Life is a Picnic
When winter turns to spring and spring turns to summer, it’s time to dust off the picnic basket, stock it with local food and beverages and head to one of the many scenic parks around the Umpqua Valley.
Story by Brian Staffield Photo by Jonathan Cummings
Longer days and warm spring breezes mean picnic season has arrived in the Umpqua Valley.
Select your destination from the multitude of local parks, fold your blanket and pack your basket, or if you prefer, stop at one of the great food-to-go spots along the way.
If you are in search of ideas, Stewart Park, in the heart of Roseburg, is a favorite setting for picnics small and large. Its lush green hillside provides a perfect spot to lay down a blanket and enjoy the calming view of the beautiful South Umpqua River. And, considering the unpredictability of Oregon’s spring weather, the recently renovated Stewart Park pavilion provides a comfortably covered fallback position if needed.
A few miles northwest of Roseburg, where the North and South Umpqua rivers converge, is another tranquil and scenic location, River Forks Park. With wide-open green spaces, playground equipment, a covered area and much more, it’s a popular destinations for families, large groups, couples or individuals in search of a natural lunch or dinner setting.
For those who want a no-fuss picnic, there are plenty of delis, restaurants and stores around Roseburg offering delicious picnic fare. If you’re tastes go beyond sandwiches, almost every local restaurants offers their menu to go.
If you’re stocking your own picnic basket, the Umpqua Valley Farmers’ Market is a great option. Located on Harvard Avenue near both Stewart and Fir Grove parks, the market offers a cornucopia of in-season produce, fresh bread, hummus and a wide assortment of other goods from local growers and purveyors.
There’s no wrong way to picnic in the Umpqua Valley. All you need is food, beverage and your own special spot in our beautiful little corner of heaven on Earth.
Some of Our Favorite Picnic Picks:
Face Rock Creamery Aged Cheddar — Made in nearby Bandon
Papa Curt’s Salsa — Made in Roseburg; available at Sherm’s Thunderbird
Cowboy Panini from Bob’s Deli
Turkey Sandwich with Sprouts from Between the Buns
Fresh Juices from Booster Juice
ANY local wine or beer
