Cascadia State Park is a large park, but is not overrun with campsites, meaning it is tranquil and perfect for an escape. The campsites are open May 1 to September 30, and the west picnic area is open year-round. The campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. There are two hiking trails--one leading to the Soda Creek Falls and one along the South Santiam River, where you can fish and swim.
Cascadia State Park
Santiam Highway
Sweet Home, Oregon 97386
541-367-6021
oregonstateparks.org/park_210.php
Set in the Cascade Mountains, Detroit Lake State Park's campground (open March to September) borders Detroit Lake, which is over nine miles long and a perfect spot for fishing, boating, swimming, and water-skiing. The park also has two playgrounds, a wildlife viewing area, and a visitor center with historical exhibits and a gift store. There is a calendar of nature programs and special events running throughout the year.
Detroit Lake State Park
Mile Post 49
Detroit, Oregon 97342
503-854-3346
oregonstateparks.org/park_93.php
One of the highlights for visitors to North Santiam State Park is the beautiful North Santiam River, well known for its steelhead fishing opportunities. There are also boating trips, hiking trails, a picnic area, and a drinking fountain and restroom area. The picnic area can be reserved in advance for no charge.
North Santiam State Park
Central Cascade Range, Oregon 97301-1002
800-551-6949
oregonstateparks.org/park_92.php
Silver Falls State Park is a rain forest set low in the Cascade Mountains, renowned for the Canyon Trail, a nationally recognized track along the banks of Silver Creek, encompassing 10 waterfalls (the highest of which is 177 feet) and providing extensive bird-watching opportunities. Other features include facilities for tent and cabin camping, horseback riding, playgrounds, swimming, and biking. There are reservable picnic shelters, meeting halls, and ranches.
Silver Falls State Park
20024 Silver Falls Hwy. SE
Sublimity, Oregon 97385
503-873-8681
oregonstateparks.org/park_211.php
State Capitol State Park is known for its wide variety of plants and flowers, including the cherry blossom. The park grounds include three fountains that operate during the cherry blossom season. The park is steeped in history: its Moon Tree, a state heritage Douglas fir, grew from a seed carried to the moon on Apollo 14 in 1971. Stone plaques within the sidewalks list the county seat and establishment date for each of Oregon's 36 counties.
State Capitol State Park
900 Court Street Northeast
Salem, Oregon 97301-4041
503-986-1388
oregonstateparks.org/park_257.php
Willamette Mission State Park, situated in the Willamette Valley, is a park of great historical significance. It is set on land where the first mission for American Indians was founded in 1834, members of which were subsequently active in the creation of Oregon government. The park provides boating and angling opportunities and has extensive picnic facilities with rentable charcoal barbecues. There are designated soccer, softball, and volleyball areas.
Willamette Mission State Park
Wheatland Road, Oregon 97132
503-393-1172
oregonstateparks.org/park_139.php
