{"id":913,"date":"2024-03-20T18:29:06","date_gmt":"2024-03-20T18:29:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/?p=913"},"modified":"2025-01-29T20:40:58","modified_gmt":"2025-01-29T20:40:58","slug":"oregon-vacation-places","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/oregon-vacation-places\/","title":{"rendered":"Oregon Travel Guide: Must-See Vacation Places and Things to Do in the Beaver State"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Last update: Jan. 29, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With 98,000 square miles to explore, and a diverse set of geographical areas, you\u2019ll need an Oregon travel guide to help you find the best Oregon vacation places. So, if you\u2019re an adventurer at heart, love to enjoy museums and history, or just want to explore, come take a journey with us on all of the things Oregon has to offer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Table of Contents<\/h2><nav><ul><li><a href=\"#h-temperate-rainforests-volcanic-rock-deserts-and-forest-land-hiking-oregon\">Temperate Rainforests, Volcanic Rock, Deserts, and Forest Land- Hiking Oregon<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-portland-oregon-the-obvious-oregon-travel-guide-entry\">Portland, Oregon: The Obvious Oregon Travel Guide Entry<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-oregon-travel-guide-to-museums-from-historical-to-just-for-fun\">Oregon Travel Guide to Museums and Historical Treasures<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-travel-around-oregon-s-waterways\">Travel Around Oregon\u2019s Waterways<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#visiting-oregons-inland-waterways\">Visiting Oregon&#8217;s Inland Waterways<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-oregon-travel-guide-to-caves-and-geological-secrets\">Oregon Travel Guide to Caves and Geological Secrets<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-the-water-falls-all-over-oregon\">Oregon Travel Guide: Finding Water Falls all Over Oregon<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-pick-your-oregon-travel-guide-experience\">Pick Your Oregon Travel Guide Experience<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-7-things-you-must-know-before-your-oregon-vacation\">11 Things You Must Know Before Your Oregon Vacation<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-21-things-to-do-in-the-oregon-outdoors\">21 Things to Do in the Oregon Outdoors This Year<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-things-to-do-in-oregon-in-the-summer\">Things to Do in Oregon in the Summer<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-temperate-rainforests-volcanic-rock-deserts-and-forest-land-hiking-oregon\">Temperate Rainforests, Volcanic Rock, Deserts, and Forest Land- Hiking Oregon<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/IMG_4626-1024x768.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-20926\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/IMG_4626-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/IMG_4626-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/IMG_4626-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/IMG_4626-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/IMG_4626.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Mountain face and water collide in sheer majesty at Smith Rock State Park.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most popular things to do in Oregon is to grab your gear and head out on a hike. Oregon boasts 195 <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/oregonstateparks.org\/index.cfm?do=visit.dsp_find\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">state parks<\/a> and <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/state\/or\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">5 National parks<\/a>, including historic sites and trails. Whether you are an advanced hiker, or just want to take a leisurely stroll, Oregon has something for you with <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/easy-hikes-in-oregon\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"8810\">hikes that range from easy<\/a> to difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For Hikes that promote Oregon\u2019s fairy tale reputation of misty, mossy, tree-filled landscapes, try <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/drift-creek-falls\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Drift Creek Falls<\/a> or Beazell Forest. If you want something a little more unique, our Oregon travel guide has plenty of hikes that take you through more diverse regions as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/webversionP32A1943-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Oregon Travel Guide to the Painted Hills\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/painted-hills-created-mother-nature\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">John Day Fossil Beds national park<\/a> is a prominent feature in most Oregon travel guides for its vibrant colored hills and geological history. The two main areas of the park contain hiking trails that weave through plant and animal evolution, depicting climate changes that occurred over 40 million years ago. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of Oregon&#8217;s greatest hiking phenomena is the mighty waterfall, and you&#8217;ll find plenty of options for combining hiking with some of the earth&#8217;s greatest cascades. For a challenging upill adventure, featuring no less than 15 switchbacks, why not head to the summit of <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/multnomah-falls-columbia-river-gorge\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10055\">Multnomah Falls<\/a>. Multnomah Falls is often referred to as Oregon&#8217;s highest water fall, so you&#8217;re sure to get your steps in. If you favor quantity as well as quality, then <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/silver-falls-state-parkoregon-10-awesome-waterfalls-in-a-single-day\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5873\">Silver Falls State Park<\/a> has a treat in store for you, with 10 waterfalls spread across a single 7 mile hike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To experience scenic wonders in one compact state park, head over to Smith Rock. Twelve official trails travers the 650 acres of the park, but some of the easiest ones never venture more than a few miles from the parking area. But the views you&#8217;ll experience in that short distance are sublime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-smith-rock-2-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"A river winds a course around two enormous rock faces with a green river plain in the foreground at Smith Rock State Park.\" class=\"wp-image-25058\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-smith-rock-2-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-smith-rock-2-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-smith-rock-2-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-smith-rock-2-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-smith-rock-2.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Even if you do nothing more than look at the scenery, you&#8217;ll enjoy a visit to Smith Rock State Park near Bend, OR.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Most State and National Parks are free to visit but some do ask for a small parking fee. They have restrooms, well maintained bridges and trails, and clear trail maps. Making a road trip of state and national parks is a great way to travel around Oregon.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of the state and national parks also feature campgrounds. The added option of staying in an area for more than a day, is a great way to experience Oregon&#8217;s vacation places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-portland-oregon-the-obvious-oregon-travel-guide-entry\">Portland, Oregon: The Obvious Oregon Travel Guide Entry<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/PortalndAdobeStock_23222057-1-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"Oregon Travel guide Portland\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>No Oregon travel guide would be complete without touching on Portland. In fact, when it comes to things to do in Oregon, most people will first spout out \u201cYou have to go to Portland!\u201d  Portland is Oregon\u2019s most populated city and one of the most popular Oregon vacation places to visit. Odds are, if you are flying into Oregon, this is where you will land.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a motto of \u201cKeep Portland Weird,\u201d the city offers many out-of-the-box ideas on things to do. (If you do visit Portland, be sure to pose under the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g52024-d440217-i51792331-Voodoo_Doughnut-Portland_Oregon.html\" target=\"_blank\">large sign<\/a> that visually screams the motto). For example, you can see the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atlasobscura.com\/places\/mill-ends-park\" target=\"_blank\">World\u2019s Smallest Park<\/a>, a 452 square inch spit of land holding the world record for most miniature park. Or try the <a href=\"https:\/\/traveloutlandish.com\/blog\/freakybuttrue-peculiarium-portland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Freakybuttrue Peculiarium<\/a>, a Halloween-feeling museum for all things weird and peculiar. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/PortlandAdobeStock_84706731.jpeg\" alt=\"Travel Portland Oregon, a popular Oregon vacation place\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For more inside-the-box ideas, Portland includes many historical museums, mesmerizing Chinese and <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/japanesegarden.org\/a-day-at-the-garden\/\" target=\"_blank\">Japanese gardens<\/a>, and endless restaurants and pubs. And don\u2019t forget about the famous <a href=\"https:\/\/www.voodoodoughnut.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Voodoo Donuts!<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-oregon-travel-guide-to-museums-from-historical-to-just-for-fun\">Oregon Travel Guide to Museums and Historical Treasures<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Hangar-B-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Oregon vacation places include the Tillamook Air Museum- Hangar B\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p> The word \u201cmuseum\u201d tends to bring about memories of pure boredom during school field trips, but Oregon brings its own flair. In our endless pursuit of finding things to do in Oregon, we have experienced quite a few of the more unique and exciting Oregon specimens.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our favorite museum on our Oregon travel guide, <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/antique-powerland-museum\/\">Antique Powerland <\/a>Museum, is perfect for the antique machinery lover. It containins over 15 different museums of vintage cars, trucks, tractors, motorcycles and such. For a quirkier experience, the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/oregon-living-rock-museum\/\" target=\"_blank\">Living Rock Museum<\/a> is handmade entirely from stone and includes endless examples of stone materials. The highlight of the museum are the works of art, carefully crafted from thin layers of volcanic rock, <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/IMG_9103-e1548096156592-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Albany Carousel managerie in the carving phase, Museums are great Oregon vacation places\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Museum experiences that are great for kids include either the Salem Carousel or <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/albany-carousel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" 0>Albany Historic Carousel Museum<\/a>. Both museums walk you through the process of creating menagerie animals (what carousel animals are called) all from hand. And to top it off, you can ride the actual carousels all built by volunteers! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for some more historical things to do In Oregon, try the <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/tillamook-air-museum-forgotten-history\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 1>Tillamook Air Museum<\/a>. Most people aren\u2019t even aware there was a blimp air force base stationed right off the coast of Oregon. Here you can learn about Oregon\u2019s role in WWII. If aviation is your forte, the <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/air-museum-in-mcminnville-oregon\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4831\">Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum<\/a> has the largest collection of airplanes in Oregon. Located in McMinnville, the large glass front buildings show off the diverse collection, with a focus on the crown jewel.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/IMG_7874-e1551632596656.jpg\" alt=\"Air Museum in Oregon\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p> The infamous \u201cSpruce Goose\u201d takes up practically the entire length and width of the main building of the museum. Being made entirely of wood due to wartime metal restrictions, the Spruce Goose or Flying Boat only made one flight. Oregon\u2019s museums are one of a kind, educational, and should definitely not be overlooked in any Oregon travel guide! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/fort-stevens-wwii\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 2>Fort Stevens<\/a> in Astoria is a Civil War and WWII fort that defended the Columbia River against oncoming enemies. The state park features a stroll along the coastline through many abandoned fort buildings. Most are open for exploration, and a small museum provides greater insight into the history of the establishment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-travel-around-oregon-s-waterways\">Travel Around Oregon\u2019s Waterways<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/18740783_10211577921435828_5298872810149468753_n.jpg\" alt=\"Fishing in oregon\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re seeking fun on or near the water, the obvious Oregon place to visit is the coastline. If you have not seen the Pacific coast before, it is unlike any other. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Driving Oregon\u2019s coastline along highway 101 is a great way to sightsee and get to know the little towns and scenic places along the way. You\u2019ll travel from sandy beaches and dunes, to jagged rock outcroppings high above the water, to forested land adjacent to the crashing waves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-twisted-tree-oregon-coast-cape-perpetua-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"A twisted tree frames a view of the ocean at Cape Perpetua on Oregon&#039;s central coast.\" class=\"wp-image-25059\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-twisted-tree-oregon-coast-cape-perpetua-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-twisted-tree-oregon-coast-cape-perpetua-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-twisted-tree-oregon-coast-cape-perpetua-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-twisted-tree-oregon-coast-cape-perpetua-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-twisted-tree-oregon-coast-cape-perpetua.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A twisted tree frames a view of the ocean at Cape Perpetua on Oregon&#8217;s central coast.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to get a more hands-on experience with Oregon\u2019s coast, (one of the most popular Oregon vacation places for locals,) deep sea fishing, crabbing, and clamming will put you in the thick of it. Each bay has a few fishing charters to pilot you safely into the action. \u00a0Depoe Bay\u2019s <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tradewindscharters.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 3>Tradewinds Charter<\/a> or <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/brookingsfishing.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 4>Brookings Fishing Charters<\/a> are both great options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/18157901_10211335573697286_91420108150176703_n.jpg\" alt=\"Oregon Travel Guide to Clamming\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you get seasick but still want to experience the thrill of the catch, you can try crabbing from a dock or digging clams up during low tides. Most <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/stepoutside.org\/article\/10-best-bait-and-tackle-shops-in-oregon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 5>local fishing and tackle places<\/a> will rent out all the crabbing and clamming supplies you need. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While traveling the famed 101 along the coast, be sure to visit some of the <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/cape-meares-seconds-to-go-short\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1371\">coastline lighthouses<\/a>. You&#8217;ll learn fascinating stories, unique history and even see some new and unique architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-yaquina-lighthouse-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"White lighthouse towers over a small white building set against the bright blue sky on the Oregon Coast.\" class=\"wp-image-25060\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-yaquina-lighthouse-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-yaquina-lighthouse-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-yaquina-lighthouse-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-yaquina-lighthouse-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oregon-travel-guide-yaquina-lighthouse.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"visiting-oregons-inland-waterways\">Visiting Oregon&#8217;s Inland Waterways<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Heading inland, Oregon offers many freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams to explore. For a relaxing day, grab your boat and family and head to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.recreation.gov\/camping\/gateways\/244\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" 6>Foster lake<\/a> for swimming, boating, tubing or just floating about. Here you can camp, picnic, or swim from the shore if you don\u2019t have access to a boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking to combine hiking and the lake experience, <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/the-things-you-must-do-at-crater-lake-national-park\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5590\">Crater Lake National Park<\/a> is a must-do in any Oregon travel guide. Besides the fact that Crater Lake is gorgeous, with its crystal blue water and ridge top views, it is a great place to swim! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/P32A9377-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Crater lake, one of the best Oregon vacation places. \" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Crater Lake does feature a moderate hike down to the water, with a difficult climb back up the steep switchbacks. Once down at the bottom, the water is clear, cool, and very refreshing, although the shoreline can get a little crowded in the summer. If you are looking for a great Oregon vacation place, we recommend Crater Lake.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Working our way through bodies of water, we move onto Oregon\u2019s roughly 110,994 miles of rivers. Rivers in Oregon tend to wind their way through dense and scenic forest while giving unique views of the wildlife that call Oregon home. Fishing on Oregon\u2019s rivers is almost a right of passage for many local residents. In the winter, there are steelhead to be caught, and spring and fall bring salmon and trout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Rivers-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"River in Oregon with green plant life surrounding it\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The rivers are used for more than just fishing. People in Oregon love to float the rivers. You just need a tube and some friends and you could spend hours drifting downstream. For waters that are too turbulent to float, kayaking and white water rafting are a fun option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rafting part of the 26-mile McKenzie river is one of the most thrilling ways to experience the Willamette National Forest in central Oregon. By <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/mckenzieguides.com\/guides-and-outfitters\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 7>signing up with one of the many outfitters<\/a>, you can navigate the class II and III rapids under the direction of an experienced guide.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/AdobeStock_156292467-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"Oregon Travel guide to White Water Rafting\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Other outfitters direct tours down the Rogue River. For something a little safer, but offering just as much adrenaline-pumping fun, we highly recommend the <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/rogue-river-jet-boat-tours\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5433\">Rogue River jet boat tour<\/a>s up the Wild and Scenic Rogue River. You&#8217;ll follow a historic mail route and even deliver the day&#8217;s post in the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On our last trip down the Rogue, we rented a cabin nearby, and it quickly became one of our favorite Oregon vacation places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-oregon-travel-guide-to-caves-and-geological-secrets\">Oregon Travel Guide to Caves and Geological Secrets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/aaaa.jpg\" alt=\"Rock Formations are a must see in the Oregon Travel Guide\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p> Oregon\u2019s diverse landscapes are home to hidden caves and geological formations. Then again, some of the caves are not so secret.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, most people have heard of the simply-named <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/orca\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 8>\u201cThe Oregon Caves National Monument.\u201d<\/a> Part of this massive underground marble cavern was discovered in 1874 and has been drawing visitors ever since. The cave used to be quite dangerous to explore, but pathways and stairs have been added to make touring easier and safer. Oregon Caves is part of the National Park system which offers a <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/orca\/planyourvisit\/cave-tours.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 9>variety of guided tours.<\/a> Oregon has many lesser known caves as well. The <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/lava-caves-bend\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4179\">lava tube caves near Bend <\/a>may seem off-the-beaten track and take a little bit of effort to find, but can be well worth the excursion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogomerch.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Oregon-adventure-merch-1024x614.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22987\" style=\"width:1450px;height:auto\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Oregon-adventure-merch-1024x614.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Oregon-adventure-merch-300x180.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Oregon-adventure-merch-768x461.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Oregon-adventure-merch-1536x922.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Oregon-adventure-merch-2048x1229.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.blm.gov\/visit\/derrick-cave\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 0>Derrick Cave<\/a>, an estimated 1,200 foot long lava tube, lies deep in the heart of the Devil\u2019s Garden volcanic field just outside of the Deschutes National Forest. The nearest road is rough, so if you venture out, plan on taking a four-wheel drive vehicle.  While exploring the \u00bc-mile stretch of Derrick cave, it\u2019s also important to have the proper supplies. A flashlight is essential as the tube is 30 feet high, putting you deep beneath the sunlight. It\u2019s also cool underground, so prepare for cooler temperatures and bring a jacket. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To tour a well maintained cave structure, <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/lava-river-cave-oregon-bend\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"19436\">Lava River Cave<\/a> in the Newberry Volcanic monument offers a 2 mile round trip trek through a subterranean lava tube. Lava tubes were formed as volcanic flows cooled and hardened. As the lava drained away, the hard outer shell remained, leaving an underground labyrinth of trails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-water-falls-all-over-oregon\">Oregon Travel Guide: Finding Water Falls all Over Oregon<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/mcdowell-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Waterfall in oregon\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Oregon could easily be described as the land of waterfalls. In just about any area of the state, you can find tumbling falls, from the <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.oregon.com\/attractions\/multnomah_falls\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 1>famed Multnomah Falls<\/a> on the Columbia River to the more secreted and spirited <a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/yaquina-falls\/\">Yaquina Falls<\/a> in the Willamette River valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Two favorites that must be included in every Oregon travel guide are Toketee Falls in the Umpqua National Forest and <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/mcdowell-creek-falls-oregon-hike\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" 2>McDowell Creek falls<\/a> just outside of Lebanon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/tokatee-falls-e1551635059897.jpg\" alt=\"The many rivers are great Oregon vacation places\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:2000px\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Tokatee Falls plunges 120 feet over a two-tiered drop through volcanic basalt. The .4 mile hike to the falls offers many prime views of the North Umpqua River and is a great side-trip when visiting Crater Lake. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/mcdowell-creek-falls-oregon-hike\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" 3>McDowell Creek falls<\/a> is a bit of a local secret. Hidden not far from Salem, Oregon, this tucked-away wonder features 3 miles of trails through a verdant green forest. Beautiful boardwalks enhance the hike, allowing featured viewing of the falls without damaging delicate landscapes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pick-your-oregon-travel-guide-experience\">Pick Your Oregon Travel Guide Experience<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p> Oregon is as diverse and wonderful as it is weird and quirky. Take some time to get out and explore its varied landscape and activities.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Seconds to Go has you covered with a continuously updated collection of trips to always keep you on the go. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-css-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-things-you-must-know-before-your-oregon-vacation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/7-things-to-know-before-taking-oregon-vacation\/\">11 Things You Must Know Before Your Oregon Vacation<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/11-oregon-travel-tips-pin.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-21-things-to-do-in-the-oregon-outdoors\"><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/oregon-outdoors-this-year\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"7988\">21 Things to Do in the Oregon Outdoors This Year<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/22-TipsOPT.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-things-to-do-in-oregon-in-the-summer\"><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/oregon-in-summer\/\">Things to Do in Oregon in the Summer<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/oREGON-SUMMER-PIN-683x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8954\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/oREGON-SUMMER-PIN-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/oREGON-SUMMER-PIN-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/oREGON-SUMMER-PIN-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/oREGON-SUMMER-PIN.png 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Last update: Jan. 29, 2025 With 98,000 square miles to explore, and a diverse set of geographical areas, you\u2019ll need an Oregon travel guide to help you find the best Oregon vacation places. So, if you\u2019re an adventurer at heart, love to enjoy museums and history, or just want to explore, come take a journey &#8230; <a title=\"Oregon Travel Guide: Must-See Vacation Places and Things to Do in the Beaver State\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/oregon-vacation-places\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Oregon Travel Guide: Must-See Vacation Places and Things to Do in the Beaver State\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":22317,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":true,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[27],"tags":[24,15,94],"ppma_author":[2365],"class_list":["post-913","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-category-oregon-travel-guide","tag-oregon-hikes","tag-oregon-history","tag-oregon-travel-guide","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50"],"authors":[{"term_id":2365,"user_id":1,"is_guest":0,"slug":"khesketh","display_name":"Kathleen Hesketh","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/litespeed\/avatar\/23494c9101089ad44ae88ce9d2f56aac.jpg?ver=1776270165","url2x":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/litespeed\/avatar\/23494c9101089ad44ae88ce9d2f56aac.jpg?ver=17762701652x"},"0":null,"1":"","2":"","3":"","4":"","5":"","6":"","7":"","8":"","9":""}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/913","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=913"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/913\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":25065,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/913\/revisions\/25065"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/22317"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=913"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=913"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=913"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=913"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}