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A multitude of winter recreation fun in southwest Oregon awaits YOU! The BLM’s Medford District offers an array of snow-filled activities for all ages. Pack up the rig and explore two of our fav’ winter recreation spots: the Buck Prairie Cross Country Ski Trail area, and the Table Mountain Winter Play Area.

Located at the summit of the Dead Indian Memorial Highway approximately 13 miles east of Ashland is the Buck Prairie Cross Country Ski Trail parking area. The trail system consists of approximately 17 miles of interconnected trails on public and private lands on the ridges just west of Howard Prairie and Hyatt Reservoirs. The trail system provides views of the Rogue Valley and Siskiyou Mountains to the west, and the Cascade Mountains and Dead Indian Plateau to the east. All trails share the same route for the first 1.25 miles from the parking area. Trails are marked with the traditional blue diamonds and signs show trail names, length, and difficulty levels. All trails return to the parking area by the same route. One additional loop trail which does not originate from the Dead Indian parking area is located just south of Camper's Cove Resort on Hyatt Prairie Road on the west shore of Hyatt Lake. The trail is a 2.5 mile loop and is rated most difficult due to steep terrain. Dogs are not allowed on the Buck Prairie Trail system but dog owners can use Buck Prairie II, a dog friendly area located approximately 3 miles northeast of Buck Prairie on Dead Indian Memorial Highway. Snow Park Permits are required at the Dead Indian Summit parking area, but not at Camper's Cove.

The Table Mountain Winter Play Area is specifically designed for snow tubing. The parking area also allows access to snowmobile and cross-country skiing trails. Adjacent to the snow hill there is a restroom and an area you can build a warming fire. (Bring your own wood). For safety reasons no metal runner sleds, skis, or snowboards are allowed. The Bureau of Land Management designed this Winter Play Area for your enjoyment and to be as safe as possible. Unfortunately there are some dangers in snow tubing. Stay in control, and know your limits. Plowing of Table Mountain Road is done periodically in response to snowfall, four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Snow Parking Permits are not required at Table Mountain Winter Play Area.