What To Bring:
On behalf of Portland Audubon, welcome to our flock! We ask that you please bring these essentials to enjoy a safe and fun trip:
- Please bring a pack lunch
- a water bottle
- sturdy ankle-high work boots
- work gloves
- sunscreen, and weather appropriate clothing.
This time of year, conditions can be pretty cool, so be sure to check the weather before your trip!
The refuge sits (deceivingly) at ~4,000ft. in elevation; slightly noticeable for some, but not an issue for most. Benson Pond can be uneven in spots, but in general is quite flat. There may be some tasks that require willing participants to do some heavy lifting. However, there will be plenty of opportunities for pacing oneself during the day, and plenty of extra water to stay hydrated. Our number one priority is that everyone stays safe!
Lodging:
Lodging on Refuge will be provided, however you are responsible for arranging your own bedding, food, and transportation. We can facilitate participants organizing a carpool by sharing participant contact info if participants desire. Please note: It is a long drive to Malheur from the Willamette Valley, so take that into consideration before committing to this trip.
Housing on the refuge will be at P-Ranch. The house at P-Ranch has four bedrooms and can house 4-8 people. Double occupancy in rooms is reserved for couples. There is also space for camping at P-Ranch, with access to the kitchen, laundry, shower, and bathrooms. You will need to bring and prepare your own food for meals, though spontaneous potluck meals are welcome and encouraged.
Alternative Lodging:
If you are not interested in the lodging provided on the Refuge, the City of Hines and the City of Burns, 32 miles north of Refuge Headquarters, provide lodging accommodations.
Please contact: Harney County Chamber of Commerce at 541-573- 2636 or visit their website. For more rustic conditions, consider the Malheur Field Station or camp along the Blitzen River at Page Springs Campground, just three miles from the town of Frenchglen.
Make sure to make reservations at the Malheur field station in advance (Page Springs Campground does not take reservations, camping is at a first come first serve basis).
To get to Benson Pond (for those who are not staying on Refuge):
- From Burns: Head south on Hwy 205 approximately 47 miles to the turnoff for Krumbo Reservoir. Turn left and cross bridge, take immediate right onto the Center Patrol Road at the auto tour route site (do not go forward to Krumbo). In about one mile, Benson Pond will be on your left.
- From Frenchglen: Head north on Hwy 205 approximately 11 miles to the turnoff for Krumbo Reservoir. Turn right and cross bridge, take immediate right onto the Center Patrol Road at the auto tour route site (do not go forward to Krumbo). In about one mile, Benson Pond will be on your left.
Please complete the RSVP form and we will get in touch with more details.
Contact Teresa Wicks at twicks@audubonportland.org if you have questions.
Thanks for working with us to care for your public lands!
