Redmond Caves Recreation Area
The Redmond Caves Recreation Area is the perfect place to go in Central Oregon for anyone who needs some time outdoors. Home of five lava caves created by Newberry Caldera’s volcanic molten flows, this region has something everyone will love. The Redmond Caves offer a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the region’s rich history. Situated just outside of downtown, these ancient caves were used by Native Americans six thousand years ago and provide an informative look into our past. The recreation area is open year-round, so you can enjoy this natural wonder anytime that suits your schedule.
In Redmond, Oregon, there are six lava tubes created when molten rock from Mount Hood cooled and solidified over time. The caves have been known locally for many years, but only recently did they come under joint management by city authorities and federal BLM representatives who oversee public lands. Five out of our six major cave systems can be found within this park – all with different characteristics depending on where you go inside them.
The Horse Lava Tube System is a part of Oregon’s geographic features that have been around 80,000 years old. The northernmost extent to these caves is called “The Redmond Caves,” located in Washington County near Portland. These lava tubes were created by an ancient flow that continued into another canyon before settling close enough for residents who enjoy hiking or camping there today.
The caves have been the center of cleanups over time. After repeated vandalism and defacement, projects were created to help maintain them. In 1997, The Oregon High Desert Grotto participated in a survey-and mapping for all five interconnected systems located on this site. The BLM has been working to keep the Redmond Caves clean since they first held an event there in 2002. They removed 300 tires and one car from this park site, but not before organizing another cleanup on National Public Lands Day.
It can be scorching outside, and you might not want to take a long walk, but inside the caves, it’s cool enough for your taste. You will learn about geology, wildlife and past human use of this land through stories told by staff members who work at The Caves Museum. The Redmond Caves is open year-round. These caves are maintained in their natural state; therefore, inherent risks exist, which require precautions: watch for rattlesnakes and take three light sources when exploring this attraction. Wear sturdy shoes to avoid ankle injuries while hiking through the rugged terrain with your flashlight as one source shines on each side, so you never get lost.
Petersen Rock Garden and Museum
Deschutes Roofing of Redmond
