The Best “Almost” National Parks in Oregon (That Are Just as Stunning Without the Crowds)
Oregon has only one official national park—Crater Lake—but that doesn’t mean the state is lacking in jaw-dropping, national park-level scenery. In fact, some of Oregon’s best outdoor spots feel just as epic as a national park—without the crowds, high entrance fees, or limited permits.
If you’re looking for stunning landscapes, incredible hikes, and fewer people, check out these “almost” national parks that are just as worthy of a visit.
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1. Smith Rock State Park – Oregon’s Mini Grand Canyon
This otherworldly landscape of towering rock spires and deep canyons looks like something straight out of Arizona—but it’s right in central Oregon.
- Known as the birthplace of U.S. sport climbing, but also great for hiking and photography.
- The Misery Ridge Trail is a short but brutal hike with insane views of Monkey Face rock formation.
- Crowds can get intense on weekends, but come early or visit in the off-season for a more peaceful experience.
Why it’s not a national park: It’s a state park, but honestly, it has the same level of epic scenery as a national park.
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2. Painted Hills – Oregon’s Own Natural Wonder
The Painted Hills are one of the most unique landscapes in the Pacific Northwest, with layers of vibrant red, gold, and black earth that shift in color depending on the sunlight.
- One of the “Seven Wonders of Oregon”, but still shockingly underrated.
- Perfect for short hikes, photography, and jaw-dropping sunset views.
- Part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, which is packed with prehistoric fossils and strange rock formations.
Why it’s not a national park: It’s technically a national monument, but it’s just as stunning (if not cooler) than some national parks.
3. Wallowa Mountains – The Alps of Oregon
Dubbed the “Little Switzerland” of Oregon, the Wallowas are a dream for hikers, backpackers, and mountain lovers.
- Home to glacier-carved peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and tons of wildlife.
- The Wallowa Lake Tramway takes you to a breathtaking viewpoint 8,000 feet up.
- Way fewer crowds than Oregon’s more famous outdoor spots.
Why it’s not a national park: The Wallowas are part of the Eagle Cap Wilderness, but they could easily be Oregon’s version of Glacier National Park.
4. Owyhee Canyonlands – Oregon’s Desert Secret
The Owyhee Canyonlands are one of the most remote and jaw-dropping landscapes in the state, often compared to Utah’s national parks.
- Think deep red canyons, dramatic rock formations, and wild rivers.
- The area is massive, covering over a million acres of untouched wilderness.
- Perfect for off-grid adventures—hiking, rafting, and camping with zero crowds.
Why it’s not a national park: It’s so remote that most people don’t even know it exists, let alone think of it as a national park-worthy destination.
5. Silver Falls State Park – The Waterfall Wonderland
If you love waterfalls, Silver Falls is an absolute must-visit.
- Home to the famous “Trail of Ten Falls”, where you can walk behind multiple massive waterfalls.
- Lush, green, and full of ferns and moss-covered trails—like something out of a fairy tale.
- One of the best places in Oregon for a scenic day hike.
Why it’s not a national park: It’s only a state park, but it has the kind of scenery that would make it a top-tier national park anywhere else.
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