Oregon, the Pacific coastal state in the US, has long been celebrated as a paradise for travel enthusiasts and those who appreciate unspoiled natural beauty. With winding roads hugging rugged coastlines, vast national forests, and pristine turquoise lakes, Oregon offers an unforgettable motorcycle touring experience. To make your trip even more complete and comfortable, finding the right accommodation is crucial. So, how do you find the best places to stay when motorcycle touring through Oregon? This article will share useful tips and experiences to help you have a memorable journey exploring Oregon.
Oregon welcomes motorcycle riders with countless stunning landscapes, from the majestic Pacific coast to the towering Cascade Mountains and colorful high desert regions. Each route holds surprises and delights, beckoning you to explore and experience. However, unlike typical vacations, motorcycle touring demands flexibility and adaptability, especially when choosing accommodation. After a long day conquering the roads, a comfortable and safe place to rest is essential to recharge for the next leg of your journey.
Popular Accommodation Options for Motorcycle Tourists in Oregon
When motorcycle touring in Oregon, you have various accommodation options, depending on your budget, preferences, and itinerary. Here are some popular lodging types favored by many riders:
1. Wild Camping
For those who love freedom and want to immerse themselves in nature, camping is an excellent choice for motorcycle touring in Oregon. The state boasts countless beautiful campsites, from well-equipped sites in national parks to secluded, pristine spots deep in the forest.
A peaceful campsite at Ainsworth State Park, Oregon, surrounded by lush green trees
Pros of Camping:
- Cost-effective: Camping is often the most budget-friendly option, especially if you already own a tent and necessary gear.
- Nature immersion: You’ll sleep under the stars, wake up to birdsong, and enjoy the fresh mountain or forest air.
- Flexibility: You can easily change campsite locations depending on your itinerary and preferences.
Cons of Camping:
- Weather dependent: Camping can become challenging and inconvenient in bad weather, especially heavy rain or strong winds.
- Lack of amenities: Primitive campsites often lack restrooms, showers, or electricity, requiring more thorough preparation.
- Security: Security can be a concern when camping in remote areas, especially for protecting your motorcycle and personal belongings.
Tips for Safe and Convenient Camping:
- Choose reputable campsites: Prioritize campsites managed by national parks or reputable organizations to ensure security and basic amenities.
- Book in advance: Especially during peak summer travel season, popular campsites often fill up quickly, so book ahead to secure your spot.
- Prepare all necessary gear: Ensure you have a tent, sleeping bag, camping stove, flashlight, drinking water, food, and other essential personal items.
- Learn about regulations: Each campsite may have specific rules about campfires, waste disposal, noise levels; familiarize yourself and comply.
- Pay attention to safety: Always lock your motorcycle securely, store valuables in your tent when sleeping, and carry insect repellent.
2. Roadside Motels
Motels are a popular and convenient accommodation option for motorcycle tourists in Oregon. They are typically located along major routes, especially highways and freeways, making them easy to find and access.
A typical roadside motel in America, offering simple and convenient lodging for travelers
Pros of Motels:
- Convenience: Motels are usually conveniently located, easy to find, and easily accessible by motorcycle.
- Affordability: Compared to hotels, motels are often more budget-friendly, suitable for many riders’ budgets.
- Basic amenities: Motels offer basic amenities like beds, private bathrooms, air conditioning, and sometimes free Wi-Fi.
- Secure parking: Most motels have private parking lots, providing peace of mind about the security of your motorcycle.
Cons of Motels:
- Lack of character: Motels often have simple designs, lacking high-end amenities or special services.
- Potentially noisy location: Motels located by roads can be affected by traffic noise, especially at night.
- Variable quality: Motel quality can vary depending on location, price, and management; careful consideration is needed before booking.
Tips for Choosing a Quality Motel:
- Read online reviews: Check hotel review websites like Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, or Google Maps for feedback from previous guests.
- Check location: Prioritize motels in safe locations, with convenient access to transportation and nearby amenities like restaurants and gas stations.
- Call to book: Especially during peak season, it’s advisable to call and book in advance to ensure availability and ask for more details about the motel.
- Inspect the room before check-in: Upon arrival, request to see the room before deciding to check in to ensure it’s clean, well-equipped, and meets your needs.
3. Airbnb and Homestays
If you want to experience a cozy, home-like atmosphere and learn more about local culture, Airbnb and homestays are worth considering when motorcycle touring in Oregon.
A cozy homestay with a lush green space, offering an immersive experience of local nature and culture
Pros of Airbnb and Homestays:
- Comfortable space: Airbnb and homestays usually offer more spacious and comfortable accommodations compared to hotel rooms, especially if you’re traveling in a group or want privacy.
- Full amenities: Many Airbnbs and homestays are fully equipped with amenities like kitchens, washing machines, living rooms, making you feel at home.
- Local experience: You have the opportunity to interact with locals, learn about Oregon’s culture and customs.
- Flexible pricing: Airbnb and homestay prices can vary depending on location, amenities, and type of accommodation, allowing you to find options that fit your budget.
Cons of Airbnb and Homestays:
- Fewer services: Compared to hotels, Airbnbs and homestays generally offer fewer services, and you may need to be more self-sufficient.
- Location not always convenient: Airbnbs and homestays may be located in residential areas, not always close to major tourist attractions or main transportation routes.
- Need to book in advance: Airbnbs and homestays are typically booked in advance, especially good and highly-rated properties, so plan and book early.
Tips for Choosing the Right Airbnb and Homestay:
- Read descriptions and reviews carefully: Review accommodation descriptions, amenities, location, rules, and especially read reviews from previous guests for an objective view.
- Contact the host: Ask the host questions about motorcycle parking, security, amenities, and other information you’re interested in before booking.
- Choose a suitable location: Consider the location of the Airbnb or homestay in relation to your itinerary, ensuring easy access by motorcycle and proximity to places you want to visit.
- Check cancellation policies: Carefully read the cancellation policy of the Airbnb or homestay to avoid the risk of losing money if your plans change.
4. Small Hotels and Boutique Inns
If you want to enjoy more comfort and better service than motels but still prefer a cozy and personalized atmosphere, small hotels and boutique inns are worth considering.
A charming boutique hotel with unique architecture, providing a luxurious and refined stay
Pros of Small Hotels and Boutique Inns:
- Good amenities and service: Small hotels and boutique inns often offer better amenities and services than motels, including free breakfast, high-speed Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and sometimes pools or spas.
- Unique atmosphere: Many small hotels and boutique inns have unique designs, reflecting local styles or specific themes, creating an interesting lodging experience.
- Central location: Small hotels and boutique inns are often located in central or bustling areas, with easy access to attractions, restaurants, and shops.
Cons of Small Hotels and Boutique Inns:
- Higher prices: Compared to motels and other accommodation types, small hotels and boutique inns are usually more expensive, potentially not suitable for tight budgets.
- Limited parking: Some small hotels and boutique inns in city centers may have limited parking or no private parking for motorcycles.
- Need to book early: Due to limited rooms and good quality, small hotels and boutique inns are often booked early, especially during peak season.
Tips for Choosing Small Hotels and Boutique Inns:
- Search on boutique hotel specialist websites: Websites like Tablet Hotels, Mr & Mrs Smith, or Small Luxury Hotels of the World specialize in showcasing unique and quality boutique hotels.
- Read reviews from reputable sources: Refer to hotel reviews from travel magazines, travel blogs, or reputable hotel review websites.
- Consider location and amenities: Prioritize small hotels and boutique inns with convenient locations for motorcycle travel, secure parking, and amenities that meet your needs.
- Book directly: Sometimes booking directly through the hotel or boutique inn’s website can offer better prices or special deals.
Accommodation Experiences from a Washington to Oregon Motorcycle Trip
A motorcycle trip from Washington to Oregon, like the original author’s story, offers diverse experiences in landscapes and cultures. From bustling Seattle to the pristine Olympic National Park, then to the peaceful Cannon Beach and vibrant Portland, each stop has unique accommodation options.
Experience from the trip shows that accommodation choices need to be flexible and adapt to each stage of the journey. In Seattle, due to high prices, choosing a budget motel in Renton, a 20-minute drive from downtown, is a reasonable cost-saving solution. When exploring Olympic National Park, camping is a great option to immerse yourself in nature, though finding a spot can be challenging in peak season. In Portland, motels or Airbnbs are suitable choices for resting and enjoying city amenities.
A simple tent set up next to a truck, a familiar scene in nature-exploring motorcycle trips
Lessons Learned:
- Be flexible in your choices: Don’t limit yourself to a single type of accommodation; be flexible and change depending on location, budget, and preferences.
- Book in advance when necessary: For major cities or popular tourist destinations, especially during peak season, book accommodation in advance to ensure you get your desired place.
- Be prepared for surprises: On motorcycle trips, you might encounter unexpected situations like campsites being full or not finding a suitable motel. Always have backup plans and stay optimistic.
- Safety is a priority: Regardless of accommodation type, safety is always the top priority. Choose places with good security ratings, secure motorcycle parking, and ensure you feel comfortable and secure when resting.
Conclusion
Finding the best places to stay when motorcycle touring through Oregon is more than just finding a place to sleep; it’s a crucial part of the travel experience. Choosing the right accommodation will help you have a comfortable, safe, and memorable journey. Whether you choose wild camping, roadside motels, cozy homestays, or luxurious boutique hotels, always prioritize safety, convenience, and budget-friendliness. Wishing you a fantastic motorcycle tour and a complete exploration of Oregon’s beauty!