The best camping near Elijah Bristow State Park

While camping isn’t allowed at Elijah Bristow State Park, this 847-acre expanse on the Middle Fork of the Willamette River is certainly worth a day trip, particularly if you’re fond of hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, or fishing. The park sits just south of Eugene and adjacent to Dexter State Recreation Site, boasting 10 miles of trails that weave through the forest and along rivers and wetlands. It’s a great spot to see wildlife, and while birds (including gargantuan great blue herons) are the main draw, expect to see beavers, nutria, and even western pond turtles as well.

Open year-round, Elijah Bristow State Park is at its most popular in July and August, owing to school holidays and warm weather. For fewer crowds—and a higher chance of rain—consider visiting in May or June. While birds can be found year-round, September through March are ideal for birdwatching, as many migratory species descend upon the park’s wetlands during the fall and winter migrations.

• Picnic benches are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Three large picnic sites can be booked in advance through the Oregon State Parks website.
• Dogs are welcome, but must remain on leashes, except in the off-leash areas near the main entrance.
• The park features an equestrian staging area with corrals, horse trailer parking, bathrooms, and a wheelchair-accessible mounting ramp.
• The park has three ADA-accessible trails, the longest of which—the Oak Grove Nature Trail—is about one mile long.