Birdwatchers love Oregon for a variety of reasons. There is the diversity of habitats from coastal headlands to lush valleys to alpine meadows to sagebrush flats. The variety of landscapes attracts a wealth of species - around 500 species have been recorded in Oregon. Plus, there are a great number of areas to bird, from National Wildlife Refuges to National Parks to coastal edges and urban woodlands. And when the day afield is done, there are different options to choose from for overnight accomodations that differ from the traditional hotel stay. Here are four possibilities to pursue.
Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild
This website is dedicated to B&Bs throughout Oregon that cater to birders. Most of the homes are in close proximity to National Wildlife Refuges or birding hotspots. The owners know and understand the needs of birders, especially those heading out to listen to the dawn chorus. Rates vary, but for a short stay, these rentals provide a relaxing atmosphere after a day in the field.
Vacation Rental By Owner
Also knows as "vbro," this website provides a listing of homes or condominiums that are available for rent. Scattered across the country, these vacation rentals come fully equipped with bedding and full kitchens, as well as other amenities depending upon the location. These rentals are great for birders because it allows for a flexible schedule that follows the birds - up at dawn for songbirds and, sometimes, out late at night for owls.
Oregon State Parks
Many of Oregon's state parks have overnight accomodations that range from campsites, to yurts, to cabins. The parks are often good places to bird or are located near exceptional birding locations, and are an economical option. The yurts and cabins are popular with birders, campers and travelers, and often fill early in the season. A recommendation is to make on-line reservations as soon as possible after January 1 to get first choice of sites.
Fire Lookout Rentals
The Forest Service has a number of fire lookout towers, guard stations or historic cabins that are now available to rent. These units are a unique option for birders and are often situated in areas with good birding nearby. The amenities and services provided at each site varies, and often there are blackout dates due to use by Forest Service personnel. On the recreation.gov website, select "Cabins and Lookouts" from the drop down menu to search for places to stay.
Oregon Birding Trails
The Oregon Birding Trails represents numerous locations to birdwatch in Oregon. Many birding trails are driving loops with stops along the way. Each stop has a site description and a list of target birds that helps birders who are looking for a particular species. Birders can download the website's maps and descriptions, as well as peruse the region's checklist of species. The network of birding trails covers a great deal of the state and helps get birders out to explore new areas.
Of course, the option for a chain or local hotel exists for birders, but these unique overnight accomodations will put a different light on your birding adventure.
Sources
Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild www.obbg.org
Vacation Rental By Owner www.vbro.com
Oregon State Parks www.oregon.gov/OPRD
Fire Lookout rentals www.recreation.gov
Oregon Birding Trails www.oregonbirdingtrail.com
Damian Fagan - I am a freelance writer and photographer living in the Pacific Northwest, although I lived in Utah for over 20 years. I've written ...
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