Small Town Charm and Underground Caves Draw Visitors to This Oregonian Destination

Less than an hour shy of the California border sits Cave Junction, a rural hamlet with less than 2,100 residents. The small town is a 27-minute drive to the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve, a system of underground passageways set inside the Siskiyou Mountain Range. Discovered in 1874 by Elijah Davidson while hunting with his dog Bruno, the caves stretch three miles long and were designated a national monument by President Taft in 1909. The 4,554-acre park offers tours by reservation only and is a big draw for visitors. The caves are unique because of the existence of marble within the composition. According to the Travel Medford website, the caves formed from limestone rocks that transformed into marble during the creation of the Klamath and Siskiyous Mountains. The caves are believed to be several million years old. Today people from all over are able to witness this geological phenomenon. Here’s a list of where to stay, play, and dine.

Out N’ About Treehouse treesort credit Out N’ About Treehouse

Where to Stay

Adults and kids will be wowed by Out’n’About Treehouse Treesort, where guests can stay in any of the 18 treehouse options. Each of the treehouses are uniquely designed and intentionally crafted with sustainability as a major consideration. The “forestree” house sits 35 feet above ground and is a cozy space. It offers a queen bed, bunk beds and a Murphy-style cot along with a minifridge. There’s a toilet and sink, partitioned with a curtain. The property has communal bathrooms on the ground. Other treehouses have their own full bathrooms such as the “pleasantree”, which also has a nice viewing deck. Both are accessed by ascending three flights of stairs and crossing suspension bridges. It makes for a fun adventure, as long as you’re not wary of heights. Even if you are, the treesort has accommodations that are only 12 feet off ground level. 

This forested haven has seven swinging bridges, four ladders, along with a rope course, horseback riding, ziplining, and rafting. Daily breakfast is served, featuring fresh organic ingredients from local farms and businesses. Sit back and enjoy your meal as you enjoy the views and listen to the sounds of nature.

The Sasquatch Loft – Seating Area credit VACASA

The Sasquatch Loft – Bedroom credit VACASA

If the idea of heights isn’t appealing to you, check out this Vacasa rental, The Sasquatch Loft, which offers all the comforts of home in a cozy space. The open floor plan with solid wood floors includes a king bed, a kitchenette, comfortable sitting areas with a loft and two additional beds. There’s a washer and dryer for added convenience. The location can’t be beat as it’s close to nearby restaurants and the Oregon Caves.

What to Do

No visit is complete without seeing the Oregon Caves National Monument. Visitors can book a 90-minute tour, which is by a park ranger, who will provide facts about wildlife, geology, and the history of the caves. It’s an awe-inspiring experience as you weave and meander through these caverns. It’s important to note, however, this experience is not suitable for everyone. During the tour, there are over 500 steps to take, along with steep staircases to climb, and low ceilings, which will require some physical dexterity. The park offers camping at Cave Creek, with 17 spots available on a first-come basis with a fee of $10.

It’s a BURL Gallery, credit respectively

About a five minute drive from the national monument is It’s a Burl Gallery, featuring woodwork and unique pieces of art that make good souvenirs and gifts. Make plans for a stop at Foris Vineyards, a family-owned winery that’s been operating for 40 years. Today they boast about 135 acres of estate vineyards and specialize in pinot noir, pinot gris, and chardonnay among many others.

Foris Vineyard credit Foris Vineyard

Foris Vineyard credit Foris Vineyard

Visit Illinois River Forks State Park for a pleasant outdoor stroll. The park is also home to an extensive disc golf course. Westside Trails Loop is a moderate 2.3-mile hike with an elevation gain of 311 feet.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods is a 50-minute drive and located in California, but worth the visit. The 10,000-acre state park is home to seven percent of the world’s old-growth redwoods and plenty of hiking trails.

Where to Dine 

Stop by Taylor Sausage Country Store where they’ve been making sausage items since 1924. Pick up a fine selection of jerky, salami sticks, and Landjaegers or visit for dinner and live music performances Fridays from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Dinners are savory, with plates of house made breads, steaks, pork chops, and hot dogs. Another excellent dining choice is Rosie’s Inferno Wood Fired Pizza, which is a food truck serving up authentic Italian pizzas. With plenty of toppings to choose from, you’ll find deliciousness in every bite. Bruno’s Cavern serves pub fare along with a good alcohol selection. The menu has a variety of choices ranging from salads to burgers and other sandwiches. Happy Hour runs from Monday through Thursday from 5-7 p.m.