The Coast
Oregon State Parks
The Locals’ Tips: Drift Creek Falls Trail. Fee: Northwest Forest Pass Spot’s own Michelle Blake and her sister take their dogs to this popular spot tucked into the forest just inland from Lincoln City. Trails are well maintained and heavily traveled by people and dogs. Hike downhill on your way in, crossing a beautiful suspension bridge and getting glimpses of waterfalls. Hike uphill on the way out, staying cool year-round in the dense shade of the forest. Safety tip: Keep your pup on a leash, and don’t leave valuables in your car.
South Beach State Park: It’s like dog-city at this campground just south of Newport, featuring 14 pet-friendly yurts — more than any other state campground. We also like it for its proximity to pet-friendly Gleneden Beach nearby. Because what dog doesn’t love to run free on the beach? (Just make sure they’re reliable at recall). Tugman State Park: For a less crowded camping experience, travel south to Reedsport. Located on peaceful Eel Lake, the campground features 8 pet-friendly yurts and an off-leash dog area. Do like the locals and find a dogfriendly swimming hole along the North Eel Lake and South Eel Lake trails. Molalla River State Park: This day-use park at the confluence of the Willamette, Molalla and Pudding Rivers feels so peaceful, you’ll never guess you’re just outside the city. Your pup can romp in the large, grassy unfenced offleash area, or take a hike together on the easy 2-mile out-and-back trail that follows the Willamette River and farmland. Stub Stewart State Park: Muddy pups are happy pups, and dogs are sure to find some good mud while exploring more than 30 miles of trails and two off-leash dog areas (one fenced) at this popular campground west of Portland. You can clean up at the convenient rinse station, and stay the night in one of three pet-friendly cabins. (Be sure to watch for mountain bikes and horses on the trails.) Willamette Mission State Park: An unfenced off-leash dog area and tons of trails make for a dog-centric day-trip north of Salem. (Note that you’ll share the trails with horses and mountain bikes here as well.) LaPine State Park: This unpretentious campground south of Bend, featuring five pet-friendly cabins, makes a great home base for exploring Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Dogs can run free in a fenced off-leash area or hike with you on 13+ miles of dog-friendly trails, including the 3.5-mile Deschutes Loop that follows the river (watch for mountain bikes).
Keep me leashed. Keep me safe.
bit.ly/pawsitiveORparks Spot Magazine | spotmagazine.net | 19
