Best Tent Camping: Oregon. Becky Ohlsen
PLANTS
Recognizing poison ivy, oak, and sumac and avoiding contact with them are the most effective ways to prevent the painful, itchy rashes associated with these plants. Poison ivy ranges from a thick, tree-hugging vine to a shaded ground cover, 3 leaflets to a leaf; poison oak occurs as either a vine or shrub, with 3 leaflets as well; and poison sumac flourishes in swampland, each leaf containing 7–13 leaflets. Urushiol, the oil in the sap of these plants, is responsible for the rash. Usually within 12–14 hours of exposure (but sometimes much later), raised lines and/or blisters will appear, accompanied by a terrible itch. Refrain from scratching because bacteria under fingernails can cause infection. Wash and dry the rash thoroughly, applying a calamine lotion or other product to help dry out the rash. If itching or blistering is severe, seek medical attention. Remember that oil-contaminated clothes, pets, or hiking gear can easily cause an irritating rash on you or someone else, so wash not only any exposed parts of your body but also clothes, gear, and pets.
photographed by Jane Huber
Poison oak
MOSQUITOES
Mosquitoes are common in Oregon, especially from spring through mid-summer. Though it’s very rare, individuals can become infected with the West Nile virus by being bitten by an infected mosquito. Culex mosquitoes, the primary varieties that can transmit West Nile virus to humans, thrive in urban rather than natural areas. They lay their eggs in stagnant water and can breed in any standing water that remains for more than five days. Most people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms of illness, but some may become ill, usually 3–15 days after being bitten.
Anytime you expect mosquitoes to be buzzing around, you may want to wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, long pants, and socks. Loose-fitting, light-colored clothing is best. Spray clothing with insect repellent. Remember to follow the instructions on the repellent and to take extra care to protect children against these insects.
SNAKES
Rattlesnakes, corals, copperheads, and cottonmouths are among the most common venomous snakes in the United States, and hibernation season is typically October–April.
In some of the regions described in this book, you may encounter rattlesnakes. They like to bask in the sun and won’t bite unless threatened. Most of the snakes you will see while hiking, however, will be nonvenomous species and subspecies. The best rule is to leave all snakes alone, give them a wide berth as you hike past, and make sure any hiking companions (including dogs) do the same.
photographed by Jane Huber
Rattlesnake
When hiking, stick to well-used trails, and wear over-the-ankle boots and loose-fitting long pants. Do not step or put your hands beyond your range of detailed visibility, and avoid wandering around in the dark. Step onto logs and rocks, never over them, and be especially careful when climbing rocks. Always avoid walking through dense brush or willow thickets.
TICKS
Ticks are often found on brush and tall grass, where they seem to be waiting to hitch a ride on a warm-blooded passerby. Adult ticks are most active April–May and again October–November. Among the varieties of ticks, the black-legged tick, commonly called the deer tick, is the primary carrier of Lyme disease, but documented cases of Lyme in Oregon are extremely rare. Ticks here are more a nuisance than a serious health risk (although tick bites always carry the risk of infection, so properly disinfecting the area is key). Wear light-colored clothing to make it easier for you to spot ticks before they migrate to your skin. At the end of the hike, visually check your hair, back of neck, armpits, and socks. During your posthike shower, take a moment to do a more complete body check. For ticks that are already embedded, removal with tweezers is best. Grasp the tick close to your skin, and remove it by pulling straight out firmly. Do your best to remove the head, but do not twist. Use disinfectant solution on the wound.
ROADS & VEHICLES
Many of the campgrounds in this book are reached by minimally maintained access roads. Additionally, some access roads are closed during winter, opening only once the snow is cleared. Always inquire about current road conditions before venturing too far, especially early or late in the season or if there have been recent wildfires in the area.
Be sure that you have a current road atlas with you. The maps in this book are designed to help orient you, nothing more. Although we’ve provided directions at the end of each entry, you’ll still need a proper map of the area. The local and district offices that oversee most of these campgrounds are the best source for detailed maps (see Appendix B for more information on these agencies).
RESTRICTIONS & PERMITS
State and federal agencies manage most of the campgrounds in this book. Check with the proper authorities for current regulations on recreational activities, such as permits for day-use parking, backcountry travel, hunting and fishing, mountain bikes in designated areas, and so on. Many day-use areas in Oregon require a fee; these are often covered by the annual Northwest Forest Pass, available online (store.usgs.gov/forest-pass), at ranger stations, or from many outdoor retailers. We have included some restrictions in the Key Information sections of each campground description, but because restrictions can change, you still need to check before you go.
FIRES
Campfire regulations are subject to seasonal conditions. Usually signs are posted at campgrounds or ranger district offices. Please be aware of the current situation and NEVER make a campfire anywhere other than in existing fire rings at developed sites. Never, ever toss a match or cigarette idly in the brush or alongside the road. It’s not only littering, but it can also trigger the incineration of that beautiful forest you were just admiring.
WATER
Many of the campgrounds in this book are remote enough that piped water is not available. No matter how remote you may think you are, though, don’t risk drinking straight from mountain streams, creeks, and lakes. Oregon has some of the purest natural waters in the world, but it is not immune to that nasty parasite called Giardia lamblia, which causes horrific stomach cramps and long-term diarrhea. If you don’t have drinking water or purification tablets with you, boil any untreated water for a full minute, or at least three minutes in high altitude.
CAMPGROUND ETIQUETTE
Here are a few tips on how to create good vibes with fellow campers and wildlife you encounter.
• MAKE SURE YOU CHECK IN, PAY YOUR FEE, AND MARK YOUR SITE AS DIRECTED. Don’t make the mistake of grabbing a seemingly empty site that looks more appealing than your site. It could be reserved. If you’re unhappy with the site you’ve selected, check with the campground host for other options.
• BE SENSITIVE TO THE GROUND BENEATH YOU. Be sure to place all garbage in designated receptacles or pack it out if none are available. No one likes to see the trash someone else has left behind.
• IT’S COMMON FOR ANIMALS TO WANDER THROUGH CAMPSITES, where they may be accustomed to the presence of humans (and our food). An unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise startles most animals. A surprised animal can be dangerous to you, to others, and to themselves. Give them plenty of space. Use bear-proof food boxes when they are available.
• PLAN AHEAD. Know your equipment, your ability, and the area where you are camping—and prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times; carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to you and to others.
• BE COURTEOUS TO OTHER CAMPERS, hikers, bikers, and anyone else you encounter.
• STRICTLY FOLLOW THE CAMPGROUND’S RULES REGARDING THE BUILDING OF FIRES—and keep in mind that these may change depending on seasonal fire risk levels.