Buffington Memorial Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Buffington Memorial Park is a beautiful park located in the state of Oregon.
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Summary
It is situated on the banks of the John Day River, and is popular among locals and tourists alike for its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Some of the best reasons to visit this park include camping, fishing, hiking, bird-watching, and simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
There are several points of interest in Buffington Memorial Park, including the historic homestead, the John Day River, and the hiking trails that wind through the park. The homestead is a well-preserved example of early pioneer life in Oregon, and visitors can tour the various buildings and learn about the history of the area. The John Day River is a popular spot for fishing and rafting, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hiking trails range in difficulty and length, and offer visitors the chance to explore the park on foot.
Interesting facts about Buffington Memorial Park include the fact that it is named after a local pioneer family, and that it was established in 1964 as a tribute to the area's early settlers. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and several species of bird.
The best time of year to visit Buffington Memorial Park depends on the activities you are interested in. Spring and summer are great times to go camping, fishing, and hiking, while fall offers beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures. Winter can be cold and snowy, but it is a great time to see the park in a different light and enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing.
Overall, Buffington Memorial Park is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of Oregon. With its diverse range of recreational opportunities and stunning natural scenery, it is sure to be a memorable trip for visitors of all ages and interests.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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