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Howard Buford Recreation Area wilderness guide
Recreation Area · OR

Howard Buford Recreation Area

Howard Buford Recreation Area is renowned for its diverse landscapes and offers a multitude of outdoor activities, making it a prime destination for nature lovers.

Recreation Area2,3634+ Trails

Designation

Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,363

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Howard Buford Recreation Area

Howard Buford Recreation Area is renowned for its diverse landscapes and offers a multitude of outdoor activities, making it a prime destination for nature lovers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Howard Buford Recreation Area, located in Lane County, Oregon, forms part of Mount Pisgah. This area is a focal point for ecological diversity, offering habitats ranging from riparian forests and savannas to upland prairies and old-growth oak woodlands. Historically, the area has been a popular local spot for outdoor enthusiasts since its establishment, providing ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and learning about regional flora and fauna. The Howard Buford Recreation Area encompasses a wide array of trails, with several leading to Mount Pisgah, offering panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains and the Willamette Valley. The area's natural beauty and easy access make it a choice spot for both leisurely hikes and more challenging treks. Wildlife such as black-tailed deer and various bird species frequent the area, enhancing its appeal to visitors interested in biological diversity.

Field Guide · Recreation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Howard Buford Recreation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Howard Buford Park★ 7.8⌖ 1 miHiking
Howard Buford Park

Discover the Natural Beauty of Howard Buford Park

Explore the scenic trails at Howard Buford Park near Eugene, OR. This moderate route traverses diverse ecosystems with rewarding views of the Willamette Valley. Ideal for hiking, bird watching, and educational visits in spring and fall.

Nature's Retreat at Mount Pisgah Arboretum★ 7.5⌖ 1 miHiking
Mount Pisgah Arboretum

Nature's Retreat at Mount Pisgah Arboretum

Explore Mount Pisgah Arboretum near Eugene, OR, stretching across 209 acres. Enjoy trails meandering through oak savannas and meadows. Ideal for nature walks and family-friendly festivals. Best in spring and fall, this location offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

Views and Trails: Spring Boulevard Trailhead, Eugene★ 6.2⌖ 4 miHiking
Spring Boulevard Trailhead

Views and Trails: Spring Boulevard Trailhead, Eugene

Explore the tranquil Spring Boulevard Trailhead, Eugene. This serene spot offers access to lush trails with panoramic mountain views, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching. A local favorite for its accessibility and peaceful setting.

Running Through History: Pre's Trail in Eugene★ 8.5⌖ 4 miTrail Running
Pre's Trail

Running Through History: Pre's Trail in Eugene

Explore Pre's Trail, a 4-mile loop in Eugene, OR, offering an easy trail running route along the Willamette River. Ideal for beginners and perfect for bird watching and picnicking. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.

Trail RunningView Details→
Enchanting Escape: Hendricks Park, Eugene★ 7.5⌖ 4 miHiking
Hendricks Park

Enchanting Escape: Hendricks Park, Eugene

Explore the lush trails of Hendricks Park in Eugene, Oregon. Spanning 78 acres, discover vibrant rhododendrons and towering firs on moderate paths. Ideal for photography and picnicking, it's a peaceful retreat in spring.

Nature's Escape: Mount Baldy, Eugene★ 8.5⌖ 4 miHiking
Mount Baldy

Nature's Escape: Mount Baldy, Eugene

Explore the scenic trails of Mount Baldy, Eugene. This easy hike is great for wildlife watching and photography with views of the Cascade Mountains. Perfect for beginners and a peaceful escape close to the city.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mount Pisgah Summit Trail offering stunning valley views✦ Rich oak savanna and prairie ecosystems✦ Wildlife viewing, particularly bird watching along the river✦ Educational programs at the Mount Pisgah Arboretum
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Howard Buford Recreation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Howard Buford Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Howard Buford Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Howard Buford Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Education Programs

Available in Howard Buford Recreation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Howard Buford Recreation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee, parking fee may apply

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Howard Buford Recreation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Springfield
⌖ 3.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Springfield, Oregon

A friendly gateway town near the southern Willamette Valley offering easy access to forest trails, waterways, and year-round outdoor recreation with a relaxed, community-driven spirit.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Jasper
⌖ 3.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jasper, Oregon

A tranquil small town nestled in the Cascade foothills offering a peaceful base for forest exploration and outdoor recreation.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Creswell
⌖ 7.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Creswell, Oregon

A quiet Willamette Valley town offering access to diverse outdoor trails, river paddling, and nearby forest adventures with a relaxed small-town atmosphere.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Coburg
⌖ 9.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Coburg, Oregon

A quaint small town with a charming rural vibe, serving as a peaceful gateway to outdoor adventures in the Willamette Valley.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Dexter
⌖ 10.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dexter, Oregon

A quiet riverside town with easy access to water adventures and forest trails, perfect for paddlers, anglers, and hikers seeking a peaceful outdoor escape.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Lowell
⌖ 11.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lowell, Oregon

A peaceful lakeside town offering water-based adventures and access to quiet forest trails in the foothills of the Oregon Coast Range.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Howard Buford Recreation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

2 Day Cal-Salmon River Rafting Expedition | Rafting in McKenzie Bridge, OregonMcKenzie Bridge, Oregon · 38.65 mi away
On the Water· High Country Expeditions

2 Day Cal-Salmon River Rafting Expedition | Rafting in McKenzie Bridge, Oregon

Discover the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Cal-Salmon River with this 2-day guided adventure. Perfect for outdoor lovers, it combines exciting rapids with serene river landscapes, all led by expert guides from High Country Expeditions. Get ready for an unforgettable Oregon outdoor experience!

2 days (approx. 8–10 hours total)

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.