Sometimes a trip into nature is just what you need to get yourself together. Whether you’re into boating, fishing, hiking, bird watching, or just enjoying the fresh air and scenery, there are plenty of state parks near Medford, OR to choose from. So load the family (don’t forget the dog) into your AWD Traverse with your hiking or camping gear, hook up the boat or jet skis, and head into the great outdoors.
Valley of the Rogue State Park
Valley of the Rogue was made famous by the great American author and fisherman Zane Grey, and it’s not hard to figure out why he loved this place so intensely. This little slice of heaven can accommodate anyone, regardless of how you choose to commune with nature. The picnic area is open for a quick visit and there are plenty of options for longer stays including standard campsites, hookups for RVs, and yurts as well where your pet is welcome.
Drop your boat at the dock or spend the day fishing from shore. At the end of the day, grab a hot shower and visit the amphitheater or just sit under the stars around a roaring campfire. There are even spots for group camping so you can bring your friends to share in the experience. The park is open for picnics and camping year-round, but calling ahead for a reservation is highly recommended.
TouVelle State Recreation Site
Looking for a day-use park? TouVelle is just what the doctor ordered. It sits on the banks of the Rogue River, which features steelhead and salmon in season. There are six picnic areas, some with available power and water. Scattered throughout the park are numerous horseshoe pits and volleyball courts to add to the fun. Boaters are welcome as well with the boat dock located across the river on Table Rock Road (please follow posted boating rules).
There is a parking fee of $5 per day to enter the site, which can be purchased inside the park. They also honor the Jackson County Annual Pass.
Crater Lake National Park
Created by the collapse of a volcano over 7,700 years ago, Crater Lake is the deepest fresh-water lake in America and one of the most pristine as well. It sits perched near the top of the Cascade Mountains offering stunning views and evidence of the area’s volcanic history along the 33-mile Rim Drive. Crater Lake National Park is the fifth-oldest park in the US and is Oregon’s only national park.
The park offers a variety of wildlife including the Mazama newt, which is only found at Crater Lake. The endangered bull trout calls the park home as well. Look for bears, porcupines, deer, coyotes, and elk as well as many other species. The many picnic sites and hiking trails are closed in winter due to deep snow, and calling ahead to check on conditions is recommended.
The great outdoors beckons. Visit Airport Chevrolet GMC today to find the Chevy you need to get you, your family, and your gear out into the great wide open.
Image by RÜŞTÜ BOZKUŞ from Pixabay
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