The best Oregon parks and sites include the deepest lake in the U.S. and prehistoric fossil beds. The state of Oregon has a little bit of everything – from snow-dusted mountains to the Pacific coastline. However, beyond the state’s varied landscape is a long human history that includes migrations and cross-country expeditions. This history is honored at Oregon national parks and sites, showcasing the beauty and history of Oregon with 111,619 miles of rivers, 296 miles of coastline, and countless lakes. Therefore, if you’re planning a trip to the Beaver State, here are ten of the best national parks and sites in Oregon.

Oregon National Parks

Crater Lake National Park

As Oregon’s only official national park, Crater Lake National Park stands out among the nation’s most cherished landscapes. Its crown jewel, Crater Lake, is the deepest lake in the U.S. Moreover, it boasts one of the most fascinating origin stories – formed when a volcano collapsed, creating a huge crater filled by rain and snow.

Visitors can experience the beauty by taking the Rim Drive around the crater or hopping on a boat to Wizard Island, a remnant cinder cone near the lake’s western edge.

Oregon National Monuments, Trails, Recreation Areas, and Sites

Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve

Known as the “Marble Halls of Oregon,” this network of dark, twisting passages in the Siskiyou Mountains is among the state’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Besides the underground caves, there is a 4,554-acre park offering hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting, including bears, cougars, and bobcats.

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

The Fort Vancouver National Historic Site features four unique sites, each telling a different story. Visitors can gain insight into the area’s fur trading history, the U.S. Army’s Vancouver Barracks, aviation history, and the origin of the Pacific Northwest.

Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail

The national trail recounts the history dating back to the end of the last Ice Age when a burst ice dam flooded the Columbia River, reshaping the Pacific Northwest’s landscape. In Oregon, visitors can explore flood remnants such as Hat Rock and the Tualatin Ice Age Trail.

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Spanning 16 states over nearly 4,900 miles, the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail concludes at the coastline of modern-day Oregon. This historic trail includes significant sites like Netul Landing & River Trail and Les Shirley Park, places integral to the explorers’ journey.

Lewis and Clark National Historic Park

This park features a replica of Fort Clatsop, their winter encampment. It offers visitors a chance to learn about their journey while trekking through an impressive network of trails that showcase Oregon’s stunning coastal views.

Nez Perce National Historical Park

Spanning four states, including Oregon, Nez Perce National Historical Park features 38 sites recounting the story of the Nimíipuu (Nez Perce) people. In Oregon, sites include the Joseph Canyon Viewpoint and the grave site of Chief Joseph.

Oregon National Historic Trail

The Oregon National Historic Trail is vital for understanding the cross-country migration, showcasing wagon ruts and historical sites as it traverses the northern part of the state.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Located at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, visitors can witness over 40 million years of history through vibrant rock formations showcasing ancient ecosystems and climate change.

California National Historic Trail

The California National Historic Trail marks the path of the 1840s and 1850s mass migration. Starting west of Salem, it heads south with significant stops like the Douglas County Museum.