The southernmost part of Oregon is blessed with the state’s number-one attraction: awe-inspiring
Crater Lake National Park. Nestled in the old-growth forest of the Cascade Mountains, the nation’s fifth-oldest national park features crystalline blue waters (pure enough that you can drink them, so refill your water bottles!) formed by a collapsed volcano.
The Scenic Rim Drive is a 33-mile loop that encircles the caldera’s rim, affording views from hiking trails through meadows, past lakes and waterfalls. Mischievous golden-mantled ground squirrels are plentiful, as are mule deer, but lucky wildlife watchers might glimpse elk or black bears. Winter visitors thrill to pristine snowshoe trails. Sprawling over more than 1.6 million acres, the
Willamette National Forest comprises eight wilderness areas. The most popular is the Three Sisters Wilderness, with mountain peaks topping 10,000 feet.
The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, popularized in the movie Wild, challenges long-distance backpackers, but day-use sections captivate in more manageable doses. Summer explodes in a profusion of alpine wildflowers. Many of the state’s best
hot springs are clustered in this region. Options include off-the-grid soaks in dense forests, wellness resorts with vegetarian dining, family-friendly pools, and clothing-optional retreats.
Ashland, just 15 miles over the California border, tops many lists including the best small and art towns in America, and hosts the renowned
Oregon Shakespeare Festival annually from March through October. Galleries, studios, and restaurants unveil new works every month during the lively
First Friday Art Walk. During summer bloom, the
Lavender Trail winds through the gorgeous purple majesty of a half dozen farms and nurseries. Running the
Rogue River rapids, one of just eight designated scenic and wild rivers in the country, is an unforgettable experience. Skilled outfitters will guide you during the season, from May to October. Expect to spy eagles, herons, river otters, and mink.
Stay and play standouts include
Crater Lake RV Park, located on 10 generously forested acres. It offers 57 widely spaced sites to suit even the biggest rigs, with private fire pits available. The pet-friendly, Ashland-convenient
Southern Oregon RV Park features full hookups, and standard and premium sites for the largest of rigs. It connects to the Bear Creek Greenway.