Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests
Crooked River National Grassland

Frequently Asked Questions

Special Areas

1. What is a Wilderness?    According to the Wilderness Act of 1964, wilderness areas are "where earth and its community of life remains untrammeled, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain". Wilderness protection will never be gained simply by issuing a set of rules and regulations. It must come with love and understanding of the land. Wilderness protection is a personal ethic. Some mark is left in Wilderness each time we visit, but each of us can make sure this mark is a small one. Minimum impact or no trace camping should be considered common sense behavior in the back country, but many people are not aware of what they leave behind.
2. What is a Wild and Scenic River and how many are located on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests?   The Wild and Scenic River designation allows for rivers to be preserved in a free-flowing state, protecting water quality and scenic beauty. Portions of seven Wild and Scenic Rivers are located on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests.
3. When does Newberry National Volcanic Monument open and close for the season?   The monument lands are open year round but access during the winter is quite limited. The Lava Land Visitor Center is usually open from early May to mid October. Lava River Cave is closed from November 1 to April 15 to protect hibernating bats in the cave. The campgrounds in Newberry Crater are usually open from May to October.