Go Celebrate! the 4th of July (2011)

Parades, games, history & fireworks at Oregon State Parks

Who doesn’t love a parade or tug-of-war? Bring your bicycles if you’re headed to Prineville Reservoir,  Silver Falls , or Honeyman 4th of July weekend. They’re hosting campground parades July 3 (July 4 at Honeyman), open to pets, bicycles, family and friends. Prineville also has family games. On July 4, look for Oregon State Parks mascot J.R. Beaver in the Jubilee Parade in Port Orford, near Humbug Mountain.

Looking for a day trip on the Fourth? Head to Dexter State Recreation Site  for live music, arts & crafts vendors and fireworks. The 13th annual celebration sponsored by the Dexter Fire Department costs $10 per vehicle. The proceeds go to the fire department.

History buff? Check out Champoeg and Fort Stevens living history programs during the long weekend.

Take a look at the park event calendar for more information.

The big July 4 draw is always fireworks. Although personal fireworks (including sparklers) aren’t allowed in state parks or the beach, several state parks and nearby communities sponsor professional displays.

• Detroit Lake, July 2
• Boiler Bay, July 3
• Sunset Bay, display in Coos Bay,  July 3
• Wallowa Lake “Shake the Lake”, July 4
• Pilot Butte,  July 4
• Milo McIver, display in Estacada. “Mini Bang” displays July 2 & 3 with the “Big Bang” at 10 p.m. on the Fourth.
• Carl G. Washburne and Honeyman, displays in Waldport July 3 and Florence July 4.

Check with park rangers for more local fireworks displays. You can find listings of other community events at www.traveloregon.com

Please Note: The park links go to maps and park directions, as well as park information and services.