The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Powder Wild and Scenic River flows almost 12 miles from Highway 203 to the dam in Thief Valley. The powerful river cuts through a rugged canyon and plunges 500 feet deep in certain sections. Cross-country hiking is often the best way to get to the heart of the Powder River. This gorgeous river and surrounding wilderness are protected by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), a federal agency that preserves the country's natural landscape. Visitors are welcome to hunt, fish, camp, and view wildlife. Kayaking is possible in the spring but should only be attempted by experienced boaters.
Baker City, the largest local city with a population of 10,000, is home to the Leo Adler House Museum. Be sure to check out the nearby Umatilla National Forest and Eagle Cap Wilderness. Crater Lake National Park is 360 miles southwest while Mount Rainier National Park is about 300 miles northwest.
This out-and-back trail gives hikers and backpackers outstanding views of local flora and fauna. You can hike this trail at any time of year as long as you're prepared for heavy winter snowfall. Plan to take plenty of water breaks on your way up.
Length: 16.0 miles
Intensity: Hard
Located in the Wallowa Whitman National Forest, this trail isn't too steep or strenuous. After crossing over several rivers, you'll find yourself in a breathtaking meadow. Bug spray is a must to keep away mosquitos and flies.
Length: 9.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Anglers can expect to find smallmouth bass, cutthroat trout, and bream while fishing from Powder River. The 740-acre Thief Valley Reservoir is a great place to fish for rainbow trout when the water level is high. Windsurfing and boating are also popular at the reservoir.
The closest peak is Rattlesnake Hill, which towers more than 4,000 feet. Head west to explore the bountiful climbing opportunities at Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. This area has countless miles of mountain peaks as well as the deepest river gorge on the continent.
As you're enjoying the scenic Powder River, keep an eye out for beavers, otters, western toads, brush rabbits, and turtles. You may even see larger mammals like foxes, wolves, elk, black bears, and mountain lions. Rattlesnakes are typically most active in the warmer months but rarely bother humans.
On your way up to the Powder Wild and Scenic River, you'll likely pass the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. This site has several picnicking areas with exceptional views of the surrounding landscape. You'll also find paved trails, regular demonstrations, and interactive programs. Along with established BLM sites, you should also feel free to picnic near your RV or while you're out hiking and fishing.
The land around the Powder River was once used by indigenous groups for fishing and hunting. Visitors today are allowed to hunt as long as they have a valid Oregon hunting license. Avoid trespassing by watching for private property signs or fences. Elk, bighorn sheep, deer, and quail are a few of the most commonly hunted animals in the area.
Start planning your Oregon RV camping trip by searching for "BLM camping near me." Find comfortable camping options at sites like Grande Hot Springs RV Resort. This RV park has 100 RV spots with full hookups along with a few tent areas. They'll also help you clean and sell your motorhome. Sumpter Pines RV Park is in a quiet area with several full hookup sites. You'll surely enjoy their flea market events, ATV trails, boating access, and historical buildings.
Plan your dream camping experience by looking for a Bureau of Land Management free camping spot. Dispersed camping is allowed in areas like the Snake River-Mormon Basin Back Country Byway. You can also park your RV or set up a tent out in the woods near the Powder River. Primitive or dispersed camping spots are free and can't be reserved ahead of time. The best way to get your dispersed camping spot is to plan your trip during the off-season when fewer visitors are in the area.
While primitive camping sites give you more freedom and solitude, they often don't have amenities. Ensure you have access to the hookups you need by reserving a spot at a nearby campground. Feel free to hop between RV parks to more easily access the trails and sights you're interested in. Be aware of the forecast on the days you plan to hike and climb. Extra jackets and warmer clothing are often necessary for higher elevations where the temperature is cooler.
Finally, you can have just as much fun camping in the winter as you would in the summer. Let your family experience the joys of snowmobiling, ice fishing, and skiing in Oregon. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Visitors to Bureau of Land Management campgrounds should always remove all food scraps, debris, and garbage. Camp on hard surfaces that have already been used by other visitors. Avoid traveling through the rain when the ground is muddy and dangerous. Strive to limit your impact on the local environment and wildlife.
From Baker City, head north on Interstate 84. After 5 miles, take Exit 298. You'll then turn right onto Medical Springs Highway and travel almost 10 miles. The wild and scenic portion is right after you cross the bridge.
Ready to visit Powder Wild and Scenic River? 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.
