Peak Recreation Season Begins at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

Reedsport, Ore; May 20, 2025 - Forest Service staff and volunteers are excited to welcome visitors to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (ODNRA) for the busy summer season. The ODNRA offers a variety of multi-use recreation opportunities including hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, and Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) riding. 

“We appreciate everyone’s help to care for the land and provide a family-friendly place where people can visit for generations to come,” said Central Coast Deputy District Ranger Allen Hambrick. “All visitors to the ODNRA are asked to respect closures, out-of-bounds zones, and OHV sound limits. Excessive sound may disturb adjacent landowners, other recreationists, and sensitive wildlife.” 

The Oregon Dunes Management Plan (1994) establishes standards for OHV sound rules and sound monitoring. Sounds checks and sound education help OHV riders understand sound limits, why they’re important, and how to comply. Visitors are encouraged to contact the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Visitor Center for a complementary OHV sound check. The current ODNRA sound limit is 93 decibels, as measured from an OHV’s tailpipe while the vehicle is stationary. Violation of the sound limit may result in a citation.

This year, visitors will notice improvements to noise buffer markers and established out-of-bounds lines. OHV users are encouraged to carry maps, follow posted signage and avoid creating unauthorized trails. More information about OHV use at the ODNRA, including downloadable maps, can be found here.