Union County, Oregon

Union County, stretching between the Blue and the Wallowa Mountains, was originally spurred by the mining industry but most of the mines were in an area annexed by Baker County in 1901. In spite of the adjustments, the county has continued to bloom and grow, literally, with over 1,000 farms in the Grande Ronde Valley producing wheat, fruit, vegetables, grass seeds, mint, sheep, cattle, and timber. This has been a slow but steady growth area in Oregon with 2500 inhabitants in 1870 to over 25,000 today.

La Grande, the county seat is home to Eastern Oregon University, a thriving educational institute known for teacher education and the nursing program. A diverse economy is one of the strengths of this scenic and busy area with Terry Industries, a mobile home ad trailer manufacturing company, Boise Cascade Lumber, Grande Ronde Hospital, and the Union-pacific Railroad all contributing to the overall economic health of the county.

Visitors to Union County should be sure to stop at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Park at Blue Mountain Crossing. Some of the most scenic and best preserved evidences of the Oregon Trail are easily accessed by paved trails. One of the largest remaining wetlands in northeast Oregon is located between the cities of La Grande and Union. ODF&W has developed a 3,028 acre viewing and wildlife preservation area with nature trails and photography blinds. Fishing, camping, hiking, and picnicking are available at several state parks in Union County, including Catharine Creek, Emigrant Springs, Red Bridge, and Minam State Parks.

Relax and rehabilitate year round at Lehman Hot Springs Pool on Oregon Highway 244, 30 miles up the scenic Grande Ronde River. Camping, RV sites, and rental cabins are available in a peaceful setting in the woods surrounding the springs. The facility has three pools of varying degrees of naturally heated water. Winter recreation abounds with downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling at Spout Springs Ski Area on Highway 204, toward Tollgate, as well as Anthony Lakes Ski Area in nearby Baker County.

A pleasant mix of small to intermediate sized thriving cites and great outdoor recreation opportunities makes Union County a natural choice for those seeking a quality living experience in a rural setting.

Oregon Blue Book

http://bluebook.state.or.us/local/counties/counties31.htm

Zip Codes