Oregon Caves National Monument

Located in the Siskiyou Mountains of southwestern Oregon, the Oregon Caves National Monument is a captivating natural wonder that draws visitors from around the world. This unique monument encompasses a 480-acre area and is home to a stunning marble cave system that was formed through millions of years of geological processes.

The historical background of the Oregon Caves National Monument adds to its allure. The caves were originally discovered by a hunter named Elijah Davidson in 1874, but it was not until 1909 that the area was designated as a national monument by President William Taft. Since then, the monument has been a protected area, preserving its pristine beauty for generations to come.

One of the main attractions of the Oregon Caves National Monument is the elaborate cave system itself. Visitors can embark on cave tours, guided by knowledgeable park rangers, to explore the intricate underground passages adorned with intricate formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. These guided tours provide a unique opportunity to delve into the geological history and natural beauty of the caves while learning about the various species that inhabit them.

Beyond the caves, the national monument offers plenty of other activities to keep visitors engaged. The monument is nestled in the heart of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, providing ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting. The diverse forest ecosystem boasts an abundance of plant and animal species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the nearby Illinois River offers thrilling whitewater rafting and fishing opportunities. The surrounding area also provides numerous scenic drives, including the Redwood Highway, which passes through magnificent old-growth forests and provides stunning views of the landscape.

In summary, the Oregon Caves National Monument in Oregon offers an awe-inspiring exploration of an ancient marble cave system, immersing visitors in the geological wonders of the Siskiyou Mountains. With its rich historical background and an array of outdoor activities nearby, the monument provides a diverse and memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Oregon Caves National Monument is nestled within the heart of southwestern Oregon, specifically in the beautiful Siskiyou Mountains, just east of Cave Junction. This hidden gem is located amidst the dense and enchanting forests of the state, offering a serene escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The monument is situated in Josephine County, near the border with California, and is surrounded by lush greenery, magnificent old-growth trees, and cascading streams. The geological wonder of the cave system lies beneath the surface, where visitors can marvel at the intricate network of ancient underground passageways, stalactites, and stalagmites that have been formed over millions of years. The unique geographical location of Oregon Caves National Monument showcases the enchanting beauty and natural diversity that the state of Oregon has to offer.

Address & Contact

21000 Caves Hwy
Cave Junction, OR 97523
Driving Directions
Phone: 5415925125
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Oregon Caves National Monument would be from June to August. During this period, the average maximum temperature ranges from 82°F to 91°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average monthly precipitation is low, with values ranging from 0.3 to 1.4 inches, contributing to drier conditions. These months also attract a high number of visitors. Therefore, visiting during this timeframe would allow for enjoyable weather while also avoiding large crowds.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Oregon Caves National Monument are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Camping Car or Front Country Camping Hiking Front-Country Hiking Backcountry Hiking Hunting and Gathering Hunting Swimming RV Camping Dining Volunteer Vacation Citizen Science Caving Freshwater Swimming

Topics

Learn about these topics at Oregon Caves National Monument: Birds Caves, Caverns and Karst

Visitor Centers

Oregon Caves Visitor Center

Located at the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve; cave tour tickets, park store, exhibits and park information are available here.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Oregon Caves Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Oregon Caves National Monument

Cave Creek Campground

Sleep under the boughs of an old growth forest beside Cave Creek. This campground is located 15 miles up Highway 46 from Cave Junction and just four miles from the cave entrance. The campground has fire rings, water and vault toilets. The spaces are too small for large RVs or trailers and no pull through sites. The campground offers 17 sites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Maximum vehicle length: 20 feet.
Fees (US$): 10.00 (Campsite Fee)
Total Campsites: 17
Toilets: Vault Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Hotels within or near Oregon Caves National Monument

Holiday Inn Express Grants Pass, an IHG Hotel

Located in Grants Pass, Holiday Inn Express Grants Pass, an IHG Hotel is within a 5-minute drive of Rogue River and Grants Pass Welcome Center. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 105 Ne Agness Ave, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
Web: Link

Best Western Grants Pass Inn

Located in Grants Pass, Best Western Grants Pass Inn is in the business district, within a 5-minute drive of Rogue River and Grants Pass Welcome Center. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 111 Ne Agness Ave, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
Web: Link

Weasku Inn

Located in Grants Pass, Weasku Inn is on the waterfront, within a 10-minute drive of Schmidt House Museum and Grants Pass Downs. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Grants Pass? This lodge has facilities measuring 500 square feet (46 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 5560 Rogue River Hwy., Grants Pass, Oregon 97527
Web: Link

The Lodge at Riverside

When you stay at The Lodge at Riverside in Grants Pass, you'll be in the business district, just steps from Rogue River and 6 minutes by foot from Riverside Park. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Grants Pass? This hotel features 1836 square feet (165 square meters) of event facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 955 SE 7th Street, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
Web: Link

Riverside Inn

With a stay at Riverside Inn, you'll be centrally located in Grants Pass, steps from Rogue River and within a 10-minute walk of Riverside Park. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 986 S.W. 6th, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
Web: Link

Knight's Inn Motel

With a stay at Knight's Inn Motel in Grants Pass, you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Grants Pass Welcome Center and Grants Pass Museum of Art. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 104 SE 7th Street, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
Web: Link

Discovery Inn

With a stay at Discovery Inn in Grants Pass, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Rogue River and Schmidt House Museum. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 748 SE 7th St, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
Web: Link

Racing Horse Guest House~free Unlimited Golf

With a stay at this vacation home in Grants Pass, you'll be a 2-minute walk from Rogue River and within a 5-minute drive of Reinhart Volunteer Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 4300 Lower River Road, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
Web: Link

Racing Horse Ranch ~ Free Unlimited Golf!!!

With a stay at this cottage in Grants Pass, you'll be a 2-minute walk from Rogue River and within a 5-minute drive of Reinhart Volunteer Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 4300 Lower River Road, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
Web: Link

Racing Horse Ranch and Guest House ~ Free Golf!

With a stay at this cottage in Grants Pass, you'll be a 2-minute walk from Rogue River and within a 5-minute drive of Reinhart Volunteer Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 4300 Lower River Road, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526
Web: Link