The Redmond Caves in Oregon are a unique lava tube cave system in Central Oregon, where ancient volcanic lava flows from the Newberry Caldera have shaped a captivating underground world.
The Redmond Caves offer a special opportunity to explore some of the largest and most accessible caves in Central Oregon.
In fact, several of the Redmond Caves are large enough to walk around in, but not too large to get lost inside (as long as you have a light!).
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Redmond Caves including!
Pack your flashlight and sense of adventure as we descend into the Redmond Caves!
Redmond Caves Oregon Overview
The Redmond Caves are some of the best caves in Central Oregon. These are some highlights:
- A series of five lava tube caves.
- Open year-round to public exploration.
- Formed by hot and fast flowing lava 80,000 years ago.
- Part of the Horse Lava Tube System via the Newberry Volcano.
- Five of the over 700 caves in Central Oregon.
- Located within the Redmond city limits in Central Oregon.
- Easily accessible: right off a main road.
- Can be explored within 1 – 2 hours.
- No bathrooms.
Accessing the Redmond Caves
The Redmond Caves are easily accessible via a main road and can be explored within an hour or two. They are located within the Redmond city limits and are an easy stop off of Highway 97 if you’re heading north or south.
The parking lot is dirt but in decent shape. There is little to no shade. There are no bathrooms and exploring the caves is free. No reservation is required.
Redmond Caves Map
There are five caves all clustered within a few minutes’ walk, and there is a helpful map at the entrance.
Redmond Caves Oregon History
Originally formed 80,000 years ago, the caves probably went unexplored for thousands of years before being used by Native Americans. It is estimated that Native Americans used the caves for over 6,000 years based on artifacts found in the caves.
Euro-American settlers discovered the Redmond Caves as early as the 1870s and may have even been the first caves in Central Oregon that they found.
Later, the caves were possibly used for food storage until the 1960s where they were designated by the Office of Civil Defense as fallout shelters.
Since then, the caves have experienced vandalism, trash and corresponding cleanups by the Oregon High Desert Grotto and Bureau of Land Management. Today, the caves are managed by the City of Redmond and Bureau of Land Management.
The Cave Exploration Experience
Formed by the collapse of a single lava tube, these five individual caves possess a mystical allure that attracts curious explorers year-round, though the cold temperatures in the caves are most enjoyable on a hot day.
It can be an intimidating but exciting experience to be inside a big cave. That is, until you have explored a few.
In fact, there are lots of caves in Central Oregon (over 700 actually) and the Redmond Caves are one of the larger lava tubes in the region.
The pitch-black caves can be a foreign place, but also a memorable and unique adventure.
Don’t let that scare you; we recommend enjoying a few minutes in complete darkness (yes that means turning off your light!) for a memorable experience that is both spooky and calming.
Navigating the Redmond Caves
Each cave in Redmond offers a distinct experience, with intriguing rock formations and unique features.
Some areas may be more challenging to access than others, requiring flexibility and caution. That said, this is totally doable for everyone who can hike.
The Redmond Caves can be a spooky but exciting place.
We recommend exploring at your own pace, without a plan. This way, you can stumble upon the wonders of the Redmond Caves for yourself.
Don’t worry: the caves aren’t too large where you can get lost. You are always within a short walk to the cave entrance.
Redmond Caves Oregon: What to Pack
To fully enjoy the Redmond Caves and stay safe, pack the essentials: flashlights (and a backup), sturdy footwear, and layers (its cold in there).
Furthermore, a helmet is not a bad idea, but is not essential. Just watch your head. Some areas of the cave have a low ceiling.
As always, respect the environment and wildlife, leaving no trace behind. Remember that pets are not allowed within the caves, ensuring a serene experience for all visitors.
Best Time to Visit the Redmond Caves
As you plan your excursion, consider logistics, travel time, and weather conditions. Fortunately, the caves are open year-round, and a winter exploration can be amazing.
However, we think the best time is when the weather’s hot and the cool air of the caves is extra refreshing.
Redmond Caves Oregon FAQ
Are dogs allowed in Redmond Caves?
Dogs are not allowed in the caves themselves. This is to preserve the inside of the caves. Urine and feces do not degrade in the caves.
Are the caves open year-round?
Yes. The Redmond Caves are open year-round. Keep in mind large snowstorms can make traveling to the caves difficult. In addition, be sure to check out Trip Check when traveling in Oregon.
Are there restrooms at the Redmond Caves?
No. There are no restrooms.
Are fees or reservations required to visit the caves?
No. No fees or reservations are required.
Conclusion
We hope you found this article about The Redmond Caves helpful. This is just one of the many exciting places to explore in Central Oregon.
As always, it is critical that you leave no trace when you visit the Redmond Caves in order to preserve this unique place for future visitors.
If you are visiting Central Oregon, welcome! We hope you enjoy your time here. If you’re still in the planning stages, be sure to check out our other articles about Central Oregon.
While you’re in Remond, check out the best restaurants, breweries, and other things to do in Redmond!
