Roughly four hours out of Portland, Crater Lake National Park is frequently praised for its beautiful blue water, “starry night skies”, and “scenic highways.” The lake water can be quite refreshing after a good hike on any of the trails here. With an elevation of approximately 8,000 feet, you can enjoy some incredible views out over everything within the steep, surrounding crater walls. Visit in the summer and enjoy the popular Crater Lake boat tour. See Wizard Island too.
Nestled along the Canadian border, Voyageurs National Park is 40+ percent water. It essentially is a noteworthy bunch of connected waterways popular with kayakers, canoeists, boaters, and fishermen. Stargazers praise this US park because it is an International Dark Sky Park. In other words, stargazing is incredible here and it’s also a great place to see the aurora borealis. Residents include black bears, beavers, deer, moose, and more.