Union County: Nature, History and Outdoor Experiences

In Union, the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show takes place every year during the first full week of June. If you want to plan your trip around the event, check the specific dates in advance. This recurring time frame offers seasonal guidance for planning, but does not replace checking the current event calendar.

History in Union

The Union Main Street Historic District (1870–1940) was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 20, 1997. You can get a copy of the Union Historic Walking Tour at Union City Hall or the Historic Union Hotel; the tour goes to the Historic District. This makes it easy to plan the town’s history as a focus of your visit.

The Union County Museum offers a different perspective: it features the Cowboys Then & Now collection, along with exhibits on the region’s natural and cultural history. The history of agriculture and ranching is presented through this collection and the Agriculture, Timber & Transportation sections. A livery stable, general store and historic rooms offer further insight into past ways of life and work. Visits are available seasonally from Mother’s Day through September.

Wetlands and Wildlife Viewing

Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area includes the largest remaining hardstem bulrush wetland in northeastern Oregon. March through June is the most active time for viewing birds and other wildlife. During this time, blooming common camas may turn the meadows blue; both wildlife sightings and bloom times can vary by season.

Facilities include a wildlife viewing platform, an observation blind, trails, accessible restrooms and a fishing pond. There are also blinds for waterfowl hunting. Access areas and permits are subject to seasonal restrictions or regulations. Check in advance which rules apply to your planned visit.

Recreation and Golf

Year-round outdoor recreation in Union County ranges from high-mountain adventures to lakeside relaxation. The Mt. Emily Recreation Area offers visitors in Union County a variety of recreational opportunities, as well as educational and natural resources. The focus varies: while Ladd Marsh offers specific seasonal viewing periods and facilities, Mt. Emily offers recreation, education and natural resources.

The Buffalo Peak Golf Course is a dedicated destination for golf. Designed by William Phillips, the 18-hole course is owned by Union County, Oregon, and operated by the county government. Since ownership or operations may change, check the latest course information if you have specific plans.

A Loop Through the Landscape

The Grande Ronde Farm Trail runs entirely through Union County and forms a scenic loop through rolling fields, quiet country roads and broad open landscapes. The start and finish are in La Grande. The loop offers a different way to plan a trip than making individual visits to the museum or wildlife viewing areas.

Discover more destinations: La Grande, Josephine County, Douglas, Lake County, Sherman, Klamath County, Baker, Coos County.

For the main travel overview: Oregon.