Salem, Oregon is the county seat of Marion County and Oregon's capital city. Located in northwestern Oregon, the city was initially founded in 1842. In 1851, it was named the Oregon Territory's capital and officially incorporated in 1857. There are several theories for how the city got its name. Some believe that the community was named after the city of Salem, Massachusetts, while others think the term refers to the Hebrew word "shalom." These days, the city is known as a college town. Willamette University, Corban University, and Chemeketa Community College are all located in the area. As of 2022, Salem has a population of approximately 179,000.
While visiting Salem, you'll want to check out the beautiful Capitol Building, which features impressive architecture and a 121-step spiral staircase to the top. If you're looking for family-friendly attractions, there are some fantastic options around the city. For example, there's the Enchanted Forest Theme Park, which offers plenty to do for both kids and adults. You could also spend an afternoon browsing the Gilbert House Children's Museum or having fun shopping and eating at Salem Center.
Salem is surrounded by natural beauty; if the sun comes out, there are many beautiful ways to have outdoor fun. For example, you could go hiking along the scenic trails of Willamette Mission State Park, ride your bike around Minto-Brown Island Park, or even take a fun ride on Salem's Riverfront Carousel. If you want to learn something new, you could stop by one of Salem's great museums, such as the Deepwood Museum & Gardens, the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, or the Willamette Heritage Center. Alternatively, you could enjoy some live entertainment at the Reed Opera House or the Pentacle Theatre.
Before you're done in Salem, you should check out a couple of the many excellent wineries and vineyards around the city. Cristom Vineyards, Bethel Heights Vineyard, and Honeywood Winery are a few great choices. And if you're in the mood for a delicious dessert, head to the family-owned Willamette Valley Pie Company.
One of the many lovely campgrounds around Salem is the Phoenix RV Park, which has 107 full-hookup RV campsites available for $47.50 per night or $250 per week. The campground, located right in the middle of Salem, features a helpful staff and offers RV repairs and services. In addition, the park offers excellent amenities like a playground, a dog-run area, a fitness center, and more.
Another excellent place to stay in the area is the Hee Hee Illahee RV Resort. You can camp in one of the 139 full-hookup RV campsites, which can be held for $47 per night or $235 per week. However, the campground offers discounts for military personnel, AARP members, tribal members, and several other groups. You'll use the on-site clubhouse with a movie screen, video games, and a kitchen during your stay.
You'll enjoy staying at the Blue Ox RV Park if you want modern comforts. The campground offers 149 full-hookup RV campsites for $37.67 per night or $199.44 per week. Guests can enjoy various amenities, including laundry facilities, a heated pool, an exercise room, a rec area, bike rentals, and even a welcome center with free cocoa and coffee.
Milo McIver State Park is a peaceful and diverse natural recreation area located in northwestern Oregon. If you enjoy water-based recreation, you can spend an afternoon canoeing or fishing in the nearby Clackamas River. Alternatively, if you'd rather stay dry, you can explore one of the many hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails around the park. The park also boasts a lovely picnic area perfect for hosting large get-togethers.
Another beautiful natural area in the region is Paradise Point State Park, which is situated about 15 miles outside of Vancouver, Washington. Due to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, the park is a trendy destination for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. While you're there, you could partake in activities like hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Alternatively, you could enjoy a picnic by the lake and observe the great blue herons and other local wildlife.
Battle Ground Lake State Park is a truly unique natural haven where you'll have the chance to paddle or swim across the crater of an ancient volcano. Located in the lush forests near Battle Ground, Washington, the park is known for its pristine waters, which are perfect for canoeing, fishing, and swimming. If you don't have your boat, you can rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard on-site at the park. There's fun to be had on dry land in the area, too; if you like, you can spend the day exploring scenic hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails.
If you'd like to learn about the history of the fur trade and European settlers in the Pacific Northwest, the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is a great spot to visit. The unique area does an excellent job of preserving the history of the Native Americans, settlers, soldiers, and fur traders who once lived in the region. In addition, the site features a variety of reconstructed forts and exciting exhibits for visitors to explore. While you're there, you'll want to check out the Reconstructed Fort Vancouver, the Vancouver Barracks, and the McLoughlin House.
Lewis and Clark's expedition in the early 19th century is one of the most famous happenings in the history of the United States. And at Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks, you'll have the chance to learn lots of fascinating things about that impactful journey. One of the most incredible aspects of the area is the reconstruction of Fort Clatsop, where Lewis and Clark stayed with the Corps of Discovery. There's also an excellent visitor center, which offers guest lectures and a fascinating film about the Lewis and Clark expedition. Several great nature trails, including the Fort to Sea Trail and the Netul River Trail.
Although much of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is technically located in Alaska, there is one attractive section of it located in Seattle, Washington. When the famous gold rush started, many people left Seattle and other cities in the Pacific Northwest to claim their share of the gold in Alaska. So while you'll have to go to Skagway, Alaska to see most of the park's features, the site in Seattle boasts two floors of unique exhibits to browse.
Along the breathtaking Oregon Coast, you'll find the lush woodlands of Siuslaw National Forest. The tranquil forest is filled with towering dunes, peaceful streams, crystal-clear lakes, and hills as high as 3,000 feet. While visiting the woods, you can hike, fish, camp, and observe the local wildlife, which includes coyotes, skunks, porcupines, black bears, brown bears, white-tailed deer, and many other species. If you go hiking, some of the trails most worth exploring are the Drift Creek Falls Trail and the Summit Loop Trail.
Willamette National Forest is located near the city of Eugene, Oregon and is known for its natural beauty. In addition to the dense trees, visitors will find majestic waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and a variety of peaceful rivers and lakes. Popular activities in the forest include birdwatching, fishing, stargazing, geocaching, and hiking great tracks like the Cone Peak Trail and the Proxy Falls Loop Trail.
Surrounding the mighty, glacier-capped Mount Hood, Mount Hood National Forest encompasses over one million acres of serene trails and wilderness. The vast forest is home to lovely trails, alpine lakes, and the historic Timberline Lodge. During the winter, Mount Hood National Forest becomes one of the state's best destinations for activities like cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. If you visit during the spring or summer, you can hike along a section of the famous Oregon Trail or spend the day fishing. While you're there, you may also want to stop by the Mt. Hood Cultural Center & Museum, where you can learn much more about the beautiful area.
Crater Lake National Park, which is the only national park in Oregon, is known for its incredible namesake lake. The massive reservoir is the country's deepest lake, originally formed by the volcano Mount Mazama nearly 8,000 years ago. Visitors can use the pristine waters for fishing, swimming, scuba diving, and boating. The park also features 90 miles of serene hiking trails and a 33-mile biking trail for those who prefer dry land. If you visit during winter, you can partake in skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.
If you head north into Washington, you can spend a day at the picturesque Mount Rainier National Park. Although the park is most known as the home of Mount Rainier, it also boasts lush old-growth forests, serene lakes, and vibrant fields of wildflowers. If you're a mountaineering enthusiast, you can climb to the summit of the mighty peak, but you'll need a permit and a mountain guide to do so legally. Alternatively, you can hike some of the beautiful surrounding trails or go to the Crystal Mountain resort to enjoy skiing or snowboarding.
Another Washington gem is Olympic National Park, which covers over 900,000 acres of lush temperate forests and towering mountains. Hiking is the most popular activity in the vast park, which boasts many miles of tranquil nature trails. Visitors can also check out some of the 650 fascinating archaeological sites found throughout the area. Olympic National Park features a stretch of gorgeous coastline, providing great kayaking and swimming opportunities. If you keep your eyes open while exploring the park, you may spot a mountain goat, black bear, or other unique wildlife.
When renting an RV in Salem, Oregon, you can expect to pay to pay between $75 and $150 a night. Renting a larger trailer or motorhome can be between $100 and $250 a night. Renting an RV for longer time periods can be much more affordable, it can average less than $60 per day.
What does RVshare Protection cover with my Salem, OR RV rental?RVshare's protection plan standard package covers up to $300,000 in comprehensive and collision coverage based on the value of the RV. It also includes free 24/7 roadside assistance, towing and tire service. For more information on RVshare insurance, click here.
What is included in my Salem, OR RV rental?You should find any amenities that are included with your rental in the listing details. But it never hurts to check in with the owner before you arrive at the RV or have it delivered to ensure you have everything that is needed to have a fun and enjoyable trip!
Can I have my Salem, OR RV rental delivered to a specified location?Many owners on RVshare.com offer delivery, and will even set it up for you at the campsite. Choose the 'Delivery' filter to narrow down your search results to RVs that can be brought to your home or destination. Check the listing details for any information regarding extra fees for delivery, or ask the owner if you are unsure.
