Ochoco National Forest

Occupying 846,000 acres of Oregon's high desert transition zone in the central Blue Mountains, Ochoco National Forest is defined by magnificent old-growth ponderosa pines, ancient juniper woodlands, and remarkable geologic formations that set it apart from Oregon's more famous Cascade forests. Stein's Pillar, a 350-foot volcanic rock spire rising from the forest floor, is the forest's most iconic landmark and a popular technical rock climbing destination. The Mill Creek Wilderness protects 17,400 acres of rugged canyon country with clear mountain streams supporting native redband trout, while the Black Canyon Wilderness offers remote backcountry experiences in steep, densely forested gorges. Wild horses roam the Big Summit Horse Territory on the forest's high plateau grasslands, one of several herds managed on public lands in eastern Oregon. The forest's relatively low visitation compared to western Oregon forests means trails and campgrounds offer genuine solitude, particularly during weekdays and shoulder seasons. Ochoco's extensive network of forest roads provides access to excellent dispersed camping, rockhounding for thunder eggs and agates, and hunting for elk, mule deer, and upland birds across the open ponderosa parklands.