US Forestry Department

For residents of Oregon, understanding the vital role of the US Forestry Department is key to unlocking some of the state's most magnificent natural areas. While "US Forestry Department" at 47201 OR-62, Prospect, OR 97536, USA, specifically refers to the High Cascades Ranger District office of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, this location serves as a crucial hub for accessing and understanding the incredible recreational opportunities available in this vast and diverse region. This is where the magic of a "managed forest" comes to life, demonstrating how preservation and sustainable harvest can exist in harmony, providing both a cherished recreation area and essential forest products for our nation.

This Ranger District office acts as your primary point of contact for information regarding the many campgrounds, trails, and activities within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. It's more than just an office; it's a gateway to an expansive natural playground where clear streams teem with trout, trails open onto sweeping meadows, and wildlife sightings, from deer and elk to countless birds, are a common delight. The dedication of the Forest Service, in partnership with local communities, ensures that this area remains a vibrant ecosystem for both nature and people. Whether you're planning a quiet camping trip, an adventurous hike, or simply a scenic drive through breathtaking landscapes, the resources available through the US Forestry Department are invaluable for making the most of your Oregon outdoor experience.

The US Forestry Department office for the High Cascades Ranger District is conveniently located at 47201 OR-62, Prospect, OR 97536, USA. This strategic position places it directly on Oregon Route 62, a major thoroughfare that leads directly to iconic destinations like Crater Lake National Park. For many Oregonians, this office is easily accessible by car, serving as a vital stop before venturing deeper into the surrounding national forest.

Prospect itself is a small, charming town in Southern Oregon, known as a gateway to the wild and scenic beauty of the Upper Rogue River corridor. From major population centers, accessing this location is straightforward:

• From Medford: Take OR-62 (Crater Lake Highway) northeast directly to Prospect. The drive is approximately 30-40 minutes, offering pleasant views as you leave the Rogue Valley.

• From Klamath Falls: Travel north on US-97, then head west on OR-62 towards Crater Lake National Park and continuing on to Prospect. This route offers stunning scenery, especially as you approach the national park area.

• From Portland/Salem (Northern Oregon): This would be a longer journey, typically involving Interstate 5 South to Medford, then following the directions from Medford. The drive itself showcases the diverse landscapes of Oregon, from the Willamette Valley to the Southern Cascade Mountains.

The office's location on a state highway ensures easy year-round access, though visitors should always be mindful of seasonal weather conditions, especially during winter months when snow can affect higher elevations within the forest. This accessibility makes it a practical and essential first stop for local users planning any recreational activities in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.

While this location isn't a campground itself, it provides essential services that directly support visitors to the many campgrounds and recreational areas within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. These services include:

• Information and Maps: Obtain detailed maps of the national forest, including trail maps, campground locations, and information on various recreational opportunities. Staff can provide guidance on current conditions, road closures, and specific regulations.

• Wilderness Permits and Reservations: Learn about and acquire any necessary permits for wilderness travel or make reservations for specific campgrounds via Recreation.gov. Staff can assist with understanding the reservation process and availability.

• Fire Restrictions Updates: Get the latest information on fire danger levels and restrictions, which are crucial for safe camping and preventing wildfires, especially during dry seasons.

• Recreational Activity Guidance: Receive advice on suitable trails for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding, popular fishing spots in local rivers and streams (like the Rogue River and its tributaries), and areas for wildlife viewing.

• Forest Product Information: For those interested, the office can provide information on regulations and permits for gathering forest products, such as firewood or mushrooms, in designated areas.

• General Forest Management Information: Gain insight into how the Forest Service manages the land for both conservation and sustainable use, offering an educational aspect to your visit.

The region managed by this US Forestry Department office is rich with natural features and highlights that make it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts:

• Diverse Wildlife: As highlighted by a reviewer, the forest is teeming with "deer, elk, and dozens of other animals and birds." This makes for fantastic wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.

• Pristine Waterways: The "streams are clear and full of trout," making the area a paradise for anglers. The Rogue River, a federally designated Wild and Scenic River, offers exceptional fishing, rafting, and scenic beauty.

• Extensive Trail Network: "The trails open on to sweeping meadows" and lead to various natural wonders. The Upper Rogue River Trail is a prime example, offering miles of scenic hiking alongside the river, including access to geological formations like the Rogue Gorge and Natural Bridge.

• Natural Bridge: A "sight to behold," the Natural Bridge is where the Rogue River disappears underground into a lava tube, only to re-emerge further downstream. Interpretive trails allow visitors to witness this unique geological phenomenon.

• Scenic Drives: The Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway, often called "Highway of Waterfalls," is easily accessible from Prospect, offering breathtaking views, numerous waterfalls, and access to trailheads and campgrounds.

• Proximity to Crater Lake National Park: Being on OR-62 means the iconic Crater Lake National Park is a relatively short and scenic drive away, making it easy to combine a forest adventure with a visit to Oregon's only national park.

• Four-Season Beauty: Reviewers note the beauty of "driving through here during the winter," indicating that the area offers recreational opportunities and stunning vistas year-round, from snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter to hiking and camping in warmer months.

Address: 47201 OR-62, Prospect, OR 97536, USA

Phone: (541) 560-3400

Mobile Phone: +1 541-560-3400

This phone number is for the High Cascades Ranger District office, which is the direct point of contact for information regarding the campgrounds and recreational areas in the Prospect vicinity of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.

For Oregon residents, the US Forestry Department office in Prospect serves as an invaluable resource and gateway to one of the state's most cherished natural assets: the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. Its accessibility on a major highway makes it a convenient first stop for planning any outdoor adventure, providing essential maps, information, and updates directly from the land managers.

What makes this area particularly suitable for locals is its profound demonstration of a "managed forest where preservation and harvest are in harmony." This showcases a sustainable approach to land management that resonates deeply with Oregon's environmental values, offering a place where visitors can witness the balance between human needs and ecological health. The ability to see abundant wildlife, fish in clear, trout-filled streams, and hike trails leading to "sweeping meadows and natural bridge" provides a diverse range of activities that cater to all ages and interests.

Furthermore, the proximity to other iconic Oregon destinations like Crater Lake National Park and the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway means that a visit to this area can easily be part of a larger, multi-day exploration of Southern Oregon's natural wonders. Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a family looking for a memorable weekend camping trip, the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, facilitated by the dedicated work of the US Forestry Department, offers an authentic and enriching experience that truly embodies the spirit of Oregon's natural heritage.

US Forestry Department

47201 OR-62, Prospect, OR 97536, USA