It is time to leave California and head to Oregon. Excitingly, this will add a new state to my state list! Although, the sign leaves a bit to be desired. (Notice, the handwritten “Go Home”.) Apparently, they are not too keen on tourists. Made me appreciate the Pure Michigan signage and campaign.
Another astonishing aspect of Oregon, is the minute I crossed the state line, there were ancient RV’s permanently parked in just about any spot that did not have a sign forbidding camping, and the number of begging homeless people skyrocketed. I’m not sure if Oregon does not take care of their homeless, or if California just keeps theirs off the beaches. In any event, they are pretty much on every street corner with their cardboard signs.
Another odd thing, is that the police literally patrolled the state park campground driving around the park during the night. And, although you would not think this would be necessary, there are signs all over the place telling people to lock up and keep their valuables out of sight. I have to confess, it made me a bit uncomfortable that I was in some crime ridden area.
Harris Beach State Park
This campground is just a little ways from the California border and it is a beauty! It does not come out well in the pictures, but the water is more of a turquoise color similar to Lake Michigan out in the middle on a sunny day. California has a much deeper blue to it’s water color. I’m guessing it has to do with sand versus rock and/or depth of the water.
I also found the retirees! Oregon’s roads are not as curvy as California, and the campgrounds accommodate the big rigs.
Samuel H Boardman Scenic Drive
Heading north from Harris Beach, there is a twelve mile scenic drive through the forest and along the shoreline. There are many different pull outs for views, or for just playing at the beach. Here are a few of the pictures I took along the way.
Cape Blanco State Park
A mere 64 miles north of Harris Beach, is this beautiful park but in a very different setting. The southern part of Oregon had more rocks along the coast, but the further north we went the more like Lake Michigan beaches the area became.
Super. More gorgeous photos. Absolutely super. My favorite is you and your wonderful companion
Ah, thanks, Chris! Glad you are enjoying the journey with us!
Yes Karen, I agree with Angela, beautiful photos! Some of the pictures really do look like Michigan. Scary about the homeless situation! Stay alert! The ‘Welcome to Oregon’ sign was definitely pathetic! Loving seeing Oregon thru your pictures.
Thanks, Sue! I will do my best to stay safe. Dottie is a good guard dog! 🙂
Beautiful photos, Karen. Very sad about the homeless situation in Oregon. I noticed it when I was in Portland way back in 1989. Sorry to hear it hasn’t improved any. Take care and be safe. And thank you so much for taking us along for the ride. It truly is the trip of a lifetime.
Thanks, Angela! It is sad to see the homelessness. I’ve been learning a lot being in the campgrounds. There are some people who live in their cars now and use the campgrounds as their homebase (bathrooms/showers) until they hit the max number of days they can stay, and then they move on.
Glad you are enjoying the trip! I will be heading into your home country tomorrow! I’m very excited as we turn ourselves to the Alcan and the beauty along the way!