Applegate Lake Hart-Tish Park

For Oregonians seeking a truly picturesque and engaging outdoor experience, Applegate Lake Hart-Tish Park stands as a premier destination. Nestled on the serene shores of Applegate Lake within the beautiful Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, this campground offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. We know that locals appreciate direct access to the state's stunning lakes and forests, and Hart-Tish Park delivers exactly that, providing an ideal setting for everything from a relaxing lakeside retreat to an active water adventure.

Oregon's diverse landscapes are a cherished resource, and Applegate Lake Hart-Tish Park truly embodies the spirit of outdoor living that defines our state. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent under the stars, park your RV with a lake view, or spend your days exploring the water, this park provides the perfect backdrop. While it embraces a more rustic camping experience with certain amenities, it more than makes up for it with its breathtaking scenery and abundant activities. This article aims to offer a comprehensive look at Applegate Lake Hart-Tish Park, detailing its location, available services, key features, and why it remains a top choice for Oregon locals eager to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Southern Oregon. Get ready to discover your next favorite lakeside escape!

Applegate Lake Hart-Tish Park is conveniently located in Jacksonville, OR 97530, USA. This placement makes it an accessible and attractive destination for residents across Southern Oregon. Situated within the expansive Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, the park offers a true sense of escape into the wilderness, yet it's not overly remote.

To reach Applegate Lake Hart-Tish Park from Jacksonville, you typically take Highway 238 west for about 7 miles, then turn left at Ruch onto Road 859. Continue for approximately 14 miles, passing the Applegate Dam, and then turn left into the park entrance about three-quarters of a mile past the dam. The check-in is at the general store located at the bottom of the hill. The roads leading to the park are generally well-maintained, accommodating various vehicle types, including RVs, though the final approach might involve some winding forest roads. While the sense of seclusion is part of its charm, the park's relative proximity to Jacksonville ensures that essential supplies and emergency services are within a reasonable distance. This balance of being "away from it all" while still being connected makes Hart-Tish Park a highly appealing and convenient option for Oregon locals seeking a genuine outdoor adventure without an excessively long or challenging journey.

Services Offered:

• Tent Camping Sites: Designated walk-in tent sites, approximately 75 yards from parking, with carts provided for gear transport.
• RV Camping Sites: Lakeside RV parking spots available, although these are "dry camping" sites with no hookups for water or electricity.
• Restrooms: Flush toilets are available for camper convenience. (Note: Showers are not available).
• General Store: A small on-site general store offers a selection of non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, ice cream, ice, and basic camping and fishing supplies.
• Paddleboard and Kayak Rentals: Visitors can rent paddleboards and kayaks directly at the park to explore Applegate Lake.
• Boat Ramp: A concrete boat ramp is available for launching personal watercraft onto the lake.
• Fish Cleaning Station: Provided for anglers.
• Picnic Tables: Available at campsites and in the day-use areas.
• Fire Pits: Provided at campsites for campfires (check for current fire restrictions).
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available at the park.
• Parking: Ample parking is available for cars, trucks with trailers, and RVs. Additional vehicles may incur an extra fee.
• On-site Staff/Hosts: Staff are present to assist campers and manage facilities.

Features / Highlights:

• Beautiful Applegate Lake: The primary attraction, offering stunning views and a variety of water-based activities.
• No-Wake Lake: Applegate Lake has a 10 mph speed limit, ensuring a calm and peaceful environment for swimming, paddling, and fishing.
• Scenic Views: Campers are treated to uninterrupted views of Applegate Lake and the majestic peaks of the Red Buttes Wilderness.
• Water Activities: Ideal for swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing (stocked with trout, Chinook salmon, bass, and crappie).
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Numerous trails surround the lake, including an 18.5-mile trail around the shoreline, suitable for hiking, biking, and even equestrian use.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The large beach area is perfect for kids to swim and play.
• General Store Convenience: The on-site store provides quick access to forgotten essentials or treats.
• Serene and Peaceful Environment: Reviews consistently highlight the tranquil and breathtaking atmosphere of the lake.
• Photo Opportunities: The stunning scenery makes it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
• "Unplugged" Experience: Without electrical hookups for RVs and limited internet service, it's an ideal place to disconnect and enjoy nature.

Contact Information:

Address: Jacksonville, OR 97530, USA

Phone: (541) 899-9220 (Information)

Reservations: (877) 444-6777 (via Recreation.gov)

Email: info@applegatelake.com

Physical Address for GPS (from reviews): 15111 Upper Applegate Road, Jacksonville, Oregon, 97530

Applegate Lake Hart-Tish Park is an incredibly suitable destination for locals in Oregon, especially for those in the Southern Oregon region, due to its unique blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and recreational offerings. For many Oregonians, a deep appreciation for the outdoors is a way of life, and this campground allows for a genuine immersion in nature without demanding an arduous journey to get there. Its location just a short drive from Jacksonville means that while you feel completely enveloped by the forest and lake, you're never too far from civilization should you need supplies or a brief foray into town.

The park's emphasis on a more traditional camping experience, with dry RV sites and walk-in tent sites, caters to those who truly want to connect with the environment. While the lack of hookups might be a consideration for some RV users, it contributes to the tranquil atmosphere and encourages campers to embrace a simpler, more authentic outdoor lifestyle – a quality highly valued by many Oregonians. The absolute highlight, as frequently noted by visitors, is the stunning Applegate Lake itself. Its "no-wake" policy ensures a peaceful environment for swimming, paddling, and fishing, making it ideal for families and anyone seeking calm waters. The availability of paddleboard and kayak rentals directly at the park adds immense convenience, allowing spontaneous water adventures. This combination of serene lakeside camping, diverse recreational activities, and easy access makes Applegate Lake Hart-Tish Park an ideal local getaway for creating unforgettable memories in the heart of Oregon's natural splendor.

Applegate Lake Hart-Tish Park

Jacksonville, OR 97530, USA