Summary
The area is known for its beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich history. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and whitewater rafting.
One of the main attractions in the area is Hells Canyon itself, which is the deepest canyon in North America. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway or hike one of the many trails that offer stunning views of the canyon and surrounding landscape.
Other notable points of interest in the area include the Snake River, the Imnaha River, and the Wallowa Mountains. The area is also home to several historic sites, such as the Kirkwood Ranch and the Hells Canyon Dam.
Interesting facts about the area include that it was once home to several Native American tribes, including the Nez Perce. The area has also been used for mining, logging, and ranching over the years.
The best time of year to visit Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the outdoor activities are plentiful. However, visitors should be prepared for hot temperatures, and should also be aware of the potential for wildfires in the area.
Overall, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is a great destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of Oregon.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Copperfield Park
McCormick Park
McCormick Park - Hells Canyon National Rec Area
McCormick Campgrounds
Hells Canyon Park - Hells Canyon National Rec Area
Fish Lake Campground