Description
- There are many attractions on the district including the Bridge
Creek Wilderness, the Big Summit Prairie, the upper reaches of
the North Fork Crooked River Wild and Scenic River and the
Lookout Mountain Management Area. A herd of wild horses also
roams the district.
Recreation - The Big Summit Ranger District offers opportunities for a variety
of outdoor recreation activities including camping, picnicking,
fishing, backpacking, horseback riding, hunting, four-wheel
driving, motorcycle and ATV riding, cross-country skiing and
snowmobiling.
For camping on the Ochoco, developed campsites provide
vehicle spaces, picnic tables, and fire grills, however, drinking
water is not always available. Come prepared and bring water
with you. Electrical hookups and showers are not provided.
Camping is on a first-come first-served basis except for group
sites. If you prefer "roughing" it and you discover a nice spot,
feel free to camp. Please pack out your garbage, and be sure
your campfire is out before you leave.
Picnic and overnight camping sites suitable for groups are
available by contacting the Ranger District office for
reservations.
The forest is a winter playground for many people. There
are areas suitable for cross-country ski touring, snowmobiling,
snowshoeing, and sledding. The most use occurs above 5,000
feet, near three Sno-Parks located on U.S. Highway 26. Oregon
State Sno-Park permits are required for parking. Permits are
available at the Prineville Motor Vehicle Division and Ochoco
National Forest Headquarters. The open country, developed
trails, and some back roads closed by snow to vehicle traffic are
open for snowmobiling and skiing. Snow-covered roads
surrounding Big Summit Prairie offer marked trails and large
loops, which are especially suitable for snowmobile uses. Climate - With a large elevation range, climate on the Ochoco changes
depending on elevation. The high elevations receive much more
precipitation and colder temperatures. Much of the precipitation
comes from October to April, mostly in the form of snow in the
higher elevations. Winter temperatures can drop well below zero
degrees Fahrenheit. Late spring, summer and early autumn tend
to bring clear, sunny days, with warm to hot temperatures at the
low elevations and moderate temperatures at the higher
elevations. Summer afternoon thunderstorms are not
uncommon. Location -
The Big Summit Ranger District is located in central oregon to
the east of Prineville. Highway 26 runs through the northwest
section of the district.
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