Fremont-Winema National Forest
Whether seeking solitude or a family get away, the Fremont-Winema National Forest offer a wide array of activities. Fishing, hunting, backpacking, hiking, camping, boating, and leisure driving opportunities abound. In the winter, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and downhill skiing are popular activities.
The Fremont and Winema National Forest's diverse habitats also support a variety of species, making wildlife viewing a unique recreation experience. Big game, such as mule deer, Rocky Mountain elk, and pronghorn antelope, all populate the forests. Several varieties of trout inhabit lakes and streams, as well as warm-water fish, such as large mouth bass. In the spring and fall, migrating geese, ducks and swans are in abundance. Large predators, such as black bears, mountain lions, and bobcats, also live in the forests.
Fremont-Winema National Forest manages four designated Wilderness areas.
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Sunset - Lake of the Woods (OR) Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Sunset Campground is located on the banks of scenic Lake of the Woods, in close proximity to several wilderness areas, offering visitors opportunities to experience both the serene and wild aspects of south central Oregon.Set beneath a towering conifer forest, the sites in this campground are widely spaced and offer lakefront views, showcasing the stunning Mt. McLoughlin.
Recreation
Sunset Campground is a wonderful location for hiking, fishing, hunting, horseback riding and biking in summer and early fall. In the winter months visitors can take advantage of skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.Anglers enjoy fishing by boat or along the shore for rainbow and brown trout, Kokanee salmon, bass and perch.
Swimming, kayaking and canoeing are wonderful ways to spend a warm afternoon along the waterfront as well. A boat ramp and swimming beach are provided.
Facilities
Sunset Campground has standard sites to accommodate RVs, trailers and tents.The campground is equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, drinking water and flush toilets.
A nearby resort offers visitors basic amenities, lodging, and dining.
Natural Features
Fremont National Forest is hemmed in by towering snow-capped peaks and wide-open sage basins.The nearby Sky Lakes Wilderness, designated by Congress in 1984, is a land of lakes, rocky ridges and timbered slopes. It is approximately 6 miles wide and 27 miles long, with elevations ranging from 3,800 feet in the canyon of the Middle Fork of the Rogue River to a lofty 9,495 feet at the top of Mount McLoughlin. More than 200 pools of water, from mere ponds to lakes of 30 to 40 acres, dot the landscape.
Wildlife viewing is plentiful in the area, as diverse habitats support a variety of species. Large mammals, such as mule deer, Rocky Mountain elk and pronghorn antelope, find homes in the the forests, while several varieties of trout inhabit lakes and streams. In the spring and fall, migrating geese, ducks and swans frame the Oregon sky. Black bears, mountain lions and bobcats also find homes in the forest.
Nearby Attractions
The Crater Lake National Park is a popular attraction, where visitors can learn about its unique natural and cultural history. At 1,943 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the ten deepest lakes in the world.Visitors also enjoy the 172 miles of diverse river and mountain landscapes along the Rogue-Umpqua National Scenic Byway. The scenic drive travels from rolling oak-covered hills and towering coniferous forests to roaring white water rapids and incised intercanyon lava flows. The highway travels alongside the Upper Rogue and North Umpqua Wild and Scenic Rivers that contain world-class fisheries.
contact_info
Between 05/15/2021 and 09/15/2021 this location is staffed. Please call (541) 274-0386 to speak with local staff. From 09/16/2021 to 05/14/2022 this location is unstaffed. Please call (866) 201-4194 for general information.RAINBOW BAY Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Rainbow Bay sits on the banks of scenic Lake of the Woods in close proximity to several wilderness areas. This group picnic site offers visitors opportunities to enjoy the serenity of the area while taking advantage of the multitude of recreational opportunities it has to offer.Visitors enjoy hiking on trails leading into towering conifer forests, picnicking at the beach or paddling a canoe along the shore at sunset.
Recreation
Rainbow Bay offers a great location for picnicking, fishing, swimming and boating. In the winter months visitors can take advantage of skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.Anglers enjoy fishing from shoreline or boat for rainbow and brown trout, Kokanee salmon, bass and perch.
Family picnics, playing on the beach, swimming, kayaking and canoeing are wonderful ways to spend a warm afternoon along the waterfront.
Facilities
The site is equipped with several picnic tables, extended barbeque grills, drinking water and flush toilets.There is a boat ramp area and large beach area near this site.
A nearby resort offers visitors basic amenities, lodging and dining.
Natural Features
Fremont National Forest is hemmed in by towering snow-capped peaks and wide-open sage basins.The nearby Sky Lakes Wilderness, designated by Congress in 1984, is a land of lakes, rocky ridges and timbered slopes. It is approximately 6 miles wide and 27 miles long, with elevations ranging from 3,800 feet in the canyon of the Middle Fork of the Rogue River to a lofty 9,495 feet at the top of Mount McLoughlin. More than 200 pools of water, from mere ponds to lakes of 30 to 40 acres, dot the landscape.
Wildlife viewing is plentiful in the area, as diverse habitats support a variety of species. Large mammals, such as mule deer, Rocky Mountain elk and pronghorn antelope, find homes in the the forests, while several varieties of trout inhabit lakes and streams. In the spring and fall, migrating geese, ducks and swans frame the Oregon sky. Black bears, mountain lions and bobcats also find homes in the forest.
Nearby Attractions
The Crater Lake National Park is a popular attraction, where visitors can learn about its unique natural and cultural history. At 1,943 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the ten deepest lakes in the world.Visitors also enjoy the 172 miles of diverse river and mountain landscapes along the Rogue-Umpqua National Scenic Byway. The scenic drive travels from rolling oak-covered hills and towering coniferous forests to roaring white water rapids and incised intercanyon lava flows. The highway travels alongside the Upper Rogue and North Umpqua Wild and Scenic Rivers that contain world-class fisheries.
Aspen Point (Lake of the Woods, OR) Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Aspen Point, located on the banks of scenic Lake of the Woods, is a single-loop campground that offers visitors opportunities to experience both the serene and wild aspects of south central Oregon.Visitors enjoy hiking on trails leading into towering conifer forests or paddling a canoe along the shore at sunset.
Recreation
Aspen Point Campground is a wonderful location for hiking, fishing, hunting, horseback riding and biking in summer and early fall. In the winter months, visitors can take advantage of skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.Adjacent to Lake of the Woods, anglers may want to cast a line out from boat or shore to reel in rainbow or brown trout. Kokanee salmon, bass, and perch, also thrive in the lake.
Swimming, kayaking, and canoeing are wonderful ways for visitors to spend a warm afternoon along the waterfront.
Facilities
Aspen Point Campground offers nearly 40 reservable campsites, including a group site that can accommodate up to 100 guests.The campground is equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, drinking water and flush toilets, along with a boat ramp and beach.
A nearby resort offers visitors basic amenities, lodging, and dining.
Natural Features
Fremont National Forest is hemmed in by towering snow-capped peaks, volcanic landscapes and wide-open sage basins.The nearby Sky Lakes Wilderness, designated by Congress in 1984, is a land of lakes, rocky ridges and timbered slopes. It is approximately 6 miles wide and 27 miles long, with elevations ranging from 3,800 feet in the canyon of the Middle Fork of the Rogue River to a lofty 9,495 feet at the top of Mount McLoughlin. More than 200 pools of water, from mere ponds to lakes of 30 to 40 acres, dot the landscape.
Large mammals, such as mule deer, Rocky Mountain elk, and pronghorn antelope, find homes in the the forests, while several varieties of trout inhabit lakes and streams. In the spring and fall, migrating geese, ducks and swans frame the Oregon sky. Black bears, mountain lions, and bobcats, also find homes in the forest.
Nearby Attractions
The Crater Lake National Park is a popular attraction, where visitors can learn about its unique natural and cultural history. At 1,943 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the ten deepest lakes in the world.Visitors also enjoy the 172 miles of diverse river and mountain landscapes along the Rogue-Umpqua National Scenic Byway. The scenic drive travels from rolling oak-covered hills and towering coniferous forests to roaring white water rapids and incised intercanyon lava flows. The highway travels alongside the Upper Rogue and North Umpqua Wild and Scenic Rivers that contain world-class fisheries.
contact_info
Between 05/15/2021 and 09/15/2021 this location is staffed. Please call (541) 274-0386 to speak with local staff. From 09/16/2021 to 05/14/2022 this location is unstaffed. Please call (866) 201-4194 for general information.Aspen Cabin (Fremont-Winema National Forest, OR) Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Historic Aspen Cabin is nestled in a forest of fir, pine, and aspen, and provides an ideal setting for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in the Fremont-Winema National Forest. It was built in 1930 and originally used as an administrative cabin and fire guard station by U.S. Forest Service employees.It also served as a warming shelter for snowmobilers and cross-country skiers during the 1990s. Today, the cabin offers guests a secluded getaway in a landscape abundant with wildlife and nature.
Although the cabin provides some amenities to those seeking a comfortable lodging experience, guests must bring several of their own amenities.
Recreation
Aspen Cabin is a wonderful location for hiking, fishing, horseback riding and biking in summer and early fall. In the winter months, guests can take advantage of skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.Hikers will find scenic trails near the cabin, including Crane Mountain National Recreation Trail, located 3 miles to the southwest and at the Walker Trailhead. The Drake McDowell Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized Area is just 2 miles to the east.
Facilities
The one-room cabin is designed to accommodate up to four people and is furnished with four cots, a dining table and chairs, countertop space for food preparation and a wood stove for heating. Also a broom, dustpan, dust mop, basic cleaning supplies and an axe. A picnic table and campfire ring are located outdoors, as well as a pit toilet. There is no water on-site, so guests must bring a sufficient supply for drinking, cooking and washing. Guests may fill water jugs at Mud Creek Campground approximately 1.5 miles away. Guests must also provide their own sleeping bags, sleeping pads, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear and a first aid kit. The Forest Service does not provide firewood but there is ample down and dead wood in the surrounding area. Cutting down standing trees for firewood is prohibited.Natural Features
Fremont National Forest is known for its towering snow-capped peaks, volcanic landscapes, wide-open sage basins, scenic vistas and wild places, where guests can still find solitude.The area around the cabin is home to abundant wildlife, including deer, elk and squirrels. For birders to the area, sparrows, jays, sandhill cranes and woodpeckers find habitat in nearby ecosystems.
Indian paintbrush, camas, wild lilies and other wildflowers add splashes of color to the forested landscape.
Nearby Attractions
Warner Canyon Ski area is typically open when conditions allow. Fremont National Recreation Trail is over 100 miles long and offers non-motorized opportunities (biking, stock, hiking).CURRIER GUARD STATION Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Historic Currier Guard Station is nestled in a scattering of fir, pine and aspen, providing an ideal setting for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in the Fremont-Winema National Forest. The guard station was named after a local ranch owner, and was constructed in 1933 as an out station for the Paisley Ranger District to house forest fire prevention and suppression crews in the field. Fire crews occupied the station seasonally until the early 1990s. Today, the cabin offers guests a secluded getaway in a landscape abundant with wildlife and nature. Although the cabin provides some amenities for those seeking a comfortable lodging experience, guests must bring several of their own supplies.Recreation
Currier Guard Station is a wonderful location for hiking, fishing, horseback riding and biking in summer and early fall. The cabin is located one mile north of the Sycan Wild and Scenic River, a scenic spot for fly fishing. The river corridor winds from a steep canyon to broad meadows, containing a diversity of landforms, rocks and vegetation. Coniferous forests intermingle with riparian vegetation, and expanses of sage and bitterbrush grow in the drier areas. The river supports rainbow, brook, brown and bull trout. Hikers and equestrians will enjoy numerous trails threading through the forest.Facilities
The 450 square-foot cabin has two rooms and can accommodate up to four people. The combination bedroom/living room is furnished with a set of bunk beds, a double bed, propane heating stove and a propane fridge. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs and a propane cook stove. A picnic table and campfire ring are provided for outdoor cooking, dining and campfires. A vault toilet is located near the cabin. There is no water on site, so guests must bring sufficient supplies for drinking, cooking and washing. Guests must also provide their own sleeping bags, sleeping pads, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. Although propane lighting is available, guests are advised to bring an additional light source in case of emergencies. Campers can collect up to half a cord of firewoodfor use on site without a permit.Natural Features
Fremont National Forest is known for its towering snow-capped peaks, volcanic landscapes, wide-open sage basins, scenic vistas and wild places where visitors can still find solitude. Behind the cabin, an expanse of meadow stretches to meet the forest's edge, providing a perfect habitat for a variety of wildlife. Red tail hawks perch in treetops looking for field mice. Meadowlarks, Steller's jays and hummingbirds also frequent the area. Larger mammals, such as deer and Rocky Mountain elk find homes in the forests. In the early summer months there are a lot of musqitos, be prepared with bug spray and nets.DRAKE PEAK LOOKOUT Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Located on the crest of the Warner Mountain Range at an elevation of 8,222 feet, Drake Peak Lookout hugs the wind-swept land surrounding it, offering unparalleled views into Oregon, California and Nevada. The lookout was built in 1948 and has served as a fire detection site for the surrounding area.Historically, Forest Service personnel lived long seasons in the cabin, scanning the region for lightning, flames, curls of smoke or any other indicator of possible forest fires. At one time, hundreds of these types of lookouts were in service throughout the Pacific Northwest. Today the lookout provides a unique lodging experience for guests seeking recreation and relaxation in the Fremont-Winema National Forest.
Although the lookout offers some basic amenities, for guests to enjoy their experience completely, they must bring several of their own supplies.
Recreation
Hiking, stargazing and wildlife viewing are popular activities. The Drake-McDowell area provides solitude for backpackers and horseback riders with spectacular views of the Warner Mountains, Hart Mountain, Warner Valley and Abert Rim. A hike to the summit of Drake Peak is a popular excursion from the lookout.At night the lookout is an ideal setting for stargazing, as constellations and planets put on a dazzling display.
Facilities
The small, 14 x 14-foot lookout is designed to accommodate up to four people and is furnished with folding cots, a table and chairs, a wood stove for heat and limited counter space for food preparation. A picnic table is located outdoors, as is a vault toilet. There is no water on site, so guests must bring sufficient supplies for drinking, cooking and washing. Guests may fill water jugs at Mud Creek Campground approximately 6 miles away. Guests must also provide their own sleeping bags, sleeping pads, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear, first aid kit and firewood. Although lighting is available, it is recommended that guests bring an additional light source in case of emergencies. The Forest Service does not provide firewood for this facility.Natural Features
Drake Peak Lookout sits beneath a vast sky, overlooking distant peaks, volcanic landscapes and wide-open sage basins. From its scenic perch, the lookout offers panoramic vistas and glimpses into wild places where visitors can still find solitude.Although the lookout does not sit on Drake Peak, the nearby mountain is one of several high peaks in the immediate vicinity, including Twelvemile Peak, Light Peak and Crook Peak. Composed of uplifted and eroded basalt, and sparse vegetation, views from this mountain offer unobstructed views of unique geological landforms.
Diverse habitats support a variety of species. Deer, Rocky Mountain elk and pronghorn find homes in nearby forests, while several varieties of trout inhabit the lakes and streams. In the spring and fall, migrating geese, ducks and swans frame the Oregon sky. Black bears, mountain lions and bobcats, also find homes in the surrounding area.
Bald Butte Lookout (Fremont-Winema National Forest, OR) Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Bald Butte Lookout is perched atop the windy summit of Bald Butte in the Fremont-Winema National Forest in south-central Oregon. It is surrounded by forested hillsides and expansive views.The lookout was built in 1931 and served as a Forest Service fire detection site for over 50 years. It was constructed from an Aladdin L4 ground-mounted lookout kit in which all of the pieces were pre-cut in six-foot lengths or less so the entire kit could be packed by horses into the remote site. The total cost of the structure at the time was $668.49 and only took a few days to assemble.
At one time, hundreds of these types of lookouts were in service throughout the Pacific Northwest. Today only two such structures remain in Oregon, providing a unique lodging experience for guests seeking recreation and relaxation.
The lookout offers basic amenities, though for guests to enjoy their experience completely, they must bring several of their own supplies.
Recreation
Hiking, birding, stargazing and wildlife viewing are popular activities. Bald Butte Trail is a quiet all-season trail that offers a variety of terrain and wildlife viewing opportunities. Hikers traverse large open meadows filled with summer wildflowers, heavily wooded forests and ridgetop scrambles along Oak Ridge Trail and Surveyor's Ridge Trail, overlooking the Hood River Valley. Trails in the Gearhart Mountain Wilderness are also nearby.At night the lookout provides an ideal setting for stargazing, as constellations and planets put on a dazzling display.
Facilities
The 14' x 14' lookout is furnished with two cots, a table, bench and storage cabinets. It is also equipped with a propane heater, cook stove, and lights. An outdoor picnic table and an accessible vault toilet are also on-site.
There is no water on-site, so guests must bring sufficient supplies for drinking, cooking and washing. Guests must also provide their own sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear, first aid kit, toilet paper, ice cooler and garbage bags. Although lighting is available, it is recommended that guests bring an additional light source in case of emergencies.
Natural Features
Fremont National Forest is known for its towering snow-capped peaks, volcanic landscapes, wide-open sage basins, scenic vistas and wild places where visitors can still find solitude.Nearby Gearhart Wilderness offers 22,823 acres of scenic views and primitive recreational opportunities. Throughout the remote area, streams rush through narrow meadows and Blue Lake lies nestled beneath a canopy of mixed-conifer forests. Rock formations cap most of the high elevation ridge tops.
HAGER MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Hager Mountain Lookout sits at an elevation of 7,195 feet, offering guests spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area. It is one of a diminishing number of lookouts still staffed for fire detection annually during the fire season and is open to guests in the winter months. The site is available for rent from November 15 to May 15, offering a unique lodging experience for guests seeking a bit of solitude and relaxation. For the remainder of the year, it is staffed by Forest Service personnel. This rugged, winter destination awaits the most enthusiastic outdoor adventurers as it is only accessible by foot, snowshoes or cross-country skis. Skiing or snowshoeing can take from a couple of hours to half a day or more, depending on weather conditions and one's physical endurance. Travel into remote locations in the winter requires experience and advance preparation. Expect windy conditions.Recreation
Hiking, wildlife viewing, stargazing, snowshoeing and skiing are popular activities. Hager Mountain is used during fire season to keep watch over the surrounding flat lands for any sign of smoke. During the winter, it becomes a winter wonderland and has one of the best snowshoeing climbs available in southern Oregon. The strenuous 4-mile hike up the west side of the peak leads to a panoramic view of the landscape. The lookout is a great spot for winter camping.At night the lookout is an ideal setting for stargazing, as constellations and planets put on a dazzling display.
Facilities
The fire lookout is a 14' x 14' room that can accommodate up to four people. It is furnished with three beds and mattresses. It is also equipped with a countertop, woodstove and propane stove. Firewood is provided. A picnic table is provided outside. A pit toilet is also located near the lookout. There is no water on-site, so guests must bring sufficient supplies for drinking, cooking and washing. Guests must also provide their own food, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, a light source, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags.Natural Features
A series of dome-building volcanic eruptions occurring about 8 million years ago gave birth to Hager Mountain. The lookout is perched on the bald cap rocks that make up this mountain and offers 360 degree views as far as Mount Hood and Mount Shasta on a clear day.Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, volcanic landscapes and wide-open sage basins, the area is known for scenic vistas and wild places where guests can still find solitude.
Gearhart Mountain Wilderness Facility
Gearhart Wilderness offers 22,684 acres of some of the most spectacular views from any angle as well as solitude, and a remote area with primitive recreation opportunities. At 8,364 feet, Gearhart Mountain stands higher than all the other volcanic domes in this Wilderness of high mountain meadows, cirques, and U-shaped valleys. Picturesque rock formations cap most of the ridgelines, offering sweeping views of the artistic sculpturings of long-vanished glaciers. Lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine, whitebark pine and white fir dominate the vegetation. There is only one lake in the Wilderness, Blue Lake. The Wild and Scenic North Fork Sprague River sweeps past the northern boundary of the area.
The main thoroughfare, Gearhart Mountain Trail, provides about 13 miles of access for foot and horse traffic along the main ridge and to the well-visited shores of Blue Lake. Joining the main trail from the southwest is the 3 mile Boulder Springs Trail to the wilderness boundary and 3.5 miles to Deming Creek Trailhead. The wilderness has fairly gentle terrain and open forestland with beautiful mountain meadows with lush green ground cover, stands of aspens, and multitude of spring flowers that invites visitors to explore all corners of the wilderness The snow starts in late September and may linger until early July. Snowshoeing and backcountry skiing are increasingly popular sports here.
- Access points: Trailhead and trail information
Mount Thielsen Wilderness: Fremont-Winema Facility
Mt. Thielsen Wilderness encompasses 54,914 acres and runs along the crest of the Cascades 80 miles east of Roseburg and just north of Crater Lake National Park. Elevations range from 5,000' to the 9,182' summit of Mount Thielsen. Born of the same volcanic activity that created Crater Lake, this is the land of fire and ice.
Much of the Mount Thielsen Wilderness is made up of high alpine forests and open meadows. The terrain is moderate but becomes very steep toward the crest of the Cascade Mountains. Timberline stands at about 7,200 feet, just above a forest of mountain hemlock and fir mixed with whitebark pine. Lodgepole pine dominates the vegetation at lower elevations. The many streams in the area carry a substantial amount of snowmelt in spring.
The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail winds through the Mount Thielsen Wilderness for 26 miles along the summit of the Cascade Range. For a more serene wilderness adventure, hike into Lake Lucille or Maidu Lake on the North Umpqua Trail #1414 (or via Maidu Lake Trail #1446). The trail passes over deep pumice that was deposited when Mt. Mazama erupted to form Crater Lake. The famed North Umpqua Wild and Scenic River begins at Maidu on its long trek to the Pacific Ocean.
Ponderosa Postcards Drive Facility
This scenic forest ecology drive offers several opportunities for short walks from your car. Pick up a brochure at the Infostop and look for numbered pots that are keyed to information in the brochure.Not recommended for RVs and buses; slow, one-way traffic.
Mountain Lakes Wilderness Facility
Before its eruption and subsequent transformation into a large caldera, the area we call Mountain Lakes Wilderness was a 12,000-foot mountain, one of the giants of the southern Cascades. Glaciation then carved up the caldera, leaving a scattering of small alpine lakes instead of one enormous body of water, such as Crater Lake National Park to the north.
Only eight prominent peaks remain of the caldera's rim. Unique to the National Wilderness Preservation System, this area is the only Wilderness with a perfectly square boundary. Long appreciated for its wonder, Mountain Lakes was one of the three original Primitive areas created in 1930 in the Washington-Oregon region. Mosquitoes fly thickly from snowmelt to mid-August, and provide food for the rainbow and brook trout in the lakes.
The 8.2-mile Mountain Lakes Loop Trail winds along the southern rim of the caldera, connecting three trails in the interior of the Wilderness: the Clover Creek Trail (4 miles) from the south, the Mountain Lakes Trail (6.5 miles) from the west, and the Varney Creek Trail (4.5 miles) from the north. Beyond the eastern boundary lies private land.
Remember: The wilderness is an environment that is unpredictable so bring clothing and supplies for all types of weather and situations.
- Key access points: Trailhead and trail information
Sky Lakes Wilderness: Fremont-Winema Facility
Congress designated Sky Lakes Wilderness in 1984 which now maintains 113,849 acres. It includes three major lake basins as it stretches along the crest of the volcanic Cascade Mountains from the border of Crater Lake National Park on the north to State Highway 140 in the south: Seven Lakes, Sky Lakes, and Blue Canyon basins. All of southern Oregon seems to lie at your feet from the rugged summit of volcano Mount McLoughlin (9,495’), and then extends out northward into Sky Lakes' broad plateau-like ridges, dotted with many lakes.
You'll find creeks and ice-cold springs, grassy meadows, and scores of clear sub-alpine lakes. Several of the lakes were found, by 1980s-90s Environmental Protection Agency baseline study of acid-rain conditions in Western U.S. mountain lakes, to have among the most chemically pure water known of all lakes on the globe. Most of the area's lakes, some of them stocked with game fish, are set against a backdrop of tall trees that reach to the edge of the lakeshore.
An overall high-elevation forest consisting largely of Shasta red fir, western white pine, and mountain hemlock yields to lodgepole pine around many of the lakes, as well to moisture-loving Engelmann spruce here and there. Hardy, long-lived whitebark pines are found near the summits of Mt. McLoughlin and Devil's Peak. The forest's understory is dominated by species of huckleberry, as well as manzanita, snowbrush, and heather.
Elk herds spend much of the summer and early fall in the northern third of the region. The entire area supports roving populations of pine martens and fishers, black bears, cougars, coyotes, as well as pikas and golden-mantled ground squirrels and other species of wildlife. During October and November, migrating birds pass over in the hundreds of thousands, often stopping at the high lakes. Ospreys regularly visit Sky Lakes to try their luck at fishing. Swarms of mosquitoes hatch from snowmelt until mid-August.
Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail passes the entire length of the area north-south for about 35 miles, but much of the route is well away from water sources. Use is heavy in the three main lake basins which are popular fishing, hiking, and camping destinations.
Please follow regulations and use Leave No Trace techniques to protect this unique area.
- Key access points: Trailhead and trail information
Bly Ranger District Facility
Bly, OR is in southeastern Klamath County in Oregon along Oregon Route 140. Fremont National Forest surrounds most of the area. Gearhart Mountain Wilderness is approximately 10 miles northeast of the town.
Office Address & Contact
Highway 140
P.O. Box 25
Bly, OR 97622
Phone (541) 353 2427
TDD (541) 947 2717
Fax (541) 353 2750
Chemult Ranger District Facility
Mailing address: P.O. Box 150
Chemult, OR 97731 USA
Phone 541-365-7001
Fax 541-365-7019
TTY 541-365-7010
Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:45 am - 4:30 pm
Closed on National Holidays
Chiloquin Ranger District Facility
38500 Highway 97 North
Chiloquin, OR 97624 USA
(541)-783-4001 Office
(541) 783-4009 Fax
(541) 783-4010 TTY
Monday - Friday, 7:45 am - 4:30 pm
Closed on National Holidays
Klamath Ranger District Facility
2819 Dahlia Street, Suite A
Klamath Falls, OR 97601 USA
(541) 885-3400 Office
(541) 883-6709 Fax
(541) 883-6702 TTY
Monday - Friday, 7:45 am - 4:30 pm
Closed on National Holidays
Lakeview Ranger District Facility
Address: 18049 Hwy 395
Lakeview, OR 97630
Phone 541- 947-3334
TDD 541- 947-6384
Fax 541- 947-6375
Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:45 am - 4:30 pm
Closed on National Holidays
Paisley Ranger District Facility
Address: Highway 31
P.O. Box 67
Paisley, OR 97636
Phone 541- 943-3114
TDD 541- 943-3407
Fax 541- 943-4479
Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:45 am - 4:30 pm
Closed on National Holidays
Silver Lake Ranger District Facility
Address: Highway 31
P.O. Box 129
Silver Lake, OR 97638
Phone 541- 576-2107
TDD 541- 576-7595
Fax 541- 576-7587
Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:45 am - 4:30 pm
Closed on National Holidays
Pelican Guard Station Day Use Area Facility
Located 35 minutes of northwest of Klamath Falls, Oregon, Pelican Guard Station is a worthwhile stop along the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway. Constructed in 1933 by a Civilian Conservation Corps Crew, it served as a residence and base-of-operations for the Forest Service seasonal fire guard and fire crews. It exhibits a simple, utilitarian design referred to as “stripped rustic,” which was lower in cost and faster to build than modern guard stations.
Today, you can explore the vintage guard station and garage from the outside and learn more about its history on the information kiosk. There are two picnic tables, two charcoal barbecues, and one vault toilet, making Pelican a good place for a lunch or pit stop.
A mixed conifer forest shades the day use area and it borders the riparian area of Varney Creek. There is a Nature Watch Interpretive Site across the street at the Pelican barn, which was added a couple years after the guard station.
One notable attraction at the Pelican Guard Station is the mortar rock fireplace built with basalt cobbles that are common to the area. A “P” to signify “Pelican” is embedded on the fireplace with red cinder blocks and bottle caps. The “P” is a reminder of past residents of Pelican Guard Station who battled forest fires.
Alert: No potable water is available. Visitors need to bring an adequate supply of water. Please pack it out and practice Leave No Trace principles.
South Fork Crooked Creek Trailhead Facility
Provides access to: Fremont National Recreation Trail #160 - Southern Segment and the Crane Mountain National Recreation Trail #161. The junction of these trails is located approximately 1/2 trail mile west of the trailhead.
This alpine setting is characterized by large ponderosa pines and stands of aspen trees, which blaze golden every fall. The trail bobs and weaves along Crooked Creek, crossing the creek at various points. This trailhead also accesses the Drake-McDowell Roadless Area, an opportunity for cross country hiking and pure adventure.
Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding are recreational pursuits on both trails. Amenities at the trailhead include horse corrals, one vault toilet, ample parking with trailer turnaround, and trail signage.
This trailhead offers dispersed camping and one vaulted toilet. There is no potable water. Visitors need to pack plenty of water.
Trail and parking area maintained during open season.
Swale Trailhead Facility
Provides access to: Fremont National Recreation Trail #160 - Southern Segment.
Visitors can hike, mountain bike or ride horses from Swale and access the Fremont National Recreation Trail #160 which connects to the north end of the Drake-McDowell Roadless Area.
This trailhead is located one hour five minutes northeast of Lakeview, Oregon, and is a primitive and quiet trailhead. The site offers a parking area that is adequate for trailer turnaround, and there are also signed trail directions.
There is no potable water. Visitors need to pack plenty of water. Trail and parking area maintained during open season.
Fourmile Lake Campground Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Fourmile Lake is located off Highway 140 near Lake of the Woods. The campground and day use area is at the southern end of Sky Lakes Wilderness area. This rustic campground with few amenities is the place to get away from the modern world. Horse corrals are available in the upper portion of the campground and the proximity to the wilderness and Pacific Crest Trail make it ideal for the backcountry enthusiast.Recreation
Visitors to the area will enjoy a variety of activities including hiking, backpacking, climbing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, horse packing, bird watching, stargazing, fishing, and horse camping.Facilities
The campground is equipped with hand-pumped water and stock-loading facilities, picnic tables, campfire rings, vault toilets and boat ramp. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Look for improved boat trailer and passenger vehicle parking in boat ramp and day use areas. Please follow directional signage and park in a responsible manner. $7 extra vehicle fee.
Natural Features
The 113,400-acre Sky Lakes Wilderness occupies the crest of the High Cascades, extending south from the boundary of Crater Lake National Park to Fourmile Lake. The wilderness has gentle, densely forested terrain with occasional steep areas. The name derives from the many small lakes, most of them clustered in several glacial basins near the crest of the Cascade Range. Several species of trees including Shasta red fir, western white pine, mountain hemlock, lodgepole pine, Engelmann spruce and whitebark pine are found throughout the area. The forest's understory is dominated by species of huckleberry, as well as manzanita, snowbrush, and heather.Nearby Attractions
Lake of the Woods is another nearby lake with USFS facilities and a full service family oriented resort just six miles down the road. Travel along the Volcanic Scenic Byway as you explore the surrounding area. Other stops of interest may include Kla-Mo-Ya Casino (57 miles), Fort Klamath Museum (35 miles), Collier Memorial State Logging Museum (60 miles), Pacific Crest Trail (within 2 miles) and Crater Lake (55 miles).Rocky Point Resort Facility
Rocky Point Resort is located on the peaceful Upper Klamath Lake amid gigantic Ponderosa pine trees. The resort is located 30 minutes from Klamath Falls, Oregon, and one hour from Medford, Oregon, and is open from April 1 through November 1. It adjacent to Rocky Point Day Use Area/Boat Launch.
The resort offers a variety of accommodations including five tent camping sites, 24 RV sites, and five cabins, many with serene lake views. There is also a restaurant and general store on the property to make this a full-service resort in a natural and rustic setting.
For recreation, Rocky Point Resort features access to excellent fishing, boating and bird watching opportunities. At the resort’s boat launch you can glide into the Upper Klamath Canoe Trail with a rented canoe, kayak, paddle boat, or small motor boat. Rentals are available by the hour, half-day or full day.
For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/RockyPointOregon.
FREMONT POINT CABIN Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
Fremont Point Cabin is located on top of the Winter Rim in North Central Lake County, Oregon. The newly constructed cabin, which was completed in the summer of 2015, sits on the same footprint as its predecessor, which was destroyed during a forest fire in 2002. Through numerous donations of funding, materials, and volunteer labor, the cabin has been rebuilt and is now ready for you to enjoy. While the cabin is available year-round, off season access may be limited to foot or snowmobile depending on weather conditions, as the roads are not maintained in the winter.Recreation
Recreational activities within close proximity of Fremont Point Cabin include horseback riding, wildlife viewing and photography, mountain biking, OHV riding, hunting, fishing, kayaking and boating. Numerous trails including the Fremont National Recreation Trail and Oregon Timber Trail are also nearby.Facilities
The large two-sided deck provides ample room to sit, relax and enjoy the vistas. Inside, the cabin contains one set of bunk beds (two twins) and one queen-size bed. There is room for additional sleeping arrangements, which guests must provide. Also included in the cabin are an LP Range Top, refrigerator, several LP lamps, and a wood stove for heat, firewood is available at the cabin. A newly constructed vault toilet is available next to the cabin. The closest convenience store is a 45 minute drive one-way; so visitors are reminded to bring their own water, bedding, and any other necessary items for their stay.