Oregon: Recreation Abounds Despite Drought

Columbia River Gorge | I-5 Exit Guide

Travel Oregon, in partnership with Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department, the Oregon Marine Board, the Oregon Department of Forestry, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of State Lands, wants to remind Oregonians and visitors: Recreation abounds throughout the state, whether water-based recreation or otherwise.

“I encourage Oregonians and our visitors to get out and enjoy all that our state has to offer,” said Governor Kate Brown. “While we enjoy the arrival of summer, we all must remain vigilant in these dry months to keep Oregon’s stunning landscapes verdant and scenic.”

While experiencing the state’s abundant recreational activities, it’s important to keep fire suppression tips in mind and conserve as much water as possible. Oregonians and visitors are also encouraged to be aware of boating hazards in lakes and reservoirs and to respect the fragile environment of lake beds.

To check current conditions prior to embarking on fishing, boating, hiking, biking or camping adventures, and for information on the drought, including reservoir levels, recreational opportunities and fire restriction maps, go to drought.oregon.gov.

Despite the drought, most waterways are open for recreational use, with many lakes and reservoirs offering year-round docks for use in low-water situations. If waterways aren’t usable for recreation, there are likely nearby alternatives. While some limited water recreation is affected by the drought, recreation opportunities not dependent on water-levels are abundant throughout the state. For recreational ideas on how to spend the summer, go to TravelOregon.com/Trip-Ideas.

“Oregon has always led the way as one of the country’s preeminent outdoor recreation locations. This year is no exception,” said Todd Davidson, Travel Oregon CEO. “From wind surfing in the Columbia River Gorge to riding one of the state’s Scenic Bikeways to dropping a line in some of the best fishing waters in the country, Oregon has everything for the outdoor enthusiast to enjoy during any type of weather conditions.”

The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, works to enhance visitors’ experience by providing information, resources and trip planning tools that inspire travel and consistently convey the exceptional quality of Oregon. The commission improves Oregonians’ quality of life by strengthening economic impacts of the state’s $10.3 billion tourism industry that employs more than 101,000 Oregonians. www.TravelOregon.com


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