Umpqua National Forest Guide
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Umpqua National Forest is in a remote area of Southern Oregon near Roseburg. It is known for the thick forest, the many waterfalls, and the beautiful lakes. This protected area sits on the northwest border of Crater Lake National Park. It shares its name with the Umpqua River, which runs from the Oregon Coast Range, through the national forest and empties into the Pacific.
RV Rentals Near Umpqua National Forest
Umpqua National Forest Hiking Trails
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Toketee Falls Trail
Toketee Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Oregon, loved for its graceful formation in the two-step falls. The area is a beautifully forested trail with stunning views of the North Umpqua River along the way. The trail can tend to be a little damp or muddy, but the air is refreshing.
Length: 0.9 miles
Intensity: Easy
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Watson Falls Trail
The Watson Falls Trail is a popular trail near Clearwater leading to a 272-foot waterfall that is the third highest in the state. You cross a wooden bridge below the falls and have a fantastic view of the water rushing over the basalt lava cliffs ahead. You may get a little wet but walking through the lush forest and feeling the soft mist on your face is soothing and calming. This is a great place for a picnic.
Length: 1 mile
Intensity: Moderate
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Illahee Lookout Trail
The Illahee Lookout Trail is a short hike uphill that leads to spectacular views of Mount Thielsen and Bailey. It is a well-kept path with plenty of wildflowers. This area is gorgeous at dusk but be sure you have enough light to hike out safely before it gets too dark. The lookout itself is closed but you will thoroughly enjoy the area.
Length: 1.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Whitehorse Falls
This is a small walk, but it is ideal for a roadside picnic while you are exploring the area known as “Highway of the Waterfalls.” It is at a fairly high elevation so you may encounter some snow if you visit in winter or early spring. Have a nice lunch and then stretch your legs walking down the paved trail to the waterfall viewing platform. This is a fun area to explore.
Length: 0.1 miles
Intensity: Easy
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Lemolo Falls Trail
At the Lemolo Falls Trail, you can view the falls from two different sides. It is a beautiful sight from either side, cascading down 150 feet to the canyon below. You will see several impressive views of the cascading waters while you are headed up the trail. You will also find a few cool swimming spots along the way where you can at least dip your toes in the water.
Length: 4.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
Activities in Umpqua National Forest
The Umpqua National Forest is located on the western slopes of the Cascade Mountain range. It is comprised of 983,129 acres of thick forest that provides spectacular scenery. Visitors will find thundering waters, heart-stopping rapids, high mountain lakes, and serene ponds in the national forest's three wilderness areas: Boulder Creek Wilderness, Mt. Thielsen Wilderness, and Rogue-Umpqua Divide Wilderness. In these spots, you'll enjoy stands of western hemlock, cedar, and Douglas fir trees.
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Fishing
If you enjoy fishing, you will find many different kinds available in this forest. Anglers enjoy estuary fishing, ice fishing, and saltwater fishing. You will find rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, steelhead, or bass in a number of lakes, rivers, creeks, and ponds highlighted by Diamond Lake, Lemolo Lake, Umpqua River, and many more.
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Geocaching
Lots of trails in the area are participating in geocaching as well, so you can enjoy a fun way to explore the woods and maybe find a treasure.
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Nature Watching
Umpqua National Forest is home to over 250 species of wildlife. You may see larger animals like elk, deer, cougars, or black bears, as well as smaller critters like raccoons, squirrels, or foxes. There are also many beautiful birds in the area including eagles, owls, osprey, and peregrine falcons.
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Stargazing
You will easily find venues for stargazing. You need a wide-open area away from the city lights. One is the nearby lakes, including Crater Lake, which will probably be your best bet.
How to get to Umpqua National Forest
Address: 2900 NW Stewart Parkway, Roseburg, Oregon 97471
Fee: Five-Day Pass $10.0
Umpqua National Forest is one of the most beautiful areas in Oregon. It's full of a variety of conifers and plants, plenty of animal and birdlife. Within the national forest, you'll find lakes, rivers, and waterfalls where you can hike, camp, or fish. Enjoy all the activities available at Diamond Lake. You can also enjoy activities like mushroom hunting or huckleberry picking. Traveling by RV means you'll have the freedom to explore this rural area without being concerned about finding hotel accommodations in the wilderness. RVers will be free to enjoy a journey through some of Oregon’s most enjoyable outdoor areas.