The scenic Santiam River flows right through Lebanon. The city also has more than 300 acres of maintained parkland, trails, and natural areas. City parks, the river, and pioneer history offer different ways to shape your stay: you can get to know Lebanon by following a specific trail route or by exploring its historical development. When planning your overnight stay, it helps to decide in advance which of these sides of the city interests you most.
Parks and Trail Connections
A multi-use trail starts at the park entrance in River Park. It runs east along the park’s frontage, reaches the main road at the park’s northeast side, and continues into the adjoining Gill's Landing Park. The route provides a direct connection between the two parks, while following a clear sequence: from the entrance, along the park’s frontage, to its continuation in the neighboring park.
Lebanon’s parks are open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Before visiting, also check the notices at individual facilities. This helps distinguish the general opening hours from the conditions at each specific location.
Shelters in the city parks can be rented year-round and reserved up to twelve months in advance. If a shelter is part of your plans, check whether your preferred date is available and review the current reservation terms in advance. This is especially helpful if you are planning your trip around a specific gathering or time in the park.
Traces of the City’s History
In late fall 1847, Jeremiah Ralston stopped his wagon train at the site of present-day Lebanon. Ralston named the city after the cedars of Lebanon. Ralston’s stop and the origin of the city’s name offer a glimpse into Lebanon’s early history.
The historic Lebanon Pioneer Cemetery is the oldest cemetery in Lebanon; it is the burial place of many of the city’s early settlers. The cemetery was in use from 1850 to 1938 and is considered a representative example of early pioneer cemeteries in Oregon. For travelers interested in history, this is a focus in its own right: the site’s significance comes from its historical period and its role as a burial place for early settlers.
Seasonal Events and Special Dates
Free public tours were scheduled at the Japanese Healing Gardens for summer 2026. The offering is seasonal, so for a future trip, check current tour dates rather than planning on the summer tours being available year-round.
The Strawberry Festival is also part of Lebanon’s annual event calendar. The festival has been held for 100 years and is associated with the world’s largest strawberry shortcake. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the specific dates and program in advance. This keeps the recurring annual event distinct from the details that may change each year.
City Parks and Regional Forest
Lebanon provides access to the forested Willamette National Forest. This extends the natural setting beyond the more than 300 acres of maintained city parkland: the city parks include trails and natural areas, while the National Forest represents a regional forest landscape. The city parks offer maintained green spaces within the city, while the National Forest offers a forest landscape on a regional scale.
When looking for hotels in Lebanon, you can first decide what you want to focus on during your stay: the river and parks, city history, or a trip centered around a seasonal event. Plan your length of stay and travel dates accordingly; check the specific dates for tours and the festival before booking.
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