Oregon, nicknamed the "Beaver State," is located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It's bordered by Washington to the north, Idaho to the east, and California and Nevada to the south; its western boundary is the Pacific Ocean. Known for its diverse landscapes, Oregon features rugged coastlines, lush forests, high mountains, and desert areas. As of 2023, Oregon has a population of approximately 4.24 million. Salem is the state capital, while Portland is the largest city, known for its progressive culture, food scene, and arts community.
Oregon's natural beauty makes it an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. The "Seven Wonders of Oregon" include Mount Hood, the Oregon Coast, the Columbia River Gorge, the Painted Hills, Smith Rock, the Wallowas, and Crater Lake. Crater Lake, the state's only national park, is the deepest lake in the U.S.. The Columbia River Gorge is famous for its many waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, the tallest in Oregon. Mount Hood offers year-round outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and camping.
Recent developments in Oregon include legislative actions aimed at boosting housing production, such as bills that support middle housing and expand urban growth boundaries. As of February 2026, a federal judge has extended a temporary order that limits federal law enforcement officers from using certain kinds of force outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in Portland. There have also been legal challenges to Oregon's Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act, with a preliminary injunction partially halting its enforcement against certain entities.
