Fort Rock State Natural Area

Like a desert mirage, this National Natural Landmark rises huge out of the barren, immense flatness of Oregon's high desert. An enormous near-circle of towering jagged rock walls make it seem like a fort. Hike around and you'll soon realize it's even bigger than it looks! It's an old tuff ring set in what was a shallow sea in prehistoric times. As you walk around inside, imagine the early American Indians who canoed to and from what was then an island. Sandals found in a nearby cave are the oldest ever discovered, dating back around 9,350-10,500 years.

Tours of Fort Rock Cave are available by guided tour only.

Stargazing

Are you coming in for the evening? Please print, complete and place the Stargazing Permit on your vehicle dash when you're viewing the stars after hours in the designated day-use area.