Used Outdoor Gear Gets a Second Life
A new used outdoor goods and consignment store is now open in Klamath Falls, offering a place for residents to sell, donate and shop for gently used outdoor gear. The store was created to make outdoor recreation more affordable while keeping usable equipment, clothing and bikes in circulation.
Oregon State Parks Adds Digital Parking Permits
Oregon State Parks visitors now have a digital option for 12-month parking permits ahead of Memorial Day weekend. The new permits allow visitors to register up to two license plates, making the plate itself the proof of permit at state park day-use parking lots where fees are required.
BLM Fire Restrictions Begin May 14
Fire restrictions will begin May 14 on all BLM-administered lands in Oregon and Washington. The restrictions prohibit fireworks, exploding targets, certain ammunition, tracer and incendiary devices, and sky lanterns as officials warn of increasing heat and dryness across the Pacific Northwest.
Gerber And Topsy Campgrounds Open May 13
The Bureau of Land Management will open Gerber and Topsy campgrounds for the 2026 recreation season on Wednesday, May 13. The two Klamath-area public lands destinations offer camping, fishing, hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, and day-use access ahead of Memorial Day weekend.
Youth ATV and Motorcycle Safety Classes Set for Lakeview
Youth ages 6 through 15 can take part in hands-on ATV, motorcycle and side-by-side safety evaluation classes May 30 at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Lakeview. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office says pre-registration is required, a parent or guardian must be present, and riders must bring their own properly fitted vehicle and required safety gear.
Klamath Falls Named 2026 IMBA Trail Town
Klamath Falls has been named a 2026 IMBA Trail Town, a national designation recognizing communities that prioritize trail development, outdoor recreation access, and long-term stewardship. The city was one of just 28 selected nationwide and one of only two in Oregon, highlighting the growing role of trails in supporting tourism, economic development, and community engagement.
Mt. Ashland Pauses Ski Operations Indefinitely
Mt. Ashland Ski Area has paused all ski operations indefinitely beginning January 15 due to low snowpack, warm weather, and no snowfall forecasted.
Guided First Day Hikes Set for New Year’s Day Across Oregon
Oregon State Parks will welcome the new year with guided First Day Hikes at 25 parks statewide, offering free outdoor adventures for all experience levels.
Find Your Winter Adventure in Klamath
From snowmobiling and skiing to winter festivals, caving, and ice skating, Klamath County offers a wide range of cold-weather adventures for visitors looking to embrace winter in Southern Oregon.
Oregon State Parks to Host Winter Whale Watch Week Along the Coast
Oregon State Parks will host Winter Whale Watch Week from Dec. 27 through Dec. 31, offering visitors a chance to observe gray whales migrating south along the Oregon Coast with help from trained volunteers.
NPS Announces Digital Passes, Updated Pricing, and Expanded Access for 2026
The National Park Service is rolling out major changes for 2026, including digital America the Beautiful passes, updated annual pass artwork, expanded motorcycle benefits, and a revised pricing structure for U.S. residents and international visitors.
Free Fishing Returns; Crab Season Pushed Back
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has issued several updates ahead of the holiday weekend, including two statewide free fishing days, expanded public access on the restored Klamath River, and a coastwide delay to the commercial Dungeness crab season. Recreational crabbing and clamming remain open in many areas, while winter weather may affect river site access.
Oregon State Parks Completes Key Projects, Delays Others Amid Budget Strains
Oregon State Parks has completed several major improvement projects funded by 2021 GO Bonds, including upgrades at Beverly Beach, Nehalem Bay, and Fort Stevens. However, rising costs and a projected budget shortfall have forced the agency to delay multiple projects and redirect remaining funds to essential maintenance.
Outdoor Recreation on Public Lands Generates $351 Million a Day
Outdoor recreation on America’s public lands generates $351 million per day in economic activity, according to a new report from the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. Experts say it’s a sustainable economic powerhouse that outpaces drilling and mining.
Oregon State Parks Outlines Big Changes for 2026
Oregon State Parks has announced fee increases, policy changes, and new sustainability efforts for 2026, including higher parking costs and updated reservation rules. The changes aim to address a $14 million shortfall and ensure the long-term future of Oregon’s 250+ parks.