The Umpqua National Forest is a nature lover's paradise. Spanning over 1 million acres in Oregon, it is filled with lush forests, majestic mountains, and breathtaking landscapes. From the rushing rivers and cascading waterfalls to the expansive meadows and alpine lakes, there is something for everyone to explore in the Umpqua National Forest.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a thrilling adventure, this forest has it all.
Location and Getting There
The Umpqua National Forest is located in the southern part of Oregon, nestled between the Cascade Mountains and the Oregon Coast Range. It stretches from the North Umpqua River in the north to Diamond Lake in the south. With nearly a million acres of forest and mountain meadows, Umpqua National Forest offers an array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
Getting to the Umpqua National Forest is fairly easy. From Portland, take I-5 South for about 180 miles until you reach Roseburg. From Roseburg, take Oregon Route 138 East and follow the signs for Umpqua National Forest. If you're coming from the Eugene area, take I-5 North to Cottage Grove and then follow Oregon Route 58 East until you reach Roseburg.
The Umpqua National Forest is located close to many major landmarks, such as Crater Lake National Park, Tokatee Golf Course, and Diamond Lake Resort. It is also near several smaller towns, such as Glide, Tiller, and Idleyld Park. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure-filled day out in nature, the Umpqua National Forest is definitely worth exploring.
Things to Do
The Umpqua National Forest is an incredible destination for outdoor lovers of all kinds. From leisurely walks to more challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular things to do in the Umpqua National Forest.
One of the most popular destinations in the area is Toketee Lake. This glacial lake has crystal-clear water, making it perfect for swimming and fishing. There is also a trail that circles the lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The nearby Oregon Cascades is a great destination for hiking and climbing. One of the most popular trails is the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs through the area. The Pacific Crest Trail is one of the longest hikes in the United States and offers stunning views of the mountains, lakes, and valleys.
If you’re looking for something a bit less strenuous, Clearwater Falls is a great spot. Clearwater Falls has a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush forests and meadows. It’s a popular spot for swimming, as well as for picnicking and wildlife watching.
Umpqua National Forest also has several campgrounds, including the Green Water Campground, which offers easy access to both Toketee Lake and Clearwater Falls. Camping is a great way to get away from it all and enjoy nature at its finest.
For those who want to explore further afield, there are plenty of nearby attractions as well. Diamond Lake Resort is just an hour away and offers access to mountain biking, boating, and other activities. Crater Lake National Park is just two hours away and is home to the deepest lake in the United States. And just four hours away is Bend, Oregon—a great city to explore with lots of shops, restaurants, breweries, and more.
No matter what your interests are, the Umpqua National Forest has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway, this beautiful forest will not disappoint!
Camping
If you’re looking for a great outdoor experience, the Umpqua National Forest camping has something for everyone. Located in the heart of Oregon's Cascade Mountains, the Umpqua National Forest offers some of the best camping in the country. The park features hundreds of sites with breathtaking views and easy access to a variety of activities like hiking, fishing, biking, and more.
One of the most popular campgrounds in the Umpqua National Forest is Toketee Lake Campground. This scenic spot is located on the south side of Toketee Lake, just 12 miles north of Roseburg.
With its beautiful mountain views, Toketee Lake Campground is a great spot to spend an overnight or even several days in nature. The campground offers up to 11 primitive campsites with picnic tables and fire rings, as well as restrooms and potable water. It costs $16 per night to camp here.
Another popular campground to the west of Umpqua National Forest is Salmon Harbor Campground. This campground is located at the mouth of the Smith River and is a great spot for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Here, you can find up to 10 primitive campsites with picnic tables and fire rings, as well as pit toilets and potable water. It costs $20 per night to camp at Salmon Harbor Campground.
For those seeking a more secluded camping experience, the Umpqua National Forest also offers a number of wilderness camping areas. These sites offer up to 25 primitive campsites with fire rings and no other amenities. Wilderness camping in the Umpqua National Forest is free of charge.
No matter what kind of camping experience you're after, the Umpqua National Forest offers something for everyone. With its stunning views and abundant recreational opportunities, it's no wonder that so many people enjoy camping here every year.
Fishing and Hunting
The Umpqua National Forest is a stunning expanse of lush forests and crystal-clear rivers, and it’s the perfect place to spend a day fishing and hunting. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced angler, you can find plenty of great spots to cast a line in the Umpqua National Forest.
The main rivers that flow through the Umpqua National Forest are the North Umpqua River and its tributaries, like Boulder Creek and the Little River. These rivers are home to a variety of fish species, including Chinook salmon, cutthroat trout, steelhead, rainbow trout, and brown trout. In addition to the rivers, there are numerous lakes and ponds where you can try your luck.
If you’re looking for a hunting spot, there are plenty of places to explore as well. In the Umpqua National Forest, you can hunt blacktail deer, elk, and Rocky Mountain goats. The forest is also home to several game birds, including grouse, quail, and pheasant. Please remember to follow all applicable laws and regulations when hunting in the Umpqua National Forest.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started with fishing, the Umpqua National Forest is a great destination for a memorable day out. With its stunning scenery and plentiful fish and game, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience. So grab your gear and head out to explore this amazing natural paradise.
Hiking
The Umpqua National Forest is a stunning and serene part of the Pacific Northwest, boasting incredible hikes for all levels of ability. Here are some of the most popular trails that the forest has to offer:
1. Acker Divide Trail - This moderately difficult trail offers a 7.6-mile round trip through the forest, with beautiful views of mountain ridges and glacial peaks. The trailhead starts near High Prairie and takes hikers past old-growth forests and wildflowers. Experienced hikers will enjoy the challenge of this trail, but beginners should keep an eye on the changing terrain.
2. Toketee Falls - This beautiful waterfall is accessible via a short 2-mile hike from the parking lot at Toketee Lake. The trail is relatively flat, making it ideal for beginning hikers and families. On the way, you'll be able to see the incredible blue-green waters of the lake and get up close views of the magnificent 120-foot double-tiered waterfall.
3. Clearwater Falls Trail - This easy 1-mile loop trail follows the Umpqua River and offers breathtaking views of the nearby mountain ranges and rolling hills. This trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers several rest stops along the way. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as elk, deer, and black bears!
The Umpqua National Forest is a great place to explore and get lost in nature. Whether you're a beginner hiker or an experienced outdoorsman, there are plenty of trails to choose from that offer stunning landscapes and a variety of difficulty levels. So come on out and experience the beauty of this unique national forest!
Wildlife Viewing
The Umpqua National Forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife. From bald eagles to cougars, visitors can get an up-close and personal look at some of the region’s most fascinating creatures.
One of the rare animals found in the forest is the Fisher Cat. This large weasel-like animal is primarily nocturnal and can be seen searching for food along rivers and creeks. Some other rare sightings include pine martens, northern spotted owls, and great grey owls.
More common animals that call the Umpqua National Forest home are black-tailed deer, coyotes, American mink, and river otters. The best place to view these animals is in the open meadows and marshlands of the forest, where they often come out to graze or hunt.
It is important to remember that while visiting the Umpqua National Forest, it is essential to leave no trace of your presence.
This means disposing of all trash properly, not disturbing or interfering with any animals, and refraining from picking any plants or flowers. Taking care of our environment is key to keeping these creatures safe and protected.
Facts about Umpqua National Forest
The Umpqua National Forest is a majestic sight to behold. Located in the Cascade Mountains of southwestern Oregon, it's home to an abundance of wildlife, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities. Here are some interesting facts about the Umpqua National Forest that should engage readers:
1. The Umpqua National Forest was established in 1907 and covers over 1.6 million acres of land, making it the largest national forest in Oregon.
2. The Umpqua is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, black bear, cougar, and numerous species of birds and fish.
3. The Umpqua National Forest is known for its stunning vistas and offers visitors breathtaking views of the Cascade Range and the nearby Pacific Ocean.
4. The Umpqua has four designated wilderness areas that offer remote backcountry adventure, including the North Umpqua Wild and Scenic River Corridor, Diamond Peak Wilderness, Boulder Creek Wilderness, and Glide Wild and Scenic River Corridor.
5. The Umpqua also features numerous recreation opportunities, including camping, fishing, hunting, biking, horseback riding, and hiking on over 800 miles of trails.
6. The Umpqua National Forest is home to numerous hot springs, providing a natural setting for relaxation and healing.
We hope these facts have piqued your interest in discovering all that the Umpqua National Forest has to offer. From its wild beauty to its diverse wildlife and recreational activities, there is something for everyone in this amazing place.
FAQs
What kind of activities can I do in the Umpqua National Forest?
There are many different outdoor activities to enjoy in the Umpqua National Forest. You can explore miles of trails on foot or horseback, go camping, and fish for trout, salmon, and steelhead. There are also many lakes, rivers, and waterfalls to discover. For those looking for a thrill, the Umpqua National Forest is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in Oregon.
What wildlife can I find in the Umpqua National Forest?
The Umpqua National Forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, black bears, coyotes, and mountain lions. Birdwatchers will find plenty to keep them occupied as well, with over 200 species of birds living in the area.
Are there any nearby towns I can visit?
Yes, there are several small towns located near the Umpqua National Forest. Roseburg is the largest town nearby, located just 20 miles away. Other small towns include Glide, Idleyld Park, and Winchester.
Is the Umpqua National Forest open year-round?
Yes, the Umpqua National Forest is open year-round for visitors to enjoy. However, certain roads and facilities may be closed during certain times of the year due to weather conditions. It's best to check with the local ranger station for specific details.