Oregon Hikers

Date: May 20, 2020

Deschutes National Forest to open most day-use recreation sites

Majority of day-use and boating sites to open with no services, but some still closed



Bend, Ore.- Prior to Memorial Day weekend, the Deschutes National Forest will open most developed day-use sites and boat ramps on the national forest. The public should be aware that those remaining closed have hazard trees that need to be addressed for public safety or still have snow.

“I am happy to share that we are opening many of our boat launches and trailheads on the Forest that provide access to the landscape and recreation we all enjoy so much” said Forest Supervisor Holly Jewkes. “We appreciate your understanding as we work to restore services to these sites. In the meantime, we will not be charging day use fees.”

The specific status of each site on the Deschutes National Forest can be found in the table attached to this press release. The table will be updated daily on the Deschutes website (www.fs.usda.gov/main/deschutes/home).

Though these sites are considered open to the public, restrooms will not be regularly cleaned or maintained, nor will garbage services be provided at this time. The public should be prepared to recreate responsibly without these services, and remember “pack it in, pack it out” and put campfires dead out.

This weekend is the initial phase of developed recreation sites opening on the Deschutes National Forest. All campgrounds on the Deschutes National Forest remain closed. Dispersed camping is still allowed.

“We are working to open our first campgrounds on the forest the first weekend in June, as we address safety issues and get campground host staffing and services in place,” said Jewkes.

Though these sites are considered open to the public, restrooms will not be regularly cleaned or maintained, nor will garbage services be provided at this time.