Wood River Wetland

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

The Wood River Wetland is a 3,200-acre wetland forming part of the delta of the Wood River near Agency Lake. Taken over by the Bureau of Land Management in 1994, the wetland area is today a popular recreation destination. Located 26 miles north of Klamath Falls, the wetland is a fishing paradise for novice and experienced anglers. This BLM site also offers biking, hiking, wildlife viewing, and hunting opportunities. The Bureau of Land Management is a federal agency that's charged with maintaining and administering U.S. public lands. You can find a number of BLM RV camping opportunities on the 3.2 million acres that the BLM oversees in Oregon and Washington. To find other outstanding Bureau of Land Management sites close to the wetland area, search "BLM camping near me." Wood River Wetland is about 16 miles south of Crater Lake National Park. Alternatively, you can drive to Lassen Volcanic National Park, located about 190 miles south.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Wood River Wetland Trail

This out-and-back route in the Wood River Wetland area gives you the opportunity to see various birds living in this area. The Wood River Wetland Trail is pet-friendly and open for hiking throughout the year. Length: 9.9 miles Intensity: Moderate

Lower Klamath Basin Trail

Hiking this trail allows you to see millions of waterfowl bird species like the courting grebes and geese. Length: 2.1 miles Intensity: Moderate

Klamath Geo Trail

The Klamath Geo Trail is another worthy hiking trail near the Wood River Wetland area. The walking path, which is also open for snowshoeing, offers scenic views of the Klamath Basin. Length: 2 miles Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

The Wood River Wetland and the Wood River are excellent fishing spots abundant with brown and rainbow trout. Fly fishing is the most common method that anglers use to catch fish in this area. Kayakers and canoeists will be happy to know that there is a hand-carry boat launch at the wetland entrance from where you can paddle to the river.

Wildlife Viewing

The Wood River Wetland is home to a variety of wildlife species. Beavers, marmots, muskrats, and river otters are often sighted on the waterways. Additionally, this area is famous for thousands of shorebirds, waterfowl, land birds, and raptors. Birds frequently seen in this BLM site include bald eagles, great egrets, wood ducks, and yellow warblers.

Picnicking

This Bureau of Land Management site is a fantastic place for a picnic. You will appreciate having lunch at the designated picnic area while catching the beautiful vistas of Agency Lake. The picnic site is fully equipped with tables, benches, and clean water to enhance your picnicking experience.

Waterfowl Hunting

This day-use area is open for waterfowl hunting all year round. BLM requires hunters to carry the right equipment and follow all hunting rules. This site prohibits the use of pit blinds and permanent structures.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Since no campgrounds exist in the Wood River Wetland, you can go RV camping at the Fremont-Winema National Forest, which has more than 40 Bureau of Land Management campgrounds spread over seven districts. Odessa Campground, situated about half an hour west of Klamath Falls, has six RV-friendly sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and a vault toilet. Another RV camping area nearby is Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground, with 22 campsites, potable water, and six vault toilets.

Free Camping

If you prefer free camping in undeveloped sites, the areas around the Wood River Wetland have many Bureau of Land Management free camping facilities. One place to consider is Eagle Ridge Park, which is a beautiful spot near a handful of walking trails and a boat launch. Dispersed camping is also possible in the Lower Buck Creek Forest Camp. Despite lacking necessary amenities like toilets and drinking water, this area offers terrific views and fishing opportunities.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Wood River Wetland BLM trip

Always plan your tour of the Wood River Wetland, knowing this BLM site opens daily two hours before sunrise and half an hour past sunset. You should also remember that this place does not offer camping opportunities within its borders, so you must look for alternative sites nearby. Acquire all the required permits and licenses prior to entering this BLM site so that you do not encounter issues. Additionally, carry enough clothing, food, and other essential items. Before you head out on your trip, check our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Since the Wood River Wetland is a protected public land, BLM requires guests to follow all stipulated "Leave No Trace" guidelines. Always collect and dispose of your garbage correctly. Manage human and pet waste by burying it at least six inches in the ground and over 100 feet away from waterbodies and trails. Never damage vegetation and resist from interfering with wildlife. Lastly, be considerate of other guests exploring this BLM site. Following these guidelines will surely go a long way in conserving this public recreation area.

Wood River Wetland Location

The Wood River Wetland is situated nearly 30 miles north of Klamath Falls, Oregon. From the city, drive north on Highway 97 for approximately 14 miles. Go left onto Modoc Road and continue driving north for another 12 miles, where you will find the Wood River Wetland entrance sign. Klamath Falls Field Office Address: 2795 Anderson Avenue, Bldg. #25, Klamath Falls, OR 97603

Ready to visit Wood River Wetland? 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.