Few states are as custom-built for the RV lifestyle as Oregon. One day you are maneuvering through a rainforest of towering, moss-draped Douglas firs, and the next you are waking…
Few states are as custom-built for the RV lifestyle as Oregon. One day you are maneuvering through a rainforest of towering, moss-draped Douglas firs, and the next you are waking up to a desert sunrise reflecting off jagged volcanic cliffs.
Talk to just about anybody who’s explored this country in an RV and they’ll tell you that Oregon is an RVer's paradise. But because the state is so geographically diverse, planning a trip here can feel a bit overwhelming.
To help you map out your route, here are my top five absolute favorite RV destinations and routes in Oregon—complete with insider tips, campground recommendations, and the hard-earned lessons I learned along the way.
1. The Rugged Oregon Coast (Highway 101)
If there is a single "must-drive" route in Oregon, this is it. Hugging the Pacific Ocean, Highway 101 runs the entire length of the state's coastline.
Driving this route requires patience. The roads can be narrow, wind-whipped, and occasionally shrouded in heavy fog. If you are driving a larger rig, pay close attention to pullouts; some of the tight turns on the southern cliffs near Brookings demand your absolute concentration.
- The Highlight: Visiting the shipwreck of the Peter Iredale at Fort Stevens State Park.
- Where to Stay: Fort Stevens State Park (on the northern tip) is massive, boasting over 400 RV sites. If you prefer dramatic sea stacks and tide-pooling, head south to Harris Beach State Park near Brookings.
- Veteran Tip: Always drive Highway 101 from North to South. This keeps your passenger side closest to the ocean, making it much easier to pull off into the scenic viewpoints without crossing oncoming traffic.
2. Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake is a marvel that leaves even the most jaded travelers speechless. Formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama thousands of years ago, this mountaintop lake is the deepest in the United States.
The drive up to the rim is steep but well-paved. However, don’t plan on arriving too early in the season. Because of its high elevation, snow can block the historic Rim Drive well into June—and sometimes even early July.
- The Highlight: Driving the 33-mile Rim Drive (unhitched!) for dizzying views of the impossibly blue water and Wizard Island.
- Where to Stay: Mazama Campground is the only developed campground inside the park that accommodates RVs. It is set in a peaceful lodgepole pine forest. For a backup with great hookups and a fun community vibe, check out Crater Lake Resort in nearby Fort Klamath.
- Veteran Tip: If you are towing a trailer or driving a large rig, unhitch or park your tow vehicle before tackling Rim Drive. The parking lots at the overlooks get incredibly crowded, and maneuvering a 40-foot setup in those spaces is a recipe for a headache.
3. Columbia River Gorge & Hood River
East of Portland, the Columbia River cuts a massive canyon through the Cascade Mountain range. This region is famous for its dramatic waterfalls, windsurfing, and rich agricultural heritage.
Base your rig near the town of Hood River. From here, you can explore the "Fruit Loop"—a 35-mile scenic loop packed with orchards, vineyards, cideries, and farm stands.
- The Highlight: Grabbing a fresh pear turnover from a farm stand with Mount Hood towering directly in front of you.
- Where to Stay: Toll Bridge Park near Parkdale offers a wonderful, rustic camping experience right along the river under towering trees. If you need high-speed internet and full hookups, Bridge RV Park & Campground (just across the river in Washington) is an incredibly convenient staging ground.
- Veteran Tip: Avoid driving your RV on the historic Columbia River Highway. While stunning, it is incredibly narrow with low clearance stone bridges and tight curves designed in the 1910s. Keep your rig on Interstate 84 and use a towed vehicle (dinghy) or toad for exploring the historic highway.
4. Bend & the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
Bend is the undisputed capital of outdoor recreation in Oregon. Situated where the pine forests of the Cascades meet the high desert plateau, this town is paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and craft beer enthusiasts.
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a breathtaking 66-mile drive that starts in Bend and winds past a dozen alpine lakes. It is highly accessible for RVs, though you will want to take your time to admire the views of Mt. Bachelor and the Three Sisters peaks.
- The Highlight: Spending a hot afternoon floating down the Deschutes River right through the middle of downtown Bend.
- Where to Stay: Tumalo State Park offers beautiful, spacious sites along the river with partial and full hookups. If you want a more luxurious resort experience with paved sites and manicured lawns, look up Crown Villa RV Resort.
- Veteran Tip: Bend is highly popular, and campgrounds book up months in advance for the summer season. If you cannot find a spot, look south toward LaPine State Park, which is quieter, cheaper, and only a 30-minute drive away.
5. Smith Rock & the Western Vibe of Sisters
Just north of Bend lies Central Oregon's geological masterpiece: Smith Rock State Park. Towering walls of volcanic ash and basalt rise abruptly out of the desert floor, making it a world-renowned destination for rock climbers.
Combine this stop with a visit to the nearby town of Sisters, which features 1880s-style storefront flat facades, incredibly cozy coffee shops, and a welcoming local community.
- The Highlight: Hiking the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock (it lives up to its name, but the panoramic views of the Cascade range at the top are worth every drop of sweat).
- Where to Stay: Creeside Campground in Sisters is a gem. It is a city-run park situated right along Whychus Creek and is only a five-minute walk from downtown shops and breweries.
- Veteran Tip: Smith Rock gets incredibly hot and crowded in the summer. Arrive at the state park trailheads right at sunrise. Not only will you beat the heat, but the early morning golden hour light hitting the red rocks is spectacular.