Southern Oregon, An Outdoor Enthusiast's Dream

Rafting on the Rogue River

After living in California for a few years, we decided to head north on Interstate 5 and discover for ourselves everything we had heard about Oregon. Southern Oregon is rich with natural beauty — from snow-capped mountains and dormant volcanoes to evergreen forests, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and rugged coastal waters. It’s truly an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. As we crossed the Siskiyou Mountains along the California-Oregon border, we arrived in Ashland. Known for the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland offers live performances throughout much of the year. In the heart of downtown, Lithia Park features Japanese-style gardens, peaceful water features, playgrounds, hiking trails, and an outdoor concert venue. The town itself is full of charming shops, excellent restaurants, and unique local art. Just a few miles away is Jacksonville, a quaint historic town home to Britt Music & Arts Festival, one of the region’s most beloved outdoor concert venues. Before planning your trip, check their schedule to see if your favorite band will be performing. Jacksonville’s downtown invites visitors to slow down and wander through its boutiques, galleries, and cafes. One of my favorite stops is Artist & Gardner, featuring Todd Lovett's artwork.

About 30 minutes north of Ashland, Grants Pass sits along the scenic Rogue River and is the perfect destination for a rafting adventure. If you’re visiting over Memorial Day weekend, don’t miss the Boatnik festival, featuring boat races, carnival rides, live music, and plenty of great food vendors. Wine lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in Southern Oregon. The Rogue Valley is home to more than 85 wineries and over 50 tasting rooms, giving California wine country some serious competition. If you’re traveling along Interstate 5, consider taking a quick detour at Exit 40 in Gold Hill to visit Del Rio Vineyards. Their tasting room is open daily and offers a relaxing atmosphere and tasty charcuterie. If you’re exploring Jacksonville, Hummingbird Estate is another must-visit tasting room, known for its incredible scenery and welcoming atmosphere.

For those looking to experience Southern Oregon’s striking natural landscapes, the Upper and Lower Table Rock hiking trails are a must. These volcanic plateaus offer breathtaking panoramic views, and during the spring months the hillsides come alive with vibrant wildflowers.

Finally, one of my favorite times to visit Southern Oregon is during the annual Southern Oregon Lavender Festival in June. Family-run lavender farms welcome visitors to wander the fields, cut fresh lavender bouquets, enjoy live music, browse local arts and crafts, and sample delicious food from regional vendors. It’s a beautiful celebration of the season and a wonderful way to experience the charm of Southern Oregon.