Visit the Forest

FOREST CLOSURE due to wildfire: August 2023--The USFS has closed access to HJA from visitors and researchers starting August 10, 2023. Due to the uncertainty of the fire, HJA will not be hosting students, researchers, visitors, events, or activities into this fall. Check the Forest Service Fire Management page for official closures on the area, and InciWeb and our Lookout Fire page for information on the fire.

Access

Winter Conditions: Be aware that much of the Andrews Forest is under snow and inaccessible during the winter months. Before you travel, check out the webcams and current weather conditions. If you visit, stop at the large display board at the junction of Forest Roads 15 and 1506. The display has a map of the Andrews Forest and provides a short history of the site.

Hiking

CLOSED DUE TO WILDFIRE. The Lookout Creek Old-Growth Trail, is a 3.5 mile hike through classic old-growth forest along Lookout Creek.  The Lookout Creek Old Growth brochure provides natural history information about the forest seen from the trail.

CLOSED DUE TO WILDFIRE. The Carpenter Mountain Lookout Trail is a one-mile climb to the lookout for grand views. 

Camping

Camping is available at the nearby Mona Campground.

Headquarters Facilities

The Andrews Forest's Headquarters facilities, which include apartments, offices, conference hall, and a classroom, are available for year-round use, with a capacity of up to about 80 people. The facilities are available for a variety of group functions: short courses, workshops, overnight field trips, planning sessions, retreats, etc. While priority is given to publicly-affiliated organizations, use by private organizations is also welcome.  Priority during summer field season is given to research projects and education groups. The winter season is quieter: use for meetings and workshops is welcomed and encouraged. Find out more about our Facilities.

Virtual Visit

If you can’t travel to the forest, check out the virtual tour of the old-growth trail to learn about the ecosystem and some of the essential characteristics of an old growth forest.     

Fishing and Collecting is Prohibited

Fishing and collection of forest products, such as flowers, moss, mushrooms, bear grass, or fir boughs, are prohibited on the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest. Many of these organisms are being studied by researchers and their removal can have serious, negative impacts. However, fishing is permitted in nearby Blue River, Blue River Reservoir, and the McKenzie River. Please check the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife web page for license and regulations for sport fishing and hunting.

More Information

Willamette National Forest has more information about this area. Visitor centers are open to public in Eugene and at the nearby McKenzie River Ranger Station.

If you would like more information or to arrange a tour of the Andrews Forest, please contact the Andrews Forest Director.