Medford, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Medford District is closing the gate on Bear Camp Road, located near Galice, OR, on Monday, December 9. The gate, which is closed annually for public safety due to winter weather, will remain closed until snow conditions allow for safe passage in the spring. Travelers are advised to use Highway 199 as an alternate route.
Bear Camp Road, which is managed by both the BLM and the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest (RRSNF), is a remote, mountainous route that connects the Rogue Valley to coastal areas. It is not plowed during the winter, and weather conditions can often change quickly, making road conditions hazardous.
The BLM and the RRSNF remind the public that it is crucial to Know Before You Go this time of year.
- Be prepared: Bring additional warm clothing, water, and extra food to account for unexpectedly longer travel times.
- Carry chains, a flashlight, and proper attire to install the chains, should the need arise.
- Many routes and back country roads do not have cell service.
- In addition to paper maps, before you leave, download all of your public lands maps on Avenza, and know where you are at all times! Cell service is NOT necessary to use Avenza!
- District Maps and Motor Vehicle Use Maps are available online.
- Know Before You Go: Be aware of predicted weather and road conditions of major highways that provide access to your public lands. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather and road conditions. Know the predicted weather for your route and your destination, and how it can possibly affect your travel plans.
- Always let someone know your expected travel route.