shells and stones, while others provide a glimpse into marine life through tide pools. Camping accommodations can also be found. Harris Beach State Park, on the north side of Brookings, has an exceptional rocky … [Read more...]
#22 – Alfred A. Loeb State Park
Need to relax? Love the outdoors? Alfred A. Loeb State Park combines secluded relaxation with the natural wonders of Southern Oregon. The crisp fragrance of myrtlewood is the prevailing scent in the air; the park is nestled in groves of these marvelous 200-year-old trees. Just beyond the park, the Chetco River rushes toward the Pacific Ocean. Depending on the time of year, the … [Read more...]
#23 – Azalea City Park
In Azalea City Park you can walk among ancient native azaleas that were growing when Lewis and Clark wintered on the Oregon Coast in 1805-06. Follow the numerous trails through this 33-acre park past astonishing endangered azaleas, annuals, shrubs and through stands of enormous trees. The paths are originally part of a pack trail that was used by miners in the 1850s. This was … [Read more...]
#28 – Arch Rock
Positioned roughly halfway between Gold Beach and Brookings, Arch Rock is the most well-known and easily viewed of the wave-cut natural arches and “bridges” in the Samuel Boardman Scenic Corridor. The squat, flat-topped formation is about 500 feet offshore and lies next to another small island. Extending to the north are a series of sea stacks that make up Mack’s Reef, a part of … [Read more...]
#32 – Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor
Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor offers gorgeous panoramic vistas. There are two parking areas that provide direct access to the overlooks. The first of them sits 200 feet above sea level and offers a view that can extend over 40 miles north. Mt. Humbug is a dominant part of this remarkable vista. The view to the south is even more amazing, spanning out for more than 50 … [Read more...]
#36 – Prehistoric Gardens & Rainforest
Did you know there is a forest in Oregon that gets between 80 and 100 inches of rainfall a year? One of the best and certainly most unique ways to experience this amazing piece of Oregon’s landscape and beauty is to visit the Prehistoric Gardens and Rain Forest. This temperate rainforest exhibit is replete with life-sized re-creations of dinosaurs that kids will love. Each d … [Read more...]
#46 – Humbug Mountain State Park
Rising majestically from the crashing surf of the Pacific Ocean about 6 miles south of Port Orford, Humbug Mountain is a massive headland visible from miles away, both to the north and the south. Heavily forested (much of it old growth) and offering a variety of scenic hiking trails, it is the centerpiece of Humbug Mountain State Park and the tallest mountain directly on the … [Read more...]
#47 – Port Orford Heads State Park & Battle Rock Park
Port Orford Heads State Park is a beautiful expanse of coastal land running along the western edge of Port Orford, and Battle Rock Park another, running along the town’s southeastern shore. Both are rich in natural beauty, recreational opportunities sand historical significance. Port Orford Heads State Park has excellent hiking trails on the headlands affording dramatic vi … [Read more...]
#50 – The Tiger Preservation Center
Not a zoo, not a commercial roadside enterprise; the Tiger Preservation Center is a sanctuary. From their mission statement: The Tiger Preservation Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit federally licensed rehabilitation facility for endangered species. Our mission is to provide sanctuary and care of injured, abused or orphaned exotic wildlife, with an emphasis on big cats. We are … [Read more...]
#51 – Great Cats World Park
Few animals combine power and grace like the great cats. These enormous predators are as beautiful as they are dangerous. Great Cats World Park allows you to watch as trainers work with the animals to bring out their natural predatory behavior. The park is home to one of the largest and most varied collections of wild and exotic cats on the West Coast. The athletic abilities … [Read more...]
#53 – Oregon Caves National Monument
On the surface the Oregon Caves National Monument may appear to be much like other outdoor areas in Southern Oregon, but it’s not just the delightful trails meandering throughout beautiful forests that are amazing about this area. Below the earth’s surface lies a vast system of caverns and caves, and the park itself offers many family-focused opportunities. These beautiful ma … [Read more...]
#56 – Illinois River Forks State Park
If you need a break from driving, or just some respite from the daily grind, check out one of the delightful picnic areas here where the east and west forks of the Illinois River meet. Stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. Keep your eyes peeled and explore the unique geological features and beautiful plant and animal life. There are many fantastic fishing holes and spots … [Read more...]
#63 – Valley of the Rogue State Park
The beautiful Rogue River is one of Oregon’s true treasures, and Valley of the Rogue State Park is a great place to stop and experience it. The park is conveniently located just off I-5, and has a day-use picnic area and an overnight campground along 3 miles of Rogue River shoreline. Launch a boat and spend the day on the water. Spend an afternoon fishing, drifting down the r … [Read more...]
#66 – Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center
Wildlife Images Rehabilitation and Education Center in Grants Pass was founded in 1981 to provide for the care and treatment of sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. It has since expanded to provide educational programs on wildlife, conservation, and the environment to schools, organizations and the general public. It is located on 24 acres of land adjacent to the wild and … [Read more...]
#7 – Tour Thru Tree
Between 900 and 1,00 years ago, a redwood began to grow outside Klamath. It has withstood the test of time and the elements and today stands as a healthy living redwood. However, this tree is even more unique. A tunnel was made through the tree in 1976, so today you can actually drive through the trunk of this enormous giant known as the Tour Thru Tree. As you take your car … [Read more...]
#73 – Alpacas at Lone Ranch
Remember that alpaca sweater you saw in a store? How would you like to have a close look at the animals that grew the fleece that turned into the yarn that made that sweater? Head for Alpacas at Lone Ranch, where owners Richard and Renate Gyuro maintain a herd of about 50 of these unique animals. For a terrific family outing, you can experience these gentle, mystical animals by … [Read more...]
#74 – Agate Lake
A beautiful and popular recreational destination just outside of White City, Agate Lake County Park is 216 acres of natural beauty that include 3 miles of lake frontage. It is perfect for fishing, swimming, picnicking, agate hunting or just taking in the view of Mt. McLoughlin while enjoying a peaceful day by the lake. Black-tailed deer can be found here, and over 190 species … [Read more...]
#79 – Parks Near Shady Cove
Take the time to stop and enjoy the beauty of nature at nearby state recreation areas. Casey State Recreation Site is a day-use area that makes a perfect, relaxing stop off Hwy 62. Have a picnic among the trees. Raft the river or bring along your rod and reel and see if you can snare some salmon, steelhead or trout. Nearby, you can take yourself on a self-guided tour of the … [Read more...]
#8 – Trees of Mystery
Northern California’s redwood trees are some of the most remarkable sights in the world. A great place to enjoy them is at Trees of Mystery in Klamath. When you arrive, the official hosts, a towering 50 ft. Paul Bunyan and 35 ft. Babe the Blue Ox, will greet you. One of the most popular attractions is the nearly mile-long, groomed interpretive trail that takes you through the r … [Read more...]
#87 – Crater Lake National Park
On a trip to Crater Lake, Oregon’s only National Park, you will be transported into a magical wonderland with an explosive volcanic past. The deep blue lake is surrounded by sheer cliffs almost 2,000 ft. high. Take a boat tour over the surface of this marvelous lake, or hike the rim of the gigantic crater that holds the water. There are trails that meander through the park’s … [Read more...]
#95 – Historic Lithia Park
Lithia Park began in 1892 as eight acres dedicated to entertainment and culture. It has grown and changed dramatically, and today comprises 93 acres, 42 of which are on the National Register. In 1910 the lower duck pond and waterfall feeding it were constructed. In 1914 John McLaren, who also designed San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, was hired as Lithia Park’s landscape arc … [Read more...]