Marys Peak Botanical Special Interest Area — Attraction in Philomath

My wife and I rode the Motorcycles up here last year in July 2014. On a clear day (which we had and I brought binoculars) you can just see the ocean, which is roughly 22 to 23 miles away as the crow flies. There are some picnic benches, a trail to the upper view point if you are into a little hiking. I don't remember any restrooms facilities... the parking lot is big for a place that doesn't get many visitors, if the road wasn't so twisty you could park 25 motor homes easy, that big. Don't try getting up to the top or bottom lot in a RV over 20/25 feet long you will regret it and most certainly block the road for us other visitors, it's really too twisty for any large vehicle which will find itself in the middle of the two lane road for most of the way up... and down, NOT safe. I gave it 4 stars because it's remote and doesn't...

Marys Peak is a very easy hike. The drive has a lot of up hill sharp turns so I advise caution when driving. Once you reach the top it is a beautiful view. Snowcap mountains in the distance, a overwhelming silence and if you go between spring, late summer their are amazing wildflowers and buterflies galor. Many options for trails, many that just loop around to the top again but all with spectacular views. If you travel down to the woods where the camp spots are their is a 6 mile hike around that is very peaceful. Some areas are very loose rock and gravel so I advise being prepared with a walking stick. Depending on ehen you go it can be a high traffic area or no one at all. Worth the trip even if just for a picnic at the top. You won't be...

Spent one night at Mary's Peak Campground; 6 sites first come first served. Pit toilet; clean and well stocked with toilet paper. No water as advertised; bring in your own water for cooking and cleaning. Parking for Meadows Edge trail at this location, turn left. Campground is right of the pay station. This Campground could use tent pads; finding level ground was difficult. The sites would be perfect for hammock camping; plenty of large well established trees. Fire ring and picnic tables at each campsite. Occupy campsite and pay within 30 minutes, hanging receipt on rear view mirror, clip on site sign. Short parking spaces not intended...