Historic

Siskiyou Smokejumper Base

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A shaded picnic site and restroom are some of the pleasant surprises you will find at one of the first smokejumper bases to be established in Oregon and one of the first to be established in the nation. The base is located on Highway 199 between Cave Junction and O'Brien.

The Siskiyou Smokejumper Base was was the first smokejumper bases in Oregon history and one of the first smokejumper bases in American history. It is one of the original four bases that were established when smokejumping first began and is the only one remaining that is in its original location and condition. It now contains one of the most complete assemblages of historic smokejumper buildings in the nation including the oldest smokejumper parachute loft. more history....

Walking tour

The Siskiyou Smokejumper Base is located at the Illinois Valley airport about four and a half miles south of Cave Junction, Oregon. If you would like to see the site, you can use the map below to take a short walk around the base, which established as a tent camp in 1943 with the building you see today constructed by smokejumper crews in the late 1940's and early 1950's. Please be respectful. Do not enter buildings unless invited to do so. Park in designated parking areas. Do not take your car out on the runway or tarmac. If you use the picnic area or restrooms, please cleanup after yourself.

Map of Cave Junction historic smoke jumper base

View to the north

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Disclaimer: All information in Highway199.org is accurate to the best knowledge of the author. However, conditions in outdoor settings can change dramatically after storms or fires. For this reason, travelers are advised to check current road conditions before traveling through the area, drive responsibly and take measures to understand safety issues in the region. When participating in outdoor activities, always plan and prepare for safe hiking, swimming or any other activities mentioned in the Highway 199 website. More on disclaimer and copyright...