The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
BLM sites, which are areas of unincorporated public lands, are excellent places to spot local wildlife, hike, boat, or fish. These secluded areas often offer BLM RV camping or even Bureau of Land Management free camping. To find a BLM site with camping amenities, search for "BLM camping near me."
The Rogue Wild & Scenic River is located near Medford, Oregon, and it's part of the Wild Rogue Wilderness, which spans 35,806 acres, 8,600 of which are BLM land. The river area's dense forests and steep cliffs offer some of the most dramatic and gorgeous scenery in the state. It also provides conditions for a wide range of recreational activities.
One of many trails located along the lengthy Rogue Wild & Scenic River, this trail offers stunning views of the river and a waterfall.
Length: 37.1
Intensity: Difficult
This trail, which follows a route used by Native Americans, connects to an overlook that offers a glimpse into the Rogue River Canyon.
Length: 7.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This trail leads up to the Mount Bolivar peak and rewards you with stunning views.
Length: 2.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Although it's relatively short, this trail provides a challenging hike and an excellent chance to see an abundance of wildlife.
Length: 2.2 miles
Intensity: Difficult
This loop trail provides beautiful views.
Length: 2 miles
Intensity: Easy
The Rogue River is an excellent river for fishing — salmon and steelhead are common catches. There are many places along the river for casting a line, but you can also launch a boat and do a bit of drift-boat fishing. Several points along the river, such as the Robertson Bridge County Park, have calm waters perfect for swimming.
Rattlesnake Crag, near Medford, is an excellent spot for climbing enthusiasts. The crag offers over 100 single-pitch climbs, making it great for practice climbs.
The Rogue River and the surrounding area are excellent places to spot wildlife. You can see deer, lizards, blue herons, osprey, squirrels, and several types of snakes. Otters can sometimes be spotted as they play or hunt along the river. Many people see black bears, especially when salmon are in the river.
The Abbott Creek Campground, located near the Rogue River and north of Medford, offers beautiful views as well as picnic tables and restrooms. Rogue River Park also offers a picnic area and shelter. It also gives you easy access to hiking trails and fishing spots, a playground, and a tennis court.
There are many RV camping options near the Rogue River. River Park RV Resort offers large spaces, full hookups, and 700 feet of riverside camping. A laundry service and picnic tables at each site round out the amenities there. Moon Mountain RV also offers full hookups. This park, which is centrally located, has a quiet, secluded feel.
There are many Bureau of Land Management camping sites in the Wild Rogue Wilderness and the nearby Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. Dispersed camping is available along the river itself, but it requires a permit. While the camping here is rugged, pit toilets are available.
The Rogue Wild & Scenic River and the surrounding area are dramatic and beautiful. Going there is the perfect way to explore the Oregon wilderness. However, it can also be dangerous if certain precautions aren't taken. The trail junctions in the area are generally unmarked, and the slopes around the river can be incredibly steep, so plan ahead and take a map to help you stay on track. The area also offers a wide range of native flora and fauna to see. Remember to watch out for poison oak, which can cause a severe reaction. It's also important to keep an eye out for ticks and rattlesnakes. Mosquitos and yellow jackets are abundant during the warmer months. Using natural insect repellents can help to make your trip more enjoyable.
The area around the Rogue River is home to many black bears, and these bears have learned that campers often leave scraps. If you're planning to stay overnight, always hang your food out of reach.
Whenever you're heading out on an adventure to a remote area, it's important to plan ahead carefully. Most BLM sites offer stays of up to 14 days within a 28-day period, but it's a good idea to make sure this is the case wherever you plan to stay. As these sites don't often take reservations, calling ahead to ensure there's room can also be beneficial. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
All Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and natural sites are fragile, and it's important to protect and preserve them. Leaving no trace can help to do this. Always dispose of your trash properly or take it with you when you go. Don't attempt to get too close to the wildlife, and try to disturb the area as little as possible. Never take any rocks, plants, or animals home with you.
From Medford, take I-5 N from the OR-62 E. Continue for 18.1 miles before taking Exit 48 for the city of Rogue River. Turn right onto Depot Street, then make a quick left onto Pine Street. You'll take another quick left onto W. Main Street before turning right on Berglund Street. The Rogue River can be reached or viewed from several trails within the Wild Rogue Wilderness.
Ready to visit Rogue Wild & 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.
