There are several reasons why you should consider staying in Ontario, Oregon. It is conveniently located near the scenic Snake River and Hell’s Canyon. The town also offers plenty of camping options. You can explore the many ghost towns that surround the town. In addition to being close to beautiful natural attractions, Ontario is also home to numerous campgrounds. Listed below are some of the best places to stay in Ontario, Oregon. These will be convenient when you are planning a road trip through the area.
The Ontario State Recreation Site is a great place to spend the day. The park is located on the banks of the Snake River and offers a riverside picnic area and year-round boat ramp. You may see deer and Canada geese in the area. Bring binoculars and a boat to get a closer look at the wildlife. You may be able to spot a fox, a hawk, a heron, or even a river otter.
The Oregon Short Line Railroad completed tracks through the area in 1884. This allowed for increased commercial activity. Soon, stock from Eastern Oregon cattle ranches was sent through Ontario to be transshipped to markets throughout the Pacific Northwest. With increased transportation and trade, Ontario quickly became the largest stockyard in the region. As a result, the town’s population increased and the railroad industry expanded. As the railroad and its related industries continued to grow, the town’s economy thrived.
In addition to housing a large number of Japanese immigrants, the city has a large Asian population. The Japanese population in Ontario was estimated at 134 in 1940 and increased to 800 in 1950. While many West Coasters resisted the settlement of Japanese Americans, the Mayor of Ontario defended the move by saying that it was cowardly to send the immigrants to the interior. By 1950, Ontario had the highest proportion of Japanese-American residents per capita in Oregon.
The history of Ontario is fascinating. The region’s history began with the Oregon Trail, a route favored by many travelers who were seeking a better life. This route offered a pleasant climate and plenty of land. In 1840, married settlers were given free land in the town. After the war, Ontario’s Native American population never fully recovered. Today, the Burns tribe hosts regular language programs, spear-making workshops, and an annual pow-wow event for local Indians and their families.
Another interesting fact about Ontario is that the town is home to the largest Japanese community in the country. The Japanese partners in the community introduced the Veterans Monument to honor the local military veterans. There is also the 27-square-mile ovaline lava flow. Some locals have claimed to see bootprints in the lava flow. Coffeepot Crater is a deep cavity near the far northeaster of the flow. The city also boasts caves, lava tubes, and petrified wood.
If you are traveling with kids, Ontario is a great destination for family vacations. Its four-mile stretch of beautiful coastline is ideal for hiking, biking, or simply hanging out with family. The city is also home to the historic Farewell Bend State Recreational Area. The site offers tent and RV camping as well as picnic tables. Many people who come to Ontario during the fall season also enjoy the Oregon Trail, so be sure to bring your camera to the area!