Looking for that perfect camp site while traveling through Southern Oregon? The Associated Press recently ran a story by Statesman Journal writer, Zach Urness, who lines out his pick of the top five campgrounds in the region.
In order from bottom of the list to top, here are the finalists.
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| JohnDahl on wikimedia.org |
5. Bolan Lake Campground: Close to the California border near Cave Junction, Urness describes Bolan Lake with those irresistible words, “little-known destination.” With only 15 sites on a stocked trout lake, and plenty of hiking trails. If you got a sense of heights, rent the Bolan Mountain Lookout on recreation.gov. Come from June to September. Here’s a link to the government website on the campground.
4. Illinois River Canyon: A gut-wrenching road with the name of Illinois River Road is infested with campsites, beaches, and trails. Thrill to wildflowers including the cobra lily, who’d prefer a little flesh for dinner. Start out in Selma, Oregon. For more information, contact the Wild Rivers Ranger District. Come spring to late summer, says Urness.
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| K Comandich on flickr.com |
3. Crater Lake and Diamond Lake. OK, so this listing doesn’t make the “little-known” status, but you may not have heard of the latter, unless you’re a local. Diamond Lake is said to be home to giant-sized trout, while Crater Lake claims Oregon’s only national park. Take a cold dip in the deepest lake in the country there, too. Set your visit from mid-June to September. Crater Lake National Park info here. Or details on Diamond Lake here.
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| Marion Vaden MD, public domain |
2. Applegate Valley: Make the winery tour from Grants Pass to Ruch along Highway 238. Tired out from tasting? Drop anchor at Applegate Reservoir at either Cantrall Buckley or Jackson campgrounds, set alongside the river. Bring fishing poles, boat, or hiking shoes. Plan your trip from May to September. More info from the Star Ranger District.
And top of the list?
1. Rogue River: Zach’s choice of any of the over 200 miles of the river’s venues would put you down in the neighborhood of Merlin and Galice. Fishing, river running, or just water splashing appear to be the order of the day. Top of the list for campgrounds? Indian Mary and Almeda County parks.
See Zach’s complete article here.
