A Picturesque Oregon Town Nestled Among Mountains Offers Stunning Caves and Scenic Vistas

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A Picturesque Oregon Town Nestled Among Mountains Offers Stunning Caves and Scenic Vistas

When you really think about it, Oregon has plenty to envy. From unspoiled coastline to high desert to snow-capped volcanoes, it’s a state that seemingly has it all. While some visitors may be tempted to just spend most of their time up north exploring the amazing restaurants and cafes of Portland, hiking into hidden hot springs, or relaxing at this perfect spot on the Columbia River, Southern Oregon also boasts an array of gems, including the cool little town of Cave Junction.



Situated just a stone’s throw from the California border in the rugged Siskiyou Range, Cave Junction is Oregon at its most charming. This tight-knit community of just over 2,000 people is awash in small-town vibes among surroundings that can only be described as a natural playground. As its name also suggests, it’s also the gateway to the Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve, a treasure trove of geological wonder that has been attracting visitors for over a century.

Cave Junction is a convenient base to experience nature

Inside a marble hall at Oregon Caves National Monument



Experience the untamed enchantment of the Siskiyous

A group of men navigate intense whitwater river rapids in a raft

The real reason for making the trip to Cave Junction is to experience the natural splendor of the wild country that surrounds it. The pristine Illinois River runs through a gorgeous valley and is considered one of the most untouched rivers in the American West due to the lack of roads (and dams) in the area. While many anglers come to the Illinois in hopes of hooking into a wild salmon or steelhead, the river’s multitude of rapids make it a world-class whitewater rafting run, with several local outfitters offering multi-day excursions.



For lovers of flora, the Rough and Ready Botanical Wayside is a terrific place to spot wildflowers and other diverse plant life. This nature preserve is made up of a 19-acre Oregon State Park, a 1,164-acre BLM Area of Critical Environmental Concern, and a 1,560-acre US Forest Service Botanical Area. The wayside is served by a well-maintained path that offers striking views of the surrounding mountains and forests, making it the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the medicine that only pure nature can deliver.

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One of the reasons that Cave Junction and the region that surrounds it has been able to maintain its myriad charms is because of its relative remoteness. The nearest international airport is Portland, Oregon (PDX), which is a four-and-a-half-hour drive. You can also reach the town by flying into Sacramento, California, and heading north for six hours. Either way, it takes a while to get there, which means anyone who makes the trip will be amply rewarded. While you’re in southern Oregon, why not check out the deepest lake in the United States?

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.