Rainie Falls Trail

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

Created in 1946 by President Harry S. Truman, the Bureau of Land Management oversees nearly 256 million acres of public in the United States. These natural areas are exciting destinations for recreational activities. Depending on their location, they offer outdoor activities like biking, hiking, wildlife viewing, swimming, and more. There is a small fee to stay at developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in Oregon that is used to maintain the facilities. The Beaver State also has ample opportunities for free camping in BLM-dispersed camping areas. You are asked to use preexisting camping spots and fire rings, if present, in these areas to reduce your impact on the environment. While enjoying your trip, the BLM also asks that you be aware of local fire restrictions and obey any campfire bans. Rainie Falls Trail is a fantastic BLM site near the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in the Southwestern part of Oregon. The trail follows a portion of the mighty Rogue National Wild and Scenic River next to Rainie Falls. Two national parks are within a two-hour drive of Rainie Falls Trail. Redwood National Park is about 97 miles to the south, while Crater Lake National Park is about 110 miles to the east.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Rainie Falls Trail

You'll love hiking this short trail offering wildlife viewing opportunities and incredible views of the Rogue National Wild and Scenic River. There's a variety of lush vegetation along the route, including madrones, oaks, and wildflowers. Make sure to wear sturdy waterproof boots because the trail is often muddy, and you will have to navigate over sharp rocks. Length: 1.8 miles Intensity: Moderate

Rogue River Trail

This trail follows the north bank of the Rogue National Wild and Scenic River as it follows toward the Pacific Ocean. The trail cuts through thick vegetation and is popular with backpacking enthusiasts who hike all or part of the route looking for a challenging experience. Length: 40 miles Intensity: Hard

London Peak Trail

The London Peak trail is 21 miles east of the campground. The route is steep and brings hikers to the London Peak Overlook, which offers views of Wolf Creek Cayon, 1,400 feet below. Length: 2.5 miles Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

The areas surrounding Rainie Falls Trail provide incredible fishing opportunities, given its proximity to Rogue National Wild and Scenic River. You can cast your line to reel in steelhead and salmon, which are the most common fish species in the river. Grave Creek Boat Ramp is two miles to the east and an excellent place to launch your canoe or kayak to paddle the river.

Wildlife Viewing

The area around Rainie Falls Trail has abundant wildlife species, rendering it a great location for seeing wild animals. Some animals you may encounter in the area include black bears and river otters. If you are a birding enthusiast, look out for herons, owls, bald eagles, and osprey. You may also come across painted turtles, frogs, and snakes while hiking the trail.

Picnicking

Rand Recreation Area is six miles south of the trail and has picnic tables in a forest setting. While there, you will also see the remnants of an old mining camp, including cabins used by gold prospectors in the 1850s. Though the Rainie Falls Overlook has no tables, if you bring along a blanket, you can enjoy views of the waterfall while you enjoy a meal.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Although BLM RV camping isn't possible at Rainie Falls Trail, the surrounding area provides plentiful options. Indian Mary Park is 14 miles south and has full hookups, hot showers, a boat ramp, and a disc golf course. Griffin Park is also nearby and has 14 full hookup sites but no showers or flush toilets. The park is a great place to stay if you want to explore the Griffin Loop trail system.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping is available along the Rogue River and in Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. To find these dispersed camping spots and others, you can search "BLM camping near me" on your smartphone or tablet once you are in the area.

RV Rentals Near Rainie Falls Trail Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Rainie Falls Trail BLM trip

The Rainie Falls Trail and other routes found near it are relatively rugged. It is recommended that you wear sturdy boots and use hiking poles. You should also carry enough water, bear spray, and a first aid kit. Dressing in layers is also a good idea because temperatures get colder as you gain elevation. Grants Pass is a 30-mile drive southeast of Rainie Falls and has grocery stores and retail shops if you need supplies. When planning your trip, you should decide where you will camp because there are no camping spots at this BLM site, and most campgrounds in the area require a reservation. BLM campgrounds in this Oregon region offer great places to set up a base camp to explore the rugged landscape and boat in the Rogue River. They are also a low-cost way to enjoy your vacation. However, it takes careful planning to ensure you are comfortable in camping areas with few amenities. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Guests visiting Bureau of Land Management campgrounds should follow the "Leave No Trace" principles to help keep public lands pristine for other RVer's and future generations of nature enthusiasts. Always clean up after yourself and dispose of any trash. Only start a fire in a controlled and designated area, and keep fires contained at all times. In addition, keep your distance from animals and reduce your impact on local habitats by staying on designated trails when exploring.

Rainie Falls Trail Location

Rainie Falls Trail is near Grants Pass, Oregon. Drive north on I-5 from the city to exit 61. Turn left and drive northwest on Merlin-Galice Road for 23 miles. You'll find the trail on your right. Latitude/Longitude: 42.648636, -123.585537 Ready to visit Rainie Falls Trail? 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.