Camping at HILLTOP DAY USE AREA
Overview
Hilltop Day Use Area is a part of L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park, which is a state park located in Oregon, United States. This sprawling park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, from camping and hiking to mountain biking and equestrian trails. The Hilltop Day Use Area typically provides facilities for visitors to enjoy picnicking and group gatherings with a view.
Location
The Hilltop Day Use Area is situated within L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park. The park is located approximately 34 miles west of Portland, near the town of Buxton. To access the park, visitors would usually travel along the US Highway 26 and take the exit towards the Banks-Vernonia State Trail.
Facilities and Features
Picnicking:
- The Hilltop Day Use Area includes picnic tables and BBQ stands, allowing visitors to have a pleasant outdoor dining experience with panoramic views of the Coast Range.
Shelter:
- There may be a reservable picnic shelter equipped with electricity and water, ideal for large group activities or family gatherings.
Restrooms:
- Restroom facilities with flushing toilets are available for visitor comfort.
Playground:
- Children can enjoy a playground area which is often a feature of the day-use area.
Parking:
- The site provides parking spaces including spots for people with disabilities.
Accessibility:
- The area is designed to be accessible with paved paths and accessible facilities to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges.
Activities
The Hilltop Day Use Area serves as a starting point for various activities that visitors can enjoy within L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park, including:
Hiking:
- A network of trails is accessible from the site, offering different levels of hiking difficulty with opportunities to view local wildlife and plants.
Cycling:
- The Banks-Vernonia State Trail, a 21-mile linear trail, is accessible from the park and is popular for cycling.
Horseback Riding:
- Equestrian trails are available for horse riding enthusiasts.
Disc Golf:
- L.L. Stub Stewart State Park has a disc golf course, which might be in proximity to the Hilltop Day Use Area.
Reservations and Fees
Picnic Shelter Reservations:
- It is often possible to reserve picnic shelters in advance, especially if planning a large gathering. There is typically a fee for shelter reservations.
Day Use Fee:
- There may be a day-use fee for visitors to access the park, including the Hilltop Day Use Area. The fee can usually be paid on-site.
Considerations
Weather:
- Always check weather conditions before visiting and come prepared for the local climate.
Wildlife:
- Store food properly and be aware of the wildlife in the area for safety.
Leave No Trace:
- Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the park.
Pets:
- Pets are generally allowed in state parks, but they must be on a leash and controlled at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pets.
Contact
For the most updated information, visitors should contact the park directly or visit the Oregon State Parks website. Park rangers can provide the latest details on conditions, reservations, and any special alerts or restrictions that may be in place.
