Five Oregon State Parks to visit this fall

Fall in Oregon’s state parks is a magical time when nature puts on a dazzling display of color. From the vibrant reds and oranges of the forests to the golden hues reflecting off coastal sunsets, our state parks offer endless ways to experience the season. Whether you’re hiking beneath waterfalls at Silver Falls, strolling along the beach at Fort Stevens, or taking in panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon’s state parks provide the perfect backdrop for embracing the beauty of fall. Here are some of our favorites:

Silver Falls State Park 

Located near Silverton, Silver Falls is renowned for its series of cascading waterfalls, each framed by towering trees that explode with color in the fall. Hike the Trail of Ten Falls to experience the changing hues surrounding the waterfalls, especially South Falls, which is surrounded by vibrant maple trees. The park’s mix of dense forest and open meadows provides a full spectrum of autumn beauty.

Crown Point State Scenic Corridor 

This iconic overlook along the Columbia River Gorge offers sweeping views of both the river and the surrounding forests, which are ablaze with color in the fall. The famous Vista House, perched atop Crown Point, provides panoramic views of the Gorge’s autumnal landscape. The winding drive up to Crown Point is a journey through golden and red-tinted foliage, making it one of the most scenic drives in Oregon during fall.

Fort Stevens State Park 

This park on the northern Oregon coast is best known for its historic military fort and the wreck of the Peter Iredale ship. In the fall, the woodlands surrounding Fort Stevens glow with shades of yellow and gold, especially among the Sitka spruce and alder trees. As the sun sets over the coast, the sky mirrors these autumnal hues with pinks, oranges, and golds, blending the colors of the sunset with the golden leaves of the alders. This coastal backdrop creates a unique and harmonious scene for enjoying fall colors, whether you’re walking along the beach or exploring the fort’s ruins.

Elijah Bristow State Park 

Situated along the Middle Fork of the Willamette River near Eugene, Elijah Bristow State Park offers serene riverside trails that burst with fall color. Cottonwoods, bigleaf maples, and Oregon ash trees line the riverbanks, their leaves turning brilliant hues of gold and orange. The peacefulness of this park makes it an ideal spot for quiet walks or picnics while soaking in the autumn scenery.

Benson State Recreation Area 

Nestled in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, Benson State Recreation Area is a lesser-known gem for fall color viewing. The park’s dense forested areas are rich with bigleaf maples and vine maples that turn striking shades of orange and yellow. Its peaceful picnic areas and easy access to nearby waterfalls, such as Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls, make it an ideal spot for an autumn day trip.

Tips for visiting in autumn

Fall is one of the best times to explore Oregon’s state parks, as the crowds thin out and the cooler temperatures make hiking more enjoyable. Be sure to dress in layers, as weather can be unpredictable, and bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a challenging hike, or simply a place to enjoy the beauty of the season, Oregon’s state parks offer a perfect backdrop for your fall adventure.

You can help support our state parks

As you enjoy these natural wonders, it’s important to remember that protecting and maintaining these parks ensures they remain accessible for future generations. We’re working to keep our parks accessible and well-funded, so everyone can continue to enjoy their beauty year-round. By learning more and supporting efforts to invest in and maintain these spaces, you can help safeguard the parks we all cherish.