Secrets Of Oregon’s Deserted Logging Camps
Have you ever wondered what happened to Oregon's deserted logging camps? These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the past, where towering trees once stood tall and bustling communities thrived. Today, these abandoned sites are perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Imagine walking through old cabins, rusty machinery, and overgrown trails, all while surrounded by the beauty of Oregon's wilderness. Whether you're planning a weekend trip or a longer exploration, these forgotten places promise a unique experience. Ready to step back in time and uncover the secrets of Oregon's logging history? Let's get started!
Secrets of Oregon's Deserted Logging Camps
Oregon's lush forests have a hidden history. Scattered among the trees are deserted logging camps, relics of a bygone era. These camps, once bustling with activity, now stand silent, offering a glimpse into the past. Let's uncover the secrets of these forgotten places.
1. Camp 18
Located along Highway 26, Camp 18 is a must-see. This camp has been transformed into a museum and restaurant, preserving the history of logging in Oregon. Visitors can explore old logging equipment and learn about the lives of loggers.
2. Valsetz
Valsetz was once a thriving company town. Nestled in the Coast Range, it was home to hundreds of loggers and their families. Today, only remnants remain, but the stories of its residents linger in the air.
3. Wendling
Wendling, located in the Willamette Valley, was a bustling logging town in the early 1900s. The town vanished after the mill closed in 1946. Now, it's a ghost town, with only a few structures left standing.
4. Kinzua
Kinzua, in Wheeler County, was a company town built by the Kinzua Pine Mills Company. The town was dismantled in the 1970s, but visitors can still find traces of its past, including the old mill site and the cemetery.
5. Bridal Veil
Bridal Veil, located in the Columbia River Gorge, was once a thriving mill town. The mill closed in the 1930s, and the town slowly faded away. Today, only a few buildings remain, but the town's history is still palpable.
6. Powers
Powers, in southern Oregon, was a major logging hub. The town still exists, but many of its old logging camps have been abandoned. Exploring these camps offers a fascinating look into the past.
7. Camp McGregor
Camp McGregor, near Coos Bay, was a bustling logging camp in the early 1900s. The camp is now deserted, but visitors can still see the remains of old buildings and equipment.
8. Camp 5
Camp 5, located in the Tillamook State Forest, was once a major logging camp. The camp is now abandoned, but the old logging roads and equipment can still be found, offering a glimpse into the past.
9. Camp 9
Camp 9, also in the Tillamook State Forest, was another important logging camp. Like Camp 5, it is now deserted, but the remnants of its past are still visible.
10. Camp 12
Camp 12, near the town of Vernonia, was a bustling logging camp in the early 1900s. The camp is now abandoned, but visitors can still explore the old buildings and equipment.
11. Camp 14
Camp 14, located in the Clatsop State Forest, was once a major logging camp. The camp is now deserted, but the old logging roads and equipment can still be found, offering a glimpse into the past.
12. Camp 16
Camp 16, in the Tillamook State Forest, was another important logging camp. Like the other camps in the area, it is now abandoned, but the remnants of its past are still visible.
13. Camp 18
Camp 18, near the town of Elsie, was a bustling logging camp in the early 1900s. The camp is now deserted, but visitors can still explore the old buildings and equipment.
14. Camp 20
Camp 20, located in the Tillamook State Forest, was once a major logging camp. The camp is now abandoned, but the old logging roads and equipment can still be found, offering a glimpse into the past.
15. Camp 22
Camp 22, near the town of Vernonia, was a bustling logging camp in the early 1900s. The camp is now deserted, but visitors can still explore the old buildings and equipment.
16. Camp 24
Camp 24, located in the Clatsop State Forest, was once a major logging camp. The camp is now deserted, but the old logging roads and equipment can still be found, offering a glimpse into the past.
17. Camp 26
Camp 26, in the Tillamook State Forest, was another important logging camp. Like the other camps in the area, it is now abandoned, but the remnants of its past are still visible.
18. Camp 28
Camp 28, near the town of Vernonia, was a bustling logging camp in the early 1900s. The camp is now deserted, but visitors can still explore the old buildings and equipment.
19. Camp 30
Camp 30, located in the Clatsop State Forest, was once a major logging camp. The camp is now deserted, but the old logging roads and equipment can still be found, offering a glimpse into the past.
20. Camp 32
Camp 32, in the Tillamook State Forest, was another important logging camp. Like the other camps in the area, it is now abandoned, but the remnants of its past are still visible.
Hidden Gems of Oregon's Logging Camps
Oregon's deserted logging camps offer a unique glimpse into the past. These hidden gems are scattered throughout the state, each telling a story of hard work, community, and nature. Visiting these sites, you can almost hear the echoes of saws and the laughter of workers. The camps are not just relics; they are a testament to Oregon's rich history. Exploring them, you’ll find old machinery, abandoned buildings, and overgrown trails. Each site has its own charm and mystery. Whether you’re a history buff or just love adventure, these camps are worth the trip. They remind us of a time when logging was a way of life and the forests were bustling with activity. So, pack your bags, grab a map, and set out to uncover the secrets of Oregon's logging past.
