Hart-tish Day Use

For Oregonians seeking a picturesque lakeside getaway with abundant recreational opportunities, Hart-Tish Park at Applegate Lake, located near Jacksonville, OR, is a highly popular and scenic destination. While some recent feedback hints at challenges with RV parking layout and occasional heavy day-use traffic, the overall appeal of Hart-Tish lies in its stunning natural beauty, direct access to Applegate Lake, and a range of amenities that cater to both day visitors and overnight campers. It offers a unique setting where the majestic peaks of the Red Buttes Wilderness provide a breathtaking backdrop to your outdoor adventures, from serene mornings by the water to active days of swimming, boating, and hiking.

This comprehensive guide will provide Oregon locals with a detailed overview of what to expect at Hart-Tish Park. We'll explore its precise location within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest and discuss its accessibility from various parts of Oregon. Furthermore, we'll outline the services and facilities available for both day-use and camping, including important details about RV and tent sites. We'll also highlight the numerous features and activities that make Hart-Tish a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation, from its groomed lawns to its boat launch and nearby trails. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear picture of why Hart-Tish Park continues to be a cherished spot for Oregonians looking for a memorable lakeside experience in their beautiful home state.

Hart-Tish Park is beautifully situated on the shores of Applegate Lake, near Jacksonville, OR 97530, USA. This location places it firmly within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in Southern Oregon, an area renowned for its diverse landscapes, including forested terrain, a popular recreation lake, and views of the majestic Red Buttes Wilderness.

For Oregonians, accessing Hart-Tish Park is a scenic journey. From Jacksonville, you take Highway 238 west for approximately 7 miles to the town of Ruch. In Ruch, you turn left onto Upper Applegate Road (Road 859) and continue for about 14 miles, passing the Applegate Dam. Approximately three-quarters of a mile past the dam, you'll turn left into the park entrance. The check-in point is conveniently located at the general store at the bottom of the hill. The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through picturesque Southern Oregon landscapes, transitioning from rural farmlands to forested mountains.

While the general access roads are well-maintained, it's important for RV and trailer owners to note feedback regarding the parking layout. One visitor specifically mentioned that the "road is one way through the parking lot and boat launch, yet the RV parking sites are laid out the opposite way forcing Trucks with RV trailers to make a nearly impossible U turn when the parking is full." This suggests that while accessible, larger rigs may find maneuvering challenging, especially during peak times. Despite this, the park's popularity indicates that the journey and the onsite experience are well worth the effort for many. Its relatively short distance from population centers like Medford makes it a convenient day trip or a weekend getaway for many Oregon locals.

Hart-Tish Park offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities, catering to both day-use visitors and overnight campers, emphasizing convenience amidst a natural setting.

• PCampsites: The park features both tent and RV camping options. There are seven traditional walk-in tent campsites, each about 75-100 yards from the parking area, with carts provided for gear transport. There are also eight lakeside RV parking spots, which are dry-camping only (no hook-ups).
• PRV Parking Layout: RV sites are a sectioned-off portion of the day-use parking area. While offering lake views, some users note the challenging one-way road layout that can make maneuvering large RVs difficult, especially when the lot is full. RV campers are allocated two parking spots to help accommodate slide-outs and extra gear.
• PRestrooms: Flush toilets are available and generally described as clean and modern, contributing significantly to camper comfort.
• PDrinking Water: Potable drinking water is available throughout the park.
• PGeneral Store: An on-site general store provides convenience for last-minute needs, snacks, fishing supplies, and outdoor amenities.
• PBoat Ramp & Fish Cleaning Station: Hart-Tish boasts a cement boat ramp for easy lake access and a dedicated fish cleaning station, catering to anglers and boaters. The boat ramp is usable unless the lake drops below a certain elevation (typically 1,928 feet).
• PRentals: Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available, typically at rates like $40 for 3 hours or $60 all-day, allowing visitors easy access to water recreation.
• PDay-Use Area: A large, well-maintained day-use area with a sloping lawn down to a sandy beach provides picnic facilities and swimming access for day visitors. Day-use fees apply.
• PPet Friendly: Dogs are welcome on a leash, allowing Oregonians to bring their furry companions for their outdoor adventures.
• PGenerators: RV generator usage is allowed during specific hours (e.g., 10 AM-noon and 4 PM-6 PM daily).
• PFees: Campsite fees vary (e.g., RV sites $30/night, tent sites $25/night, group sites up to $75). Day-use fees, extra vehicle fees, and boat/trailer parking fees also apply. Two-night minimum reservations are often required on weekends and holidays.

These services collectively ensure that Hart-Tish Park can accommodate a variety of outdoor activities and comfort levels.

Hart-Tish Park at Applegate Lake is brimming with features and highlights that make it a premier recreational spot in Southern Oregon, attracting both day-use visitors and overnight campers.

• PStunning Lake Views: The campground offers "uninterrupted views of the majestic peaks of Red Buttes Wilderness looming over Applegate Lake." RV sites, in particular, provide spectacular lake views. The "beautiful area" is a consistent theme in visitor feedback.
• PApplegate Lake Access: Direct access to Applegate Lake is a major draw. The lake is popular for a wide range of water activities including "swimming, cycling, boating, canoeing, fishing and hiking the various trails near the lake." The large beach area and groomed lawn sloping to the water's edge are perfect for relaxation and family fun.
• PDiverse Recreational Activities: Beyond water sports, the park serves as a hub for land-based activities. There's an 18.5-mile trail that goes around the lake (with two short road sections), and various trails popular with mountain bikers. The Collings Mountain Trail, a challenging hike with panoramic lake and Siskiyou Crest views, starts from the park's picnic area, even featuring an inactive "Bigfoot trap."
• PFamily-Friendly Environment: The park's amenities, including the large lawn for games, easy lake access, and pet-friendly policy, make it an excellent choice for families seeking an outdoor adventure.
• POn-Site General Store: The convenience of a general store means campers don't have to leave the park for last-minute supplies, snacks, or fishing gear.
• PWell-Maintained Grounds: Descriptions of "beautifully groomed lawn" and clean restrooms indicate a commitment to maintaining a pleasant environment for visitors.
• PSeasonal Camp Host: During the open season (generally late spring to early fall), an on-site camp host helps ensure a smooth and well-managed experience for campers.

These features combine to create a dynamic and appealing outdoor destination for a wide range of interests.

For information, reservations, and current conditions at Hart-Tish Park at Applegate Lake, you can use the following contact details. As it is managed by a concessionaire under the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, federal reservation systems are typically used.

Address: 15111 Upper Applegate Road, Jacksonville, OR 97530, USA (This is the most specific address for the park entrance/general store).

Phone: (541) 899-9220 (This number is consistently listed for inquiries about Hart-Tish Park and the Applegate Lake area).

Mobile Phone: +1 541-899-9220 (Same as above, for direct contact).

For campsite reservations, particularly for RV sites or during peak season (May through September), it is highly recommended to use Recreation.gov, the official platform for federal recreation sites. Checking this website will provide the most up-to-date information on availability, fees, and any specific alerts or regulations (e.g., generator hours, fire restrictions). While the park is noted as being "Open Season: Year Round" for some aspects, the main camping season with services typically runs from May through September. Always confirm operational dates and specific site availability before planning your trip.

Hart-Tish Park at Applegate Lake is an outstanding choice for Oregonians seeking a multifaceted and vibrant outdoor experience close to home. Its location near Jacksonville in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest makes it an accessible yet deeply immersive escape into the natural beauty that defines Southern Oregon. For locals, this park offers an unparalleled combination of convenient amenities and extensive recreational opportunities right on the shores of a beautiful lake. Whether you're an avid boater, a keen angler, a family looking for safe swimming spots, or a hiker eager to explore challenging trails with panoramic views, Hart-Tish delivers.

While the RV parking layout might require some careful maneuvering, the stunning lake views from the sites and the overall experience more than compensate. The presence of flush toilets, a general store, and on-site rentals enhances comfort and convenience, reducing the need to leave the park. For Oregonians who want a dynamic camping experience that blends relaxation with active pursuits, all set against the backdrop of the Red Buttes Wilderness, Hart-Tish Park at Applegate Lake is an ideal choice. It perfectly embodies the spirit of Oregon's accessible wilderness, offering a cherished destination for local families, adventurers, and anyone looking to make lasting memories by the water.

Hart-tish Day Use

Upper Applegate Rd, Jacksonville, OR 97530, USA