Oregon - The Beaver State

Oregon

Oregon
>Oregon, located in the Pacific Northwest, is a state of breathtaking natural beauty and diverse landscapes. From the rugged Pacific coastline to the towering Cascade Mountains and the high desert plains of the east, Oregon offers an incredible variety of scenery. Its largest city, Portland, is known for its creative spirit, green spaces, and strong commitment to sustainability. The state capital, Salem, lies in the fertile Willamette Valley, an area famous for its agriculture and world-class vineyards.

Nature and Geography

Oregon is home to some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the United States, including Crater Lake—the deepest lake in the country—and Mount Hood, a popular destination for skiing and hiking. The Columbia River Gorge offers waterfalls and dramatic cliffs, while the Oregon Coast is dotted with charming seaside towns and rocky beaches. This variety makes Oregon a haven for outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

History and Culture

Oregon’s history is shaped by Native American cultures, the Oregon Trail, and the pioneering spirit of westward expansion. Today, its culture blends innovation, artistry, and environmental awareness. Whether exploring its forests, tasting its local cuisine, or learning about its past, visitors to Oregon discover a state of endless wonder and character.

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Fast Facts and Interesting Facts
Fact Detail Interesting Facts
Region: Pacific Northwest
  1. Oregon’s Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, formed inside a collapsed volcano about 7,700 years ago.
  2. The Oregon Trail brought thousands of pioneers westward during the 1800s, shaping the state's early history.
  3. Oregon has more ghost towns than any other U.S. state, many remnants of the 19th-century gold rush era.
  4. Portland is famous for having more breweries than any other city in the world.
  5. Oregon is one of the few states with no sales tax.
  6. Mount Hood, a potentially active stratovolcano, is Oregon’s highest point at 11,249 feet.
  7. The state is home to the only state flag in the U.S. with a different design on each side.
  8. The world’s largest living organism, a giant honey fungus spanning over 2,300 acres, is found in Oregon’s Malheur National Forest.
  9. Oregon was the first state to make beach access public property, guaranteeing everyone the right to enjoy its coastline.
  10. The name “Oregon” may have come from the French word “ouragan,” meaning hurricane or windstorm, referring to the strong winds of the Columbia River Gorge.
Population: Approximately 4.3 million (2025 estimate)
Area: 98,379 sq mi (254,800 km²)
Statehood: February 14, 1859 (33rd state)
Capital City: Salem
Largest City: Portland
Abbreviation: OR
Nickname: The Beaver State
Geography: Features diverse landscapes including the Pacific coastline, Cascade Mountains, high desert, and fertile Willamette Valley.
Bordering States: Washington (north), Idaho (east), Nevada (southeast), California (south)
Economy: Driven by technology, agriculture, forestry, tourism, and manufacturing; major crops include hazelnuts, wine grapes, and nursery products.
State Tree: Douglas Fir
State Bird: Western Meadowlark

Our Content

Interactive and Printable Oregon Maps and Map Activities

This section features numerous interactive and printable Oregon maps. Students can even use our Maptivation program to make their own Oregon map.

Oregon History

History of Oregon

Oregon was originally home to many Native American tribes before explorers and settlers arrived in the 1800s. It became the 33rd U.S. state in 1859 after being part of the Oregon Territory.
Jason Lee

Famous People from Oregon

Oregon is home to many famous people, including Jason Lee, a missionary who helped build early schools and communities in the Willamette Valley. Chief Joseph, the brave leader of the Nez Perce, is remembered for defending his people’s homeland and seeking peace during difficult times.
Comprehension

Oregon Literacy and Comprehension Exercises

This section offers a variety of literacy and reading comprehension activities, including engaging passages with question sets, cloze reading exercises, and lessons on text elements and structure. These resources are generally suitable for students in grades 4–8.
Oregon Symbols

Fun Oregon Printables and Coloring Activities

This section features fun and educational Oregon-themed coloring activities and printables, including state symbols, a state flag outline, a 'Welcome to Oregon' sign, and much more!
Collage America

Fun Oregon and United States Online Games

This section provides some really exciting online games such as Oregon or Not Oregon, Collage America, Ameriquake, Conquer the States, Draw America, and several more.