Hidden in the lush woods of Turner, just a short drive from Salem, lies a place that feels like it leapt straight out of a storybook — The Enchanted Forest Oregon. This family-owned theme park has been a beloved destination for generations, offering a unique blend of whimsy, nostalgia, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend getaway or a traveler exploring the gems of the Pacific Northwest, this forest wonderland promises a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
A Brief History of The Enchanted Forest Oregon
The Enchanted Forest Oregon was the dream of one man — Roger Tofte. Back in the 1960s, Tofte, a father of four and a talented artist, began building the park on a patch of land in the woods of Turner. He poured in his savings, his sweat, and his imagination — one concrete sculpture at a time.
The park officially opened its gates in 1971. What started with hand-sculpted fairy tale scenes and storybook cottages has grown into a full-fledged theme park, yet it still maintains its quaint, homemade charm. More than 50 years later, it remains family-owned and operated, with Tofte’s children and grandchildren helping run the park today.
What Makes The Enchanted Forest Oregon Unique?
While many amusement parks aim for flashy rides and high-tech attractions, The Enchanted Forest Oregon stands out for its cozy, storybook feel. The park is built into a hillside and surrounded by real forest, which makes every twist and turn feel like stepping deeper into an enchanted world.
Here are a few things that make this park so special:
- Handcrafted Magic: Almost every sculpture, path, and cottage was made by hand, giving the park a one-of-a-kind, personal touch.
- Natural Setting: Unlike the concrete jungles of most theme parks, this one is tucked into Oregon’s lush greenery.
- Old-School Charm: It’s not just a park — it’s a walk through the past, with classic rides and fairy tale scenes that haven’t changed much in decades.
- Family Feel: Still owned and run by the Tofte family, the park has a warm, welcoming vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Top Attractions at The Enchanted Forest Oregon
Let’s take a magical stroll through the different lands and experiences within The Enchanted Forest Oregon.
Storybook Lane
This is where the magic begins. Storybook Lane is filled with classic fairy tale scenes brought to life. You’ll walk past crooked houses, crawl through Alice’s rabbit hole, and meet characters like Humpty Dumpty and Little Miss Muffet. Everything is scaled down to feel like you’re part of the story.
Highlights include:
- The Crooked Man’s House: A dizzying little house with tilted floors and angled walls.
- The Witch’s Castle: Straight out of Hansel and Gretel, spooky but fun.
- Pinocchio’s Theater: An animated puppet show for the little ones.
Tofteville Western Town
Step back in time to the Wild West in Tofteville, a charming old-timey town with wooden buildings, a haunted house, and shooting galleries.
Don’t miss:
- The Ice Mountain Bobsled Roller Coaster: A thrilling ride that zigzags down a snowy peak.
- The Haunted House: Dark, creepy, and full of jump scares — not for the faint-hearted.
- Panning for Treasure: Try your luck at gold panning like a real prospector.
Fantasy Fountains
A relaxing break from the action, this area features a musical water show set to popular tunes. On hot summer days, it’s a perfect place to cool off and enjoy some light entertainment.
The English Village
This quaint village has a European fairy tale vibe, with cobblestone paths, quaint shops, and the food court area. You’ll find handmade gifts, souvenirs, and sweet treats here.
One standout is:
- The Challenge of Mondor: A fantasy-themed indoor laser game where you battle dragons and goblins with your trusty wand.
Fun Rides for the Whole Family
Although The Enchanted Forest Oregon is not as ride-heavy as major theme parks, it still offers plenty of fun for all ages. Some favorites include:
- Big Timber Log Ride: A classic log flume ride with a big splash at the end — a crowd favorite.
- Kiddy Rides: From Ferris wheels to bumper cars, little ones are sure to have a blast.
- Carousel: A charming, vintage-style carousel that’s perfect for the young and young-at-heart.
Food and Refreshments
Exploring fairy tale lands works up an appetite. Luckily, the park has several food options ranging from snacks to full meals.
Some tasty options include:
- Burgers and fries
- Pizza and pretzels
- Soft serve ice cream and milkshakes
- Fresh-squeezed lemonade
- Vegetarian and gluten-free choices
There are also picnic areas if you prefer to bring your own lunch, and shaded spots to rest while enjoying a cool drink.
Tips for Visiting The Enchanted Forest Oregon
If you’re planning a trip, here are some tips to make your visit even more magical:
- Buy Tickets Online: This helps you skip the lines and check current hours.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The park is built on a hillside, and there’s a lot of walking involved.
- Go Early: Arrive close to opening time to beat the crowds, especially on weekends.
- Check the Weather: Many parts of the park are outdoors. Bring rain gear if needed.
- Bring a Camera: You’ll want to capture the colorful scenes and unique sculptures.
- Respect the Magic: The park is a labor of love — don’t climb on structures or leave trash behind.
Best Time to Visit
The Enchanted Forest Oregon is typically open from spring through fall (usually March to September), with limited hours. Summer months are most popular, but visiting in late spring or early fall can offer fewer crowds and cooler weather.
They sometimes open for special events, like Halloween-themed weekends or holiday light shows, so it’s a good idea to check the official website for updates.
How to Get There
The park is located in Turner, Oregon — about 8 miles southeast of Salem and roughly an hour’s drive from Portland.
Address:
8462 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR 97392
Getting There by Car:
Take I-5 South from Portland, and look for Exit 248. From there, follow the signs. There’s plenty of parking available.
Public Transport:
Limited options are available, so driving is the most convenient way.
Why You Should Visit The Enchanted Forest Oregon
In an age of digital everything, The Enchanted Forest Oregon offers something refreshingly real — a chance to unplug and explore a place built from imagination, not algorithms. There are no screens, no apps, and no virtual queues. Just the smell of pine trees, the sound of children laughing, and the magic of stepping into a world where fairy tales live.
It’s perfect for:
- Families with young children
- Grandparents revisiting childhood memories
- Couples on a quirky date
- Solo travelers seeking nostalgic adventures
- Anyone who believes in a little magic
Final Thoughts
The Enchanted Forest Oregon is more than a theme park — it’s a labor of love, a piece of living history, and a place where stories come to life. Whether you’re watching water dance to music, braving a haunted house, or walking through a crooked fairy tale lane, this enchanted escape will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
So pack your sense of wonder and get ready for a magical day. Because in The Enchanted Forest Oregon, dreams really do come true.
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