The Temple of Oculus Anubis is one of the creepiest places in Oregon, possibly even the country. This mysterious property has created quite a buzz over the years, especially in online communities that enjoy a good story.
You don’t have to wait for a full moon to get goosebumps; visiting the Temple of Oculus Anubis will make the hair on your neck stand up in broad daylight. Let’s learn more!
Where Is the Temple of Oculus Anubis?
The Temple of Oculus Anubis is in Damascus, Oregon. The gate to the Oculus Anubis is actually in a residential subdivision at the end of a cul-de-sac, which gives visitors little room and space to turn around when visiting.
The no trespassing signs warn unwanted guests from breaking the law and trying to discover what awaits behind the gates.
About Damascus, Oregon
Damascus is a rather quiet small town with just over 11,000 people. The city is only 25 minutes outside of Portland, which prides itself on being weird. Many find it humorous that the city of Damascus sits halfway between the city of Boring and Happy Valley.
The city has been the center of controversy as it went through seven city managers in eight years. The city also went through a back-and-forth battle between being incorporated and unincorporated.
The Oregon Supreme Court stepped in on Sept. 3, 2020, to uphold a May 2016 vote. This eliminated the City of Damascus, and it is now an unincorporated territory in Clackamas County.
What Theories Surround the Temple of Oculus Anubis?
Many online sleuths have let their imagination run wild regarding the Temple of Oculus Anubis. The large statues, Egyptian-like sculptures, and large ominous black gates have led many to claim the property is home to a cult. Some believe the property has connections with the Heaven’s Gate cult from the late 1990s.
The multi-million dollar property has a reputation for having high-tech security. Some theorize that guards monitor the entrance and then follow those who approach the gates to ensure they leave. Whether the consistent traffic of white SUVs is a coincidence or simply neighbors on their way out, it’s caused some excitement.
One of the most plausible and accepted theories is that an eye doctor owned the property in the past. The doctor made quite a bit of money by conducting insurance fraud on his optometry business.
The money he embezzled went towards constructing the property; however, he died of a stroke and left his autistic son with many legal issues.
Traveler’s Tip: If you’re searching for more spooky destinations, the underground tunnels of the cursed “death” cave in Arizona are open to explorers — do not go in alone!
Can You Visit the Temple of Oculus Anubis?
Absolutely not. The Temple of Oculus Anubis is 100% private property. The black and orange no trespassing signs at the entrance warn anyone daring to investigate the area.
You should only enter the property if you know the owners and receive an invitation. If you decide to bypass the no trespassing signs, expect law enforcement to get involved.
Places to Visit Near the Temple of Oculus Anubis
Visiting the Temple of Oculus Anubis can land you in legal issues. However, we’ve found many enchanting places nearby that you can legally visit. Let’s take a look!
Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is an incredible 611-ft tall waterfall that provides an astonishing view. The falls are easily viewable from the highway, but you’ll want to park to take it all in.
A short 5-minute walk is all it takes to get a breathtaking view of the falls. You can walk your way up to Benson Bridge and enjoy the falls in all their beauty. It’s a rare opportunity to see a waterfall with such an impressive height so easily.
At Hidden Falls Nature Park, you’ll find a little less than a mile-long paved trail that provides a great view of a waterfall.
The park is a semi-urban oasis where you can connect with nature and forget about the surrounding urban environment. You can enjoy a short hike with a few hills to get your heart pumping. It’s a great hike for families and dog owners, too.
Leach Botanical Garden
This 16-acre botanical garden lies southeast of Portland. You’ll find approximately a mile of trails that allow you to see native and foreign trees, ferns, and flowers.
The Leach Botanical Garden is an intimate space that makes it easy to enjoy natural beauty in a tranquil environment. Make sure to visit in the spring when the flowers are in full bloom and take many great pictures.
Powell Butte Nature Park
Powell Butte Nature Park is it if you want a family-friendly place to enjoy some hiking, biking, or an equestrian trail. Whether looking for a short or long hike, you’ll find it here.
This popular area makes parking challenging, but you can get some epic views of snow-capped mountains in the distance on a clear day. Lace-up those hiking boots and pick a hike at a distance you can enjoy. You’re in for a treat when you hike at Powell Butte Nature Park.
Will You Visit the Creepiest Place in Oregon?
While the Temple of Oculus Anubis has many reports, it’s nothing more than a private residence with owners tired of trespassers and vandals. The rumors are they don’t mind people taking pictures of their beautiful gate, but they do mind those inconsiderate individuals who trespass or destroy their property.
If you want a unique place to visit in the Portland area, be respectful and considerate of the property owners and neighbors. You’re likely not the first person to stop by that day, and you won’t be the last.
Would you visit the Temple of Oculus Anubis?
