Lower White River Wilderness

The White River rises in the high Cascades in western Wasco County, in the Mount Hood National Forest on the southeast flank of Mount Hood. The headwaters are just below White River Glacier in White River Canyon. Additions to the Mount Hood Wilderness protect upper portions of the river, while the Lower White River Wilderness, southeast of the majestic Mount Hood Wilderness and east of Highway 26, protect a segment of lower White River stretch. Mount Hood Wilderness protects upper portions of the river, while the 2,809-acre Lower White River Wilderness, southeast of the Mount Hood Wilderness and east of highway 26, provides a buffer for a lower segment of the river. There are no maintained trails within Lower White River Wilderness but the Keeps Mill Campground is located just west of the Lower White River Wilderness.The United States Congress designated the Lower White River Wilderness in 2009 and it now has a total of 2,806 acres. All of this wilderness is located in Oregon and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service.Be sure to contact the BLM's Prineville District or the Mt. Hood National Forest for the latest conditions and access to the spectacular Lower White River Wilderness Area!Leave No Trace principlesPlan Ahead and PrepareTravel and Camp on Durable SurfacesDispose of Waste ProperlyLeave What You FindMinimize Campfire ImpactsRespect WildlifeBe Considerate of Other VisitorsRegulationsMotorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters, unless provided for in specific legislation. In a few areas some exceptions allowing the use of motorized equipment or mechanical transport are described in the special regulations in effect for a specific area. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.Know Before You GoVisitors can help in protecting this fragile ecosystem by adequately planning and by arriving prepared! Knowledge of the area, weather, terrain, and common sense can help to ensure you have safe, fun, and memorable trip to the wild. Trail junctions are generally unsigned, so you should carry a map and a compass. And always be sure to bring your ten essentials!