Roseburg Live Cam

It is in the Umpqua River Valley in southern Oregon



History

Roseburg is a city located in the Umpqua River Valley in Douglas County, Oregon. It is situated approximately 180 miles south of Portland and 70 miles south of Eugene. The area that is now Roseburg has a rich history dating back to the indigenous peoples who inhabited the region for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers.

The indigenous inhabitants of the Roseburg area were the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians. They lived in the region for centuries, relying on the abundant natural resources provided by the Umpqua River and the surrounding forests.

The first European settlement in the area was established in 1851 by Aaron Rose, who named the town after himself. Roseburg grew as a result of the California Gold Rush, as it served as a supply center for miners traveling south. The town was officially incorporated in 1872.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Roseburg became a significant timber and agricultural center. The area's fertile soil allowed for the cultivation of crops such as wheat, hops, and fruit. Timber played a crucial role in the local economy, and the city developed a thriving lumber industry. Several sawmills were established, leading to the growth and prosperity of Roseburg.

In 1959, Roseburg faced a devastating event known as the "Columbine tragedy." A man named Howard Unruh killed several people in a local café, leaving a lasting impact on the community. However, the city has since rallied together, supporting one another and promoting a strong sense of community.

Today, Roseburg is a vibrant city with a population of around 23,000 people. It serves as a commercial and cultural hub for Douglas County, offering various amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational opportunities. The region's natural beauty continues to attract visitors, with outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and rafting available in the nearby Umpqua National Forest and the North Umpqua River.

Roseburg is also home to educational institutions like Umpqua Community College, which provides higher education opportunities for local residents. The city hosts annual events and festivals, including the Douglas County Fair, the Greatest of the Grape wine tasting event, and the Summer Arts Festival.

Overall, Roseburg's history showcases its transition from an indigenous land to a bustling settlement with a strong focus on agriculture and timber. Despite the challenges faced over the years, the community remains resilient and continues to thrive, blending its historical roots with modern development.

Top Tourist Attractions

Roseburg offers several attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the area:

  • Wildlife Safari: Located just outside of Roseburg, Wildlife Safari is a 600-acre drive-through animal park. Visitors can take a leisurely drive through the park and observe a wide variety of exotic animals, including lions, giraffes, elephants, and cheetahs.
  • Umpqua National Forest: The Umpqua National Forest is a vast forested area surrounding Roseburg, offering stunning natural beauty and recreational activities. It features numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, fishing spots, and campgrounds, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.
  • Stewart Park: Situated along the banks of the South Umpqua River, Stewart Park is a popular recreational area in Roseburg. The park features picnic areas, playgrounds, walking paths, a large fishing pond, and access to the river for swimming and boating.
  • Douglas County Museum: For those interested in the region's history and culture, the Douglas County Museum is worth a visit. It showcases exhibits on local Native American tribes, pioneer history, logging, and other aspects of Douglas County's heritage.
  • Roseburg Veterans Memorial Garden: Located in the heart of downtown Roseburg, the Veterans Memorial Garden is a tranquil and beautiful space dedicated to honoring veterans. The garden features sculptures, memorials, and landscaped areas for reflection and remembrance.
  • HillCrest Winery and Distillery: Wine enthusiasts can visit HillCrest Winery and Distillery, one of the oldest vineyards in Oregon. The winery offers tastings of their award-winning wines and provides tours of the vineyards and wine production facilities.
  • Winchester Dam Fish Ladder: Winchester Dam, located on the North Umpqua River, features a fish ladder that allows salmon and steelhead to migrate upstream during the spawning season. Visitors can observe the fish navigating the ladder and learn about their lifecycle and conservation efforts.
  • Glide, Oregon: Just a short drive from Roseburg, the small town of Glide is known for its beautiful waterfalls. Popular attractions in the area include Susan Creek Falls, Toketee Falls, and Clearwater Falls, all offering scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views.

These are just a few of the attractions that make Roseburg and its surrounding area appealing to visitors. Whether you enjoy wildlife, outdoor adventures, history, or wine tasting, Roseburg offers something for everyone.

Climate

Roseburg experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Here are some details about the climate in Roseburg:

  • Summers (June to September): Summers in Roseburg are warm and dry. Average high temperatures range from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 29-33 degrees Celsius). It is generally sunny during this season, with minimal rainfall. However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). It is advisable to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during the summer months.
  • Autumn (October to November): Autumn in Roseburg is mild and transitionary. Temperatures gradually cool down, with average highs ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 18-23 degrees Celsius). Rainfall increases during this time, and the area's foliage displays beautiful fall colors.
  • Winters (December to February): Winters in Roseburg are mild and relatively wet. Average high temperatures range from the low to mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 10-13 degrees Celsius), with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 30s Fahrenheit (around 0-5 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is common, and the area occasionally experiences light snowfall, although significant accumulations are rare.
  • Spring (March to May): Spring in Roseburg is mild and gradually transitions into warmer weather. Average high temperatures increase from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 12-18 degrees Celsius) during this season. Rainfall remains moderate, and the area begins to see the blooming of flowers and trees.

It's worth noting that climate patterns can vary from year to year, and extreme weather events can occur. It's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before visiting Roseburg or making outdoor plans.

Geography

Roseburg is located in southwestern Oregon in the Umpqua River Valley, surrounded by picturesque natural landscapes. Here are some details about the geography of Roseburg:

  • Location: Roseburg is situated in Douglas County, Oregon. It is located approximately 180 miles (290 kilometers) south of Portland, the state's largest city, and about 70 miles (113 kilometers) south of Eugene.
  • Umpqua River: The city of Roseburg is positioned on the banks of the South Umpqua River, a major waterway in the region. The Umpqua River flows through the city and offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.
  • Umpqua Valley: Roseburg is situated in the Umpqua Valley, a fertile region surrounded by mountains and forests. The Umpqua Valley is known for its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and agricultural productivity. The valley is home to vineyards, orchards, and farmland.
  • Mountains and Forests: Roseburg is surrounded by mountains and forested areas. To the east of the city, the Cascade Range rises, offering a stunning backdrop. The Umpqua National Forest lies to the east and northeast of Roseburg, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
  • Rolling Hills: The landscape around Roseburg is characterized by rolling hills and valleys. The topography is a result of the region's geological history and the erosion caused by the Umpqua River and its tributaries.
  • Climate: The geography of Roseburg influences its climate. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The surrounding mountains help moderate the climate and contribute to the area's natural beauty.

The geography of Roseburg combines elements of rivers, mountains, forests, and valleys, creating a scenic and diverse environment. This natural setting contributes to the recreational opportunities, outdoor adventures, and agricultural productivity that the region is known for.