Oregon State Parks will close multiple sites for upgrades, construction

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — In the coming months, a number of Oregon State Parks will fully or partially close to the public while construction crews renovate the areas.

The agency reported on Wednesday that General Obligation bonds have funded the state’s $50 million investment in nine outdoor areas. Five of the improvement projects begin this year.

Milo McIver, Silver Falls and Bullards Beach state parks are all slated to close on Monday, Sept. 16.

Milo McIver’s campground, group camps and hiking and biking areas aren’t expected to open until March 2025 due to restroom improvements and repaving. The park’s day-use areas will remain open.

Over at Bullards Beach, officials will close the entire campground — except the horse camp — through March 17 to upgrade the main sewer line and lift station. Visitors can still stop by the day-use area, although there will be some disruptions.

Silver Falls State Park’s campground will also close through June 30, with the exception of the first 10 cabins. OSP said crews will replace the B-Loop restroom, repave the A Loop, and add a new campground and visitor center. People can still visit other parks facilities including trails and the South Falls Lodge.

Later on Nov. 1, the entirety of Nehalem Bay State Park will close through June 30, 2025 as crews install new water lines and electrical lines. They will also construct restroom and shower buildings, along with renovating nine campsites and repaving the park entry road.

Fort Stevens is expected to close campground loops L, M, N, O and C, and cabins, yurts and the South Lake restroom sometime later this fall or early winter. OSP plans to improve the historic Guardhouse water systems and electrical infrastructure, and repave roads. The park will additionally see a new restroom, although the other campsites and day-use areas will still be open for visitors.

According to the state parks department, the closure dates are subject to change.

“We thank visitors for their patience and continued support as we work to repair aging infrastructure and improve facilities at several state parks,” OSP Director Lisa Sumption said. “We’re grateful for the Legislature’s investment in GO Bonds. This commitment to our state park system will benefit future visitors and the economy.”