An Underrated City In Oregon's Coast Range Foothills Offers Cozy Camping And Peaceful Vineyards

Oregon is well known for its wild coastline as well as captivating cities like Portland, Salem, and Eugene, which entice visitors from across the country. However, if you are keen to step off the beaten path, Oregon has plenty of underrated options to choose from, including the small city of Sheridan, which is an overlooked destination ideal for camping adventures.

Located at the foothills of the Northern Oregon Coast Range, just 56 miles southwest of Portland, Sheridan boasts a small-town vibe, stunning natural surroundings, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. If that wasn't enough, Sheridan, which has a small population of around 6,000 people, has plenty of peaceful vineyards on its doorstep, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts. Believe it or not, Oregon is no stranger to wine production, and Sheridan is a stone's throw from the state's premier wine region, which is just as scenic as Napa Valley, but without the crowds. 

Getting to Sheridan is easy and efficient, especially if you opt for a rental car for the duration of your stay, and visitors can do this at Portland International Airport, just a 1.5-hour drive from Sheridan. Alternatively, given the variety of excellent RV parks, visitors can easily access Sheridan from Interstate 5 if traveling in their own vacation home on wheels, and given that the scenic drive between Eugene and Portland is a regional highlight, this could be a great option. 

Thanks to Sheridan's beautiful location, cozy camping options are endless, whether you prefer to enjoy the luxury of glamping, park your RV for a few days in nature, or pitch a tent the old-fashioned way. If you fancy something truly spectacular while in the region, you need to visit Oregon's Tipi Village, which is a perfect getaway with zen vibes, 95 miles south of Sheridan. Regardless of your camping preferences, both Hipcamp and Goodsam have plenty of stunning spots, including unique cabins, riverside campsites, and even a farm yurt that welcomes pets and perfectly combines family-friendly and romantic vibes.

Chances are, if you are off on a camping adventure, you will want to explore the natural surroundings that make Sheridan so special, and there are endless choices. In the heart of the city, visitors can access Sheridan City Park, brimming with recreational opportunities, ideal for families, as well as the Yamhill River Greenway, which has scenic trails along the water to enjoy. While camping and adventure are abundant in and around Sheridan, so too are the peaceful vineyards, which complement any vacation. Trying the local wine is a must when visiting Oregon, and some local wineries include Maysara Winery, Coeur De Terre Vineyard, and Domaine Serene Winery, as well as the nearby city of Carlton, which has plenty of great wineries that aren't too far from Sheridan proper.

Oregon is filled with outdoor adventures, including an iconic alpine lake brimming with camping, trails, and views, so it is essential to visit at the right time of the year to enjoy it all. The same goes for Sheridan, a quaint city that truly comes alive in summer. May to September is the ideal time to visit Sheridan for pleasant temperatures and comfortable weather to enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, walking, or biking. Regarding wine tasting, this is an excellent time to do wine tours throughout the Willamette Valley, which has over 500 wineries to choose from and is well known for its pinot noir varieties. 

Not only is summer a perfect time for camping and exploring the outdoors, but it is also a time to enjoy local festivities like parades, games, and live entertainment, and mingle with the locals. Sheridan is a city with a rich history and culture, and this is celebrated during the Sheridan Days festival, which is held annually. Given Sheridan's proximity to the stunning Oregon coastline, you may want to allow some time to soak up the sun on the nearby beaches or enjoy a coastal walk (just 45 minutes away!), which can be best enjoyed in the warmer months. With that being said, Sheridan does experience mild winters, which could be a great option if you want to escape the summer crowds and enjoy some downtime in nature. Just be sure to bring a raincoat.