The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a government agency responsible for overseeing much of the public land throughout the United States. There are over 800 BLM sites across the country. They feature campgrounds, nature trails, national monuments, wilderness areas, and natural landmarks. Numerous outdoor enthusiasts visit these unique locations each year to partake in BLM camping and enjoy various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. If you want to visit the most interesting BLM sites, search online for "BLM camping near me" while on your RV trip. Located in northwestern Oregon, the Elk Bend Recreation Site is a serene area administered by the BLM. Popular attractions in the area are the Nestucca Wild and Scenic River for fishing, the Nestucca River National Back Country Byway, and Tillamook State Forest. The byway takes you on a leisurely route that winds through Oregon's Coast Range, and there are excellent hiking trails in Tallamook. Mount Rainier National Park is 200 miles to the north, and Crater Lake National Park is 270 miles south, making this area a great stop if you are traveling between the two.
This out-and-back trail is a rocky and challenging hiking route in Tillamook State Forest. The path takes hikers to the summit of Kings Mountain, where you can enjoy stunning views of the forest below and the surrounding peaks. Length: 4.4 miles Intensity: Moderate
Also located in Tillamook State Forest, this challenging loop trail is a popular destination for hiking and birdwatching. The route is steep and involves some rock scrambling. At the summit, you can see Kings Mountain and Mount Hood in the distance. It is recommended that you bring plenty of drinking water and snacks for energy. Length: 9.3 miles Intensity: Hard
This out-and-back trail, popular for hiking and trail running, takes hikers along the banks of the scenic Wilson River. The route features colorful wildflowers in the spring and summer, picturesque views, and the opportunity to observe local wildlife. For the best possible experience, you should visit this trail between April and October. Length: 5.1 miles Intensity: Moderate
Fishing is one of the most popular activities for visitors to the Elk Bend Recreation Site. During your visit, you'll have convenient access to the Nestucca River, which is a great destination to reel in steelhead, Chinook salmon, and cutthroat trout. The Nestucca River is also a lovely spot for a relaxing kayaking or canoeing day trip.
Visitors to the BLM site and nearby Tillamook State Forest will enjoy excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. While exploring the area, creatures to watch for include beavers, opossums, porcupines, and mule deer. Birders will appreciate spotting owls, sandhill cranes, California condors, and numerous species of songbirds.
The Elk Bend Recreation Site is a peaceful place to enjoy a picnic, and each campground site features a picnic table and a fire ring. These picnic tables are in secluded spots, surrounded by the serenity of nature. Alternatively, you could travel to the nearby town of McMinnville and have a picnic lunch at the lovely Discovery Meadows Community Park.
Visitors are welcome to partake in BLM RV camping at the Elk Bend Recreation Site, but there are no RV hookups or modern amenities offered at the campsites. Although no other developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are nearby, Camper Cove RV Park & Campground is 23 miles to the east. They offer 11 sites with full hookups, a bathhouse with hot showers, and laundry facilities.
To enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping, you can set up a dispersed campsite in the forested area around the Elk Bend Recreation Site. Free camping is also available at Tillamook State Forest in dispersed camping areas. In Oregon, there is usually a 14-day stay limit for camping on BLM lands. In addition, be aware that while most public land in the state is open for dispersed camping, you are not allowed to camp in day-use areas or where it is prohibited to protect wildlife.
When planning a trip to the Elk Bend Recreation Site, remember that the camping season is generally from May through September. Potable water is available at the campground during these months, but it is turned off during colder weather to prevent the pipes from freezing. During the spring and fall, hikers should bring extra layers for warmth because it can be surprising how cold it gets at higher elevations in this region. BLM camping at this site and others offer a unique way to experience the natural attractions of northwestern Oregon and get away from busy campgrounds. However, preparing to stay at camping spots with few services can be challenging. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
While staying at the Elk Bend Recreation Site, the BLM asks that you closely follow the Leave No Trace guidelines for preserving the land. If you have a campfire during your visit, please keep it under control and confined to the provided fire rings. In addition, when you are ready to leave your campsite, clean up. This means packing out all trash, including food scraps.
To reach the BLM site from Beaver, OR follow Coastal Hwy 101 east until you reach Blaine Road. Turn right, then continue for seven miles until you reach the Nestucca Byway, which will take you to the campground. GPS Coordinates: 45.28287, -123.54032 Ready to visit Elk Bend Recreation Site? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
