Friends of the Oregon Caves & Chateau

06/15/2026

Read our newest, newsiest, Newsletter! :) And Please Share!
You can even signup at our website to stay "in the know" on a regular basis... Friendsocac.org 😎
https://conta.cc/4fHIKgB

06/07/2026

We tout dark skies as we have DarkSky International identified park... and this is also what you see when you look up! 🙄😲

A note on cumulus. They can mean that. But, over the ocean, they mean unstable air. Usually cold unstable. And, cumulus can also produce showers......and can build into cumulonimbus....aka thunderstorms.

06/07/2026

06/05/2026

Fun facts…

Make no bones about it, caves are excellent environments for the preservation of fossils! Their stable temperature and humidity can preserve fossils for thousands or even millions of years! Cave fossils include plants, invertebrates, vertebrates, or trace fossils that display an organism’s activity, rather than its remains. Fossils can become exposed over time from cave-forming processes or are found by exploring cave openings, sinkholes, and tubes. Animals may use caves for shelter or feeding, but those who don’t make it out become entombed and safeguarded until we discover them or the cave is ready to reveal its paleontological treasures!

Many fossils have been found in Oregon Caves, including at least 50,000-year-old grizzly bear bones and 38,000-year-old jaguar bones! The jaguar is one of the most complete specimens of its kind and the northernmost jaguar remains ever found. Paleontological research allows us to learn about species diversity and distribution in the park over time.

Both caves and fossils are fragile and irreplaceable resources that we want all visitors to enjoy; please make sure not to disturb or collect any fossils that you may find during your visit and contact a Park Ranger if you do find one.

Come visit and take a cave tour to learn more about the importance of caves and why it’s crucial we protect them. Happy Cave Week!

NPS photo of the jaguar jawbone found in Oregon Caves.

06/04/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18gDQ4mJtp/

05/27/2026

Too True! Flippy- Floppies lead to Sloppy-Slippies that are followed by Stubbie- Nubbies and Blackened-Biffies and Bruisies... 🤣

“You must choose, but choose wisely…” -Grail Knight

Nobody wants slippy-sloppy. Or was it sloppy-slippy? Either way, taking the wrong footwear on the trail can quickly turn a fun hike into a painful one. Before heading out, research the route and terrain so you can choose the right gear for your adventure. Heels, open-toed shoes, and flip-flops are not ideal for hiking trails. For dirt or gravel trails, opt for sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good traction and ankle support. For paved or urban pathways, comfortable sneakers or tennis shoes are usually a better fit. Your feet will thank you later.

Now, to be fair, it's ! Flip-flops are great for beach parks, the pool, short walks, getting lost in the parking lot, or just embracing vacation mode. But rocky trails, waterfalls, uneven terrain, being chased by a herd of bison, mud, and steep inclines? That’s where things can get a little…well, slippy. Also sloppy.

Make good choices.

Image: A screenshot of a post from the National Park Service account on X that reads: “Always hike with proper supplies and equipment. Remember, flippy floppies may lead to slippy sloppies.”

05/24/2026

Be 😁

As temperatures start to warm up and you plan your next adventure at Oregon Caves, we want to remind visitors about how to share the preserve safely with one of our resident species, the black bear! Spring and early summer bring increased bear activity as black bears search for food, move through habitat and, in some areas, protect cubs. When visiting Oregon Caves remember these important tips to keep you and our bears safe!

🐻 Most encounters can be prevented! Visitors can reduce their risk of a black bear encounter by hiking in groups, avoiding hiking at night, dawn, or dusk, making noise while hiking, staying alert, and storing food correctly.

🐻 Bear safety protects people and bears; food-conditioned or habituated bears are more likely to approach people, damage property or require management action. Improper food storage puts both visitors and bears at risk, so do not allow bears to get human food and ensure you are picking up and packing up.

🐻 If you happen to encounter a bear never approach it, a photo or selfie is not worth a negative bear encounter! If it doesn't notice you stay calm and quietly back away, picking up any small children. Report the encounter to park staff as soon as it is safe to do so.

🐻 If a black bear sees you stay calm, speak in a calm voice, slowly wave your arms and back away slowly. Do not run away as it could provoke them into chasing you.

🐻 If a black bear approaches you stand your ground and make loud noises by yelling and clapping your hands.

We want you to enjoy Oregon Caves safely, so always be Bear Aware!

Photo by: NPS/ I. Ekblom

05/20/2026

We’re thrilled to announce that our candlelight tours will begin this weekend! Get ready to experience the park in an enchanting new light as we guide you through its history and stories, all illuminated by the warm glow of candles. Experience the park in a unique, beautiful glow as we guide you through its history and stories by candlelight. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing evening or a memorable adventure, these tours offer a wonderful opportunity to explore and connect. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing this magical experience together!

You can reserve your spot on this tour at Recreation.gov or stop into one of our visitor centers. For safety reasons, children must be 10 years or older to participate in the candlelight tour.