So you decided to leave California and check out the Pacific Northwest. Good choice as the region has tons to offer adventurous RVers. Once you’ve crossed the Siskiyou Mountain Summit, it’s smooth sailing into one of the country’s most beautiful states. However, don’t be surprised if that sun you were so accustomed to seeing in California suddenly hides beneath a thick gray blanket of clouds--that's all part of Oregon’s charm, and as the locals like to say, “That’s why everything stays so green!” And green you will see, in every brilliant shade imaginable, in every place that you look.

While traveling down I-5 in Oregon, you’ll find yourself dreamily gazing out the window at the ever-evolving landscape from pastures filled with grazing sheet to gentle green mountains and prairies to the skyscrapers of downtown Portland. This stretch of Interstate has got it all.

If you’re going to stop in southern Oregon for any reason, whether for gas, food or the night, make sure to stop in Ashland, home of the renowned annual Shakespeare festival. Ashland is one of Oregon’s hidden gems, filled with quaint, old world charm in its super adorable downtown area. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, you can’t go wrong filling your belly at the Great American Pizza Company located at 1448 Ashland Street. This cozy pizza joint features a wide array of yummy pizzas and sandwiches. Their menu also happily includes vegan and gluten-free pizza options. And if you need to pick up groceries, Ashland Food Coop located at 237 N. First Street is one of the cheeriest food coops I’ve ever visited. The store is large and packed with all kinds of healthy food items.

Want to stay the night at a state park? Valley of the Rogue State Park is just 30 minutes up the road from Ashland at Exit 45B. It’s a darling little Oregon State Park that features spacious sites, hiking and rafting opportunities along the Rogue River.

Once you get back on the road, there’s another stop you might want to make less than three hours north. Those enamored with Marathon Coaches—and that probably includes every RVer on the planet—will be pleased to know that Marathon world headquarters is located right off I-5 in Coburg, Oregon.

RVers not in any rush could make another overnight stop at historic Champoeg State Heritage Area in St. Paul, Oregon. This delightful state park features two campground loops, hiking and biking opportunities, disc golf, and an informative visitor’s center dedicated to keeping the history of the area alive.

Got shopping on your mind? Then don’t pass up the chance to shop for some bargains at the Woodburn Factory Outlet Stores in Woodburn. The town also has a Super Walmart Center, several RV parks, and many restaurants to choose from.

After this stop, you’re almost to the mecca of Oregon—Portland. But before you get there, be sure to fill your belly with some healthy grub at Native Foods located in the Bridgeport Village shopping center right off I-5 in Tigard, Oregon.

Just be assured that wherever you go and whatever you do, there is no shortage of scenery or services along the I-5 corridor in Oregon.

**Want to add more vegan meals to your RV trips? Check out my eBook "Vegan Road Trip: Simple Vegan Recipes for your RV Kitchen" which features a variety of tasty vegan recipes--from breakfast to dessert and everything in between.**