Media Advisory: BLM Celebrates Freedom 250 With Public Events Across Oregon - 05/20/26

What:

The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence through three public events across Oregon in 2026. The events foster a deeper appreciation of our nation’s past, the beauty and value of public lands, and the work it takes to sustain the health and productivity of these lands for the use and enjoyment of generations to come.

The events are part of the national Freedom 250 commemoration and also recognize the BLM’s 80th anniversary of public land stewardship.

Media interviews and on-site visuals will be available at all three events.

Featured Freedom 250 Events:

1. Oregon Trail Days – Baker City, Ore.

When: Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT

Where: Geiser-Pollman Park, Baker City, Ore.

The signature Freedom 250 event for BLM Oregon/Washington, Oregon Trail Days transforms Geiser-Pollman Park into an immersive Oregon Trail experience featuring wagon rides, storytelling, live demonstrations, music, crafts, and games.
 

The free, family-friendly celebration highlights the role public lands play in preserving the landscapes and stories tied to America’s westward expansion. Additional programming will also take place at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center throughout the weekend.

2. Wood River Wetland Volunteer Day – Near Klamath Falls, Ore.

When: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PT

Where: Wood River Wetland, approximately 30 miles north of Klamath Falls, Ore.

This Freedom 250 volunteer event invites the community to assist with invasive weed removal and restoration work on public lands.

The event highlights the continued role Americans play in caring for public lands through volunteerism and stewardship.

3. Victorian Holiday Celebration – Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

When: Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT

Where: Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, near Newport, Ore.

This coastal Freedom 250 event connects visitors to Oregon’s maritime history through a Victorian-themed holiday celebration at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse.

Activities may include caroling, historical parlor games, ornament crafts, interpretive storytelling, and live music.

Why:

As a dedicated custodian of America’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage, the Bureau of Land Management in Oregon and Washington proudly celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence with the nation.

From iconic landmarks like Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area to the historic Oregon Trail, BLM-administered public lands represent the spirit of the nation’s foundational principles. These events honor stories of exploration, resilience, stewardship, and public service woven throughout America’s history.

RSVP:

Media interested in attending any Freedom 250 event should contact Samantha Ducker at BLM_OR_WA_Press@blm.gov 

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

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BLM, Wildland Fire Service Announce Fire Restrictions For Oregon, Washington - 05/13/26

PORTLAND, Ore. – On May 14, fire restrictions will go into effect for all Bureau of Land Management administered lands throughout Oregon and Washington. The BLM and U.S. Wildland Fire Service leaders encourage all visitors to be aware of active restrictions and closures as warmer, drier weather sets in around the Pacific Northwest.

These fire restrictions help reduce the risk of human-caused fires. Starting May 14, the use of fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns is prohibited.

"We are increasingly concerned that 2026 could rival the most extreme years on record for heat and dryness in the Pacific Northwest,” said Jeff Fedrizzi, U.S. Wildland Fire Service, Assistant Chief of Operations, for the Pacific Northwest.

“Every visitor must understand that even one small spark can lead to a costly and destructive fire in these high-impact conditions.”

People who violate the prohibition may be fined up to $100,000 and/or imprisoned for up to 12 months. In addition, those found responsible for starting wildland fires on federal lands can be billed for the cost of fire suppression.

For more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service manages wildfire prevention, response, and recovery across lands administered by the Interior Department. It conducts these operations in close coordination with Interior’s land management agencies. Together, we are fostering fire-resilient landscapes and safeguarding communities.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Bring Yaquina Head To Life: Artist-in-Residence Opportunity For Freedom 250 - 05/13/26

SALEM, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is seeking its next Artist-in-Residence at the breathtaking Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, and this year’s opportunity is something special. The selected artist will help capture and share the rugged beauty, cultural stories, and coastal magic of Oregon during a milestone year: the Nation’s 250th anniversary and the BLM’s 80th birthday.

“We welcome any applicants who want to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of Yaquina Head,” said Ricardo Escobar, Yaquina Head Manager. “Creativity and art provide an engaging opportunity to share the value of public lands and their connection to local communities and beyond.”

The residency runs Sept. 11– 27, 2026, offering artists an immersive opportunity to explore, create, and connect with the landscape. Applications are open through June 14. Selections will be based on portfolio strength, resume, a proposed community event, and the artist’s creative vision.

Perched on the Oregon coast in Newport, just 2.5 hours from Portland, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is a dramatic meeting of land and sea. Towering cliffs, vibrant tide pools, sweeping ocean views, and abundant wildlife make its 100 acres a living canvas for inspiration.

Full details and the application form are available on the Yaquina Head Artist-in-Residence webpage. For additional information, contact Sabrina Gorney at srgorney@blm.gov.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

BLM Prepares To Open Campgrounds For 2026 Recreation Season - 05/06/26

BLM prepares to open campgrounds for 2026 recreation season

Know Before You Go and check local fire restrictions to stay safe and informed

PORTLAND, Ore. – As spring temperatures rise, the Bureau of Land Management is excited to welcome visitors to public lands across Oregon and Washington for the 2026 recreation season. While many sites are moving to full-service operations, the BLM urges people to plan ahead, practice "Know Before You Go" safety and strictly adhere to upcoming seasonal fire restrictions.

“Each year we look forward to welcoming visitors back,” said Jim Regan-Vienop, Klamath Falls Acting Field Manager. “Public lands offer everyone a chance to unwind, explore, and appreciate the landscapes we all share.”

BLM recreation areas offer a broad selection of activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, off-highway vehicle recreation and boating across a wide variety of landscapes.

Most seasonal campgrounds across Oregon and Washington open by mid-May, though specific dates vary based on local conditions and elevation. The BLM encourages all visitors to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve these shared spaces for future generations.

Safe recreation begins with thorough planning; always share your itinerary with someone at home and be prepared to "Pack It In, Pack It Out" if facilities have limited trash service early in the season. For those drawn to the region's rivers, water safety is paramount, always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket and check local water conditions before launching.

Public safety depends on responsible fire practices. Before heading out, visitors are urged to verify if campfires are permitted at their specific destination, as high-danger periods often restrict fires to designated steel rings in improved campgrounds only or restrict open flames completely. The BLM reminds everyone to never leave a fire unattended and to use the "Drown, Stir, and Feel" method to ensure coals are cold to the touch before departing.

For the most up-to-date information on specific site availability and local fire danger levels, please visit the BLM Oregon/Washington webpage or contact your local District Office.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.