Restoration Tour, Camp Polk Meadow Preserve

Join the Land Trust on an outing to explore the nature of Central Oregon! Photo: Rick Dingus.
Join the Land Trust on an outing to explore the nature of Central Oregon! Photo: Rick Dingus.

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and David Miller for an update on the Whychus Creek restoration at Camp Polk Meadow Preserve. Ten years after the restoration, Whychus Creek is making itself at home and the once dry meadow is a changed place. Walk the restored meadow and see the robust streamside vegetation that has taken root, the paths the creek has chosen to follow, how beaver activity is changing the creek, and how the restoration project has improved habitat for fish and wildlife. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

Face masks: Per Oregon Health Authority (OHA) guidelines, face masks are no longer required indoors or outside. Individuals who wish to wear a face mask may do so.

  • Outing Details + Route

    Hike Rating: This is a moderate 2 mile hike off-trail and through grassy meadows.

    Route: This hike will start near the restoration area at Camp Polk Meadow Preserve. We will venture off-trail into the meadow, including stepping over downed trees. Terrain will be uneven.

    Elevation gain/loss: This hike is moderate with little elevation gain/loss.

  • What to Bring

    Snacks/lunch, water, closed toe shoes. Dress for the weather.

  • About the Property

    Camp Polk Meadow Preserve is a 152 acre Preserve on Whychus Creek near Sisters, Oregon. The Preserve was first established by the Deschutes Land Trust in 2000. The Preserve contains approximately 1.4 miles of Whychus Creek, wetlands, meadows, aspen groves and ponderosa pine stands. It is home to a variety of plant and wildlife species and is one of Central Oregon's birding hot spots. The Preserve also has a long and illustrious history as a crossroads for Native Americans, explorers, soldiers and settlers.

  • Accessibility

    The Land Trust is working to make our Walks + Hikes as accessible as possible. Please let us know at least one week in advance if there is something we can do or provide to support you in participating in this outing to the fullest and we will accommodate as possible.