Welcome to Sunny Southern Oregon
In this land of old vulcanism, deep forests, and moderate seasons you can see many natural and cultural treasures. Share with us our beautiful region and welcoming and creative people.
Where is Southern Oregon?
The Pacific Northwest includes Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Oregon is divided north to south by the Cascade Mountains, and east to west at the end of the large and fertile Willamette Valley. FFSO is in the southwest corner of Oregon, just above California along the I-5 corridor. We are located in the Rogue River Valley containing the larger towns of Medford, Ashland and Grants Pass.
The elevation is about 1,500 feet, with rain from October to April averaging 17 inches. Mid-summer temperatures are in the 90s with dry, cool nights. Our winters are cool and wet, with occasional snow. Temperatures are moderate, about 40F.
Crater Lake
Crater Lake inspires awe. Native Americans witnessed its formation 7,700 years ago, when a violent explosion triggered the collapse of a tall peak. It’s the deepest lake in the U.S. and perhaps the most pristine. The view of the deep blue water and the caldera is truly stunning.
Grants Pass
The Rogue River is a federally designated Wild and Scenic River in a stretch below Grants Pass. It is accessible by raft or jet boat for a thrilling ride down the rapids.
Wildlife Images takes in injured animals for healing and release. Those too damaged for the wild are kept on site as teaching aids for ecological education.
Jacksonville
A frontier town of the late 1800s preserved as a National Historic Landmark shows the architecture of the early settlers. The main street is filled with interesting stores, good restaurants and tasting rooms.
Jacksonville hosts the summer Britt Festival of pop, jazz and classical music in an outdoor amphitheater.
Ashland
Home to Southern Oregon University and gateway to Mount Ashland skiing. Located at the top of Bear Creek Valley, Ashland (pop. 21,000) has many fine restaurants and unique shops.
Oregon Shakespeare Festival Located in Ashland, this is the largest regional repertory company in the U.S, with the first Elizabethan theater in the country. In an 8 month season starting in March, they present several plays by Shakespeare, as well as other classic and contemporary plays.
Medford
The financial, medical, and population center (pop. 82,000) of the Rogue Valley (pop. 217,000). Medford is home to famous Harry & Davids, known for their delicious pears and other treats. Tours are available.
Southern Oregon Wineries Always known for its agriculture, the Rogue Valley was lauded for its peaches at the turn of the last century. Now it’s famous for excellent pears as well as over 100 vineyards.
Central Point
The Crater Rock Museum This museum is a hidden gem! It has a vast display of rocks, fossils, minerals, gems, petrified wood and Native American items.
Dogs for Better Lives trains dogs to assist disabled individuals.
Klamath Lake
A major stop on the Pacific flyaway for thousands of migrating birds, the Klamath Wildlife Refuge area has volcanic tunnels to explore, an informative museum about the original native people, and opportunities to canoe through the wildlife rich marshes.
Redwood Trees
Near the Pacific coast the towering redwood forests of Jedidiah Smith State Park form natural cathedrals. Over the hill you can dip your toe in the mighty Pacific ocean.