Samuel H. Boardman State Park is one of the most random state parks we have visited. If you had no idea what was here, you could easily drive right past without thinking anything of it. Natural Bridges is the show stopper of Samuel H. Boardman State Park. If you've heard of it, this is probably the spot you first heard of, and for good reason. This natural bridge is pretty outrageous and could easily be the next apple OS wallpaper. This part of Oregon is pretty out of the way but if you ever find yourself in the vicinity, we highly recommend this spot. There are also a few other really cool spots right off the highway within a 10mi radius, so this would be ideal for a quick weekend trip.
You can get down to the bridge from either direction, however if you go to the left, once you reach the bridge, you'll have to do a reasonably sketchy free-climb up the last 20ft to the top. Therefore, if you want to get down there, go to the right (from the parking lot). The left route does have some really cool views as well, so if you have time we def recommend checking that area out as well. Both routes have some steep terrain with loose dirt, so this trail is not for the faint of heart. Take it slow and be careful and you should have no problems at all. The bridge isn't super narrow, but if you're someone with a fear of heights, you might be a bit shook. Either way, the platform at the bottom of the trail (below the bridge) still offers some incredible views so still worth the half mile hike down there.
Since Samuel H. Boardman State Park isn't super well known and with no major cities nearby, any of the locations (even on the weekend) are pretty light on the crowds. We've been here twice, both times over the weekend, and never ran into more than 2-3 people at any of the spots (another reason why we're fans of this state park). As with all western coastal spots, sunset is usually the move. If you do get unlucky and run into a crowd here, sunset will be the time. Sunrise is pretty epic here as well depending on the conditions. Oregon for a lot of the year has a strong marine layer that can create some really interesting conditions. This spot is so accessible and so quick to hike, you can always check the conditions from the platform right off the highway and decide if its worth the hike down. We love moody conditions, so have scored a couple times at sunrise, but obviously, to each his own.
There are several cheap motels to the south of Samuel H. Boardman State Park within a 20min drive of all the good spots. Both visits, we have just shown up last min and found a spot to crash for less than one of those tiny heated tents in Yosemite. Both times we've driven all the way up from San Diego with absolutely no plan, so its pretty nice having a small town close by where you can grab cheap lodging, something to eat, or some extra underwear if you forget to pack it (true story).
Natural Bridges is the most popular spot in Samuel H. Boardman State Park, however Samuel H. Boardman isn't super well known and not particularly close to any major populations/cities. That means you don't have to worry about ducking crowds. If you're trying to get down to the bridge, take the trail from the right side of the parking lot. Most of the images you've seen are along this trail to the right. The terrain is steep and narrow so take your time and be sure footed. If you're scared of heights, this one might be a bit much for ya. If you only got one shot at this spot, go for sunset.