National BLM > OR/WA > Prineville

Prineville District Events

National Public Lands Day, September 23 - 24, 2016

We are planning a fun-filled work day this year at Cottonwood Canyon State Park near Condon, Oregon for National Public Lands Day. We know it's a long way to travel so we're making it an overnight event!

Cottonwood Canyon State Park is rugged and vast, from the vertical cliffs carved by the John Day River to deep side canyons and arid, rocky grasslands that extend for miles in all directions. The park's 8,000-plus acres are open for exploring, stargazing and contemplating the elemental forces that carved this unique landscape. And now we get to help get the trail system started!

We need volunteers to join Prineville District BLM and Oregon State Parks to work on several projects around the park, including:

• Closing an area of user-created trail and adding a bench and a sign-board on the Hardstone Trail with information about a seasonal closure
• Create some river access trails and resting areas with benches
• Building a camping area for tent campers
• Pulling weeds and old wire from around the park

What is provided?

Volunteers will be able to camp Friday and Saturday night in the group use area at no charge.

• RV space will be available—dry camping only.
• The park has potable water and vault toilets.
• Food and refreshments provided for partners and volunteers.

We need you to bring gloves, sturdy shoes or boots, whatever gear you need to camp overnight, and a smile!

Where?

Cottonwood Canyon State Park is located on Highway 206 where the road crosses the John Day River between Condon and Wasco.

Schedule?

4:00 p.m. - Friday, September 23 - Volunteer arrival and registration
5:30 p.m. - Dinner and Evening Program

7:30 a.m. - Saturday, September 24 - Breakfast
8:30 - Check-in
9:00 - Assign groups and head off to projects!
3:00 p.m. - Wrap up

Volunteers are welcome to stay over Saturday night to enjoy the park after a hard day's work!