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Oregon State Parks

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Southern Region
Illinois River Forks State Park
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ILLINOIS RIVER FORKS STATE PARK
ILLINOIS RIVER FORKS STATE PARK
Cave Junction, Oregon   97523
(lat:42.1573 lon:-123.663) map location

Phone: 800-551-6949
Heading to or from the Oregon coast or the giant redwoods on Hwy. 199, you may want to stop for a picnic at this day-use park. Located at the confluence of the east and west forks of the Illinois River, the park offers picnic tables and restrooms. There is a short walking trail near the picnic area. The Illinois Valley is a unique geologic area with many rare plants. Visit here to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
History of the Area
Located in the southwestern part of Oregon, near Cave Junction and Kerby, this park is situated at the confluence of East Fork Illinois River and West Fork Illinois River. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as Takelma Indians who used it for fishing.

In 1975, a local resident named Almeda Bradshaw donated around 61 acres to Josephine County with an intention that it would be developed into a public space. This land donation formed what we now know today as one among many beautiful state parks in Oregon.

The county maintained control over the property until financial difficulties led them to consider selling off parts of their parkland holdings during late-1990s recession period. However, due to strong opposition from community members against these plans - including protests and legal actions - they decided not sell any portion but instead transferred ownership entirely over to State Parks Department on July 1st ,2002 .

Since then significant improvements have been made within its boundaries like trail development or picnic facilities installation etc., making it more accessible & enjoyable place for visitors coming here every year.

Boating
The park, located in Oregon, offers a variety of boating options for visitors. The Illinois River is popular among rafters and kayakers due to its challenging rapids which are suitable for experienced individuals. Canoeing can also be enjoyed on the calmer sections of the river by beginners or those seeking a more relaxed experience. Fishing boats may also find it an ideal spot as fishing is permitted within certain areas along the riverbanks.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing in a serene setting, with options for both bank and boat fishing. The river is home to various species including steelhead trout, coho salmon, cutthroat trout and smallmouth bass. Fly-fishing enthusiasts will also find ample opportunities here.


Location
Illinois River Forks State Park is

Picnicking
Illinois River Forks State Park offers picnic tables and grills, perfect for family outings. No covered shelters are available.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
July 5 Great place to ride! by LFE
park review stars; one to five The Forks is a great place to horseback ride. The trails are nice with some sun and some shade. Enjoy my rides alot there. Trails could be marked a little bit better, but otherwise, kudos to all who worked so hard creating the trail system!!!
December 20 Needs some trail development. by Whiteyward
park review stars; one to five The Park does not provide enough good trails to enjoy all the river frontage. There is no trail back towards the Hwy overpass. No trail from the over pass into the park along the river, and the dead and burned trees should be knocked down for safety and to open up a large portion of the park. Auto access to the River area should be either eliminated or improved but the access now is a hazard to vehicles. The new pavilion is just wonderful but needs tables and a fire pit. The present lawn care and policing is minimal but seems to keep up in the off season. I just want the park to bring in a tractor and plow in a trail from the river overpass to the parking area along the N ForK. The water front is completely overgrown and the park has very little access to either fork. I recomend opening up access along both forks with brush clearing, Hack and stack, and tractor work. Knock down the big dead snags for safety and provide a real trail that connects both forks of the river.
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Directions
1. Start by heading south on I:5 and take Exit 55 toward OR-199/Cave Junction.
2. Merge onto Redwood Highway (OR:199) and continue for approximately 50 miles.
3. Once you reach Cave Junction, turn left onto Caves Highway (OR:46).
4. Follow OR:46 for about 8 miles until you see signs indicating Illinois River Road/Grants Pass.
5. Turn right onto Illinois River Road and drive along this scenic route for around 16 miles.

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Oregon
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Oregon State Parks

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