As one of Oregon’s newest state parks, you might not have heard much about Cottonwood Canyon yet. This remote area in Oregon’s high desert region is home to sweeping rock formations, picture-perfect views of the John Day River and miles upon miles of peaceful wilderness. Guaranteed to take your breath away, Cottonwood Canyon is a unique treasure that you’ll definitely want to explore.
Check it out:
Located between Wasco and Condon, Cottonwood Canyon State Park is one of Oregon’s newest and largest parks.
Flickr/Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington
This incredible park boasts amazing cliffs and canyons, spectacular views and a rugged beauty that can only be found in Oregon’s high desert region.
Flickr/Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington
With more than 8,000 acres of land open for exploring, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, stargazing and horseback riding.
Flickr/Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington
The pristine campground offers space for tents and trailers.
YouTube/oregon
One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Pinnacles Trail. This scenic walk starts at the campground and parallels the stunning John Day River.
Flickr/Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington
As you stroll along the gentle 4.3-mile trail, be on the lookout for fascinating rock wall ledges like this one.
Trip Advisor/OregonTrails
The park also offers a glimpse into its ranching and farming past. Visitors can take a self-guided interpretative walk around preserved ranch buildings, including the original cow barn.
Trip Advisor/Seth M
The walk leads past an old tractor, hay baler, livestock loading ramp and more.
Flickr/Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, there’s no better place to visit than this little-known state park.
Trip Advisor/YL1117 To learn more about the history of Cottonwood Canyon, check out this video from YouTube user oregon:
Cottonwood Canyon State Park is open year-round. For fees and driving directions, visit the Oregon State Parks website. If you’re hitting the trails in the summer, be sure to bring plenty of water and watch out for rattlesnakes.
Flickr/Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington
YouTube/oregon
Trip Advisor/OregonTrails
Trip Advisor/Seth M
Trip Advisor/YL1117
To learn more about the history of Cottonwood Canyon, check out this video from YouTube user oregon:
Have you visited Cottonwood Canyon before? Share your thoughts and photos with us below! To see more of Oregon’s beautiful state parks, check out these 15 gorgeous snapshots.
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