Cave Junction Travel Guide

Explore Cave Junction, a scenic small town in Southern Oregon, with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Cave Junction

Nestled in the heart of the Siskiyou Mountains, Cave Junction is a charming small town situated in Southern Oregon. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, vast wilderness, and stunning vistas, the town is a popular destination among outdoor enthusiasts.

Cave Junction is a great place to unwind, relax, and refresh your mind and soul. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or just want to soak in the serene beauty of nature, Cave Junction has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at the best things to do in Cave Junction, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Cave Junction

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cave Junction has a rich cultural heritage and boasts many museums and historical sites that offer insights into the town’s history and its people. Some of the top cultural attractions include:

  • Oregon Caves National Monument: A true natural wonder, this natural monument features a network of underground caves and tunnels that are a must-see for anyone visiting the town.
  • Kerbyville Museum: This small museum showcases the town’s colorful history, from the gold rush era to the present day.
  • Siskiyou Smokejumper Base Museum: This museum celebrates the heroic smokejumpers who risk their lives to protect the forests surrounding Cave Junction.

Natural Attractions of Cave Junction: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cave Junction is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Here are the top natural attractions that you must visit during your trip:

  • Siskiyou Mountains: The beautiful Siskiyou Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop to Cave Junction and offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to camping and fishing.
  • Illinois River: This river stretches for miles through the lush forests and is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
  • Oregon Caves Chateau: This stunning hotel sits atop a hill and offers spectacular views of the valley below. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of Cave Junction.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cave Junction

Cave Junction is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, especially hikers and bikers. Here are some of the top hiking and biking trails that you must check out:

  • Oregon Caves Trail: This trail leads to the heart of the Oregon Caves National Monument and takes you through rugged terrain and stunning views.
  • Illinois River Trail: This 26-mile trail offers breathtaking views of the Illinois River and the surrounding mountains. It’s a must-do for experienced hikers.
  • Kalmiopsis Wilderness Trails: This network of trails offers a variety of experiences, from easy hikes to challenging multi-day treks.

Best Things to Do in Cave Junction: Activities and Tours

From thrilling outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, here are some of the best things to do and tours to take in Cave Junction:

  • Rafting on the Rogue River: This exciting tour takes you down the rapids of the beautiful Rogue River and is a perfect adventure for thrill-seekers.
  • Oregon Caves Hiking Tour: This guided tour takes you on a beautiful and informative hike through the Oregon Caves National Monument.
  • Siskiyou Smokejumper Tour: This tour takes you through the Siskiyou Smokejumper Base Museum and gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the heroic smokejumpers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cave Junction

If you’re planning to spend a week in Cave Junction, here’s a suggested itinerary that covers all the top attractions and experiences:

  • Day 1-2: Explore the Oregon Caves National Monument and go on a guided tour of the caves.
  • Day 3-4: Hike or bike the Illinois River Trail and explore the stunning beauty of the river and the surrounding mountains.
  • Day 5-6: Visit the cultural attractions, such as the Kerbyville Museum and the Siskiyou Smokejumper Base Museum.
  • Day 7: Relax at the Oregon Caves Chateau and take in the stunning views of the valley.

Food and Drink Scene of Cave Junction

Cave Junction has a unique food and drink scene that reflects the town’s culture and history. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Southern Oregon Sourdough Bread: This locally made bread is a staple of the cuisine in Cave Junction and is a must-try for anyone visiting the town.
  • Ling Cod: Caught fresh from the nearby Pacific Ocean, Ling Cod is a delicious seafood dish that is a must-try for seafood lovers.
  • Oregon Grass-Fed Beef: This locally sourced beef is a favorite of carnivores and is served in many of the town’s restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Cave Junction Wine: This delicious wine is made from locally grown grapes and is a perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
  • Siskiyou Mountain Coffee: This locally roasted coffee is a favorite of caffeine addicts and is served in many of the town’s coffee shops.

Where to Stay in Cave Junction: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cave Junction has many accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to consider:

  • Oregon Caves Chateau: This stunning hotel is a popular choice among visitors and offers breathtaking views of the valley.
  • The Lodge at Riverside: Located on the banks of the Rogue River, this cozy lodge offers a comfortable and relaxing stay in Cave Junction.
  • Green Springs Inn & Cabins: This picturesque inn is located in the heart of the Siskiyou Mountains and offers a peaceful and rejuvenating stay.

What to Buy in Cave Junction: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cave Junction offers many unique souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for friends and family back home. Here are some of the top souvenirs and local products to consider:

  • Oregon Caves Souvenirs: You can’t visit Cave Junction without bringing back a souvenir from the stunning Oregon Caves National Monument.
  • Siskiyou Mountains Artwork: Local artists create beautiful artwork that reflects the stunning beauty of the Siskiyou Mountains and the Oregon wilderness.
  • Southern Oregon Honey: This delicious honey is made from the nectar of local wildflowers and is a great way to bring a taste of Cave Junction home with you.

Local Culture and Customs of Cave Junction

Cave Junction has a unique and welcoming culture that is reflective of the town’s history and people. Here are some of the key customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • Wilderness Preservation: The people of Cave Junction take great pride in preserving and protecting the natural beauty of the Oregon wilderness. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and leave no trace.
  • Hospitality: The people of Cave Junction are known for their warm and welcoming hospitality and are always happy to help visitors get the most out of their visit to the town.

Best Time to Visit Cave Junction

Cave Junction is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons and what to expect:

  • Spring: Spring is a great time to visit Cave Junction, as the wildflowers are in full bloom, and the weather is mild and pleasant.
  • Summer: Summer is the peak season for Cave Junction, with lots of outdoor activities and events happening in and around the town.
  • Fall: Fall is a beautiful time to visit, as the autumn leaves change color and create a stunning natural spectacle.
  • Winter: Winter is a quiet and peaceful time in Cave Junction, with fewer crowds and a cozy atmosphere.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cave Junction

Do:

  • Respect the environment and leave no trace.
  • Embrace the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the natural beauty of the town.
  • Ignore the local customs and traditions.
  • Leave litter or damage local wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cave Junction

Cave Junction is a safe and welcoming town, but visitors should take some precautions to ensure their safety, such as:

  • Hiking and biking with a partner or group.
  • Staying on designated trails and respecting wildlife.
  • Locking cars and accommodations and keeping valuables secure.

Health in Cave Junction

Cave Junction has medical facilities to provide visitors with care in case of a medical emergency. Visitors are advised to:

  • Bring any necessary medications and supplies with them.
  • Stay hydrated during outdoor adventures.

Getting to Cave Junction: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cave Junction is easily accessible by car, bus, and air. Here are the best options for getting to the town:

Airports Near Cave Junction

  • Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (70 miles)
  • Del Norte County Regional Airport (74 miles)

Bus Stations Near Cave Junction

  • Greyhound Bus Lines (28 miles)
  • Josephine Community Transit (3 miles)

Other Options

  • Car rentals are available at both airports and nearby cities.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in the town.

How to Get Around in Cave Junction

Cave Junction is a small town with limited public transportation options, so the best way to get around is by car or bike. Car rentals are available at both airports and nearby cities, and there are many bike rental shops in town.

Where to Go Next from Cave Junction: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cave Junction is surrounded by many beautiful destinations and attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Rogue River: This beautiful river is a popular destination for rafting and fishing and is located just a short drive from Cave Junction.
  • Redwood National and State Parks: Located just across the border in California, these stunning parks boast some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world.
  • Crater Lake National Park: This iconic national park is located just a few hours’ drive from Cave Junction and is home to the stunning Crater Lake.

Conclusion

Cave Junction is a beautiful town that offers endless natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, you’ll find something to love in this charming and welcoming town. Plan your next trip to Cave Junction today!