Hilgard Junction State Park ~ Oregon

When touring the northwest, it does not take long to figure out that the best destinations are found in the deep forests. This is especially true if a river runs by and there is plenty of water flowing through the mountains in this neck of the woods. Camping and fishing are summer season pastimes and when both can be done in one spot the result will be enjoying some lazy relaxing afternoons. Not everybody seeks a world of adventure while on vacation, especially when rest and relaxation is what the doctor ordered. For this reason it is best to make note of the cozy camping spots near fishing holes when planning a tour of the Northwest and there sure are a lot to choose from in Oregon! 

While touring Oregon, I camped in a few state recreation areas and state parks. What most of them had in common was a lake or river that offered good fishing. Some only required walking a few yards to get from the campsite to the water, which is mighty appealing when taking it easy is all that matters. All it takes is purchasing an Oregon Fishing license and becoming familiar with the regulations to get the rest and relaxation plan in motion! 

A good example of an Oregan destination that offers relaxing riverside camping is Hilgard Junction State Park. This State Park parallels a short section of the Grande Ronde River and there are plenty of shade trees along the banks. Hilgard Junction State Park is actually located next to Interstate Highway 84, yet because this is a fly-by traffic area, this park is rarely crowded. The town of La Grande is just a few miles east on Highway 84 and supplies or modern amenities can be found there.

Hilgard Junction State Park is both a day use area and a campground, so this is a cozy spot to do a picnic too. The campground offers full facilities and RV pads. There is even some horseshoe pits and an Oregon Trail Interpretive Site is located on the grounds. Best of all, the Grande Ronde River is famous for fly fishing and it is easy to put some dinner on the table. The camping fees for Oregon State Parks are still a bargain, so this is all the inspiration needed for checking out Hilgard Junction State Park when touring central Oregon!