Rujada Day Use Picnic Area

Summary

Rujada Day Use Picnic Area is a scenic spot along Layng Creek, where visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, and horseshoe pits. In autumn, the vibrant fall colors of the hardwood trees along the creek are a sight to behold. The site has two reservable picnic sites with tables and grills, as well as flush toilets and drinking water. Nearby, there are three waterfall trails hikers can explore.

Overview

Rujada Day Use Picnic Area is set along the banks of Layng Creek, with a large, open grassy area amidst a scattering of Douglas fir. Rujada is a perfect setting for family reunions, parties or group getaways.

Recreation

In addition to being a prime location for hiking and biking in summer and early fall. The large grassy field is perfect for group activities or sports, and a playground and horseshoe pit are also provided on-site.

Hikers will enjoy a moderately challenging hike on Swordfern Trail, leaving from the historic Civilian Conservation Corps Campground Register booth, located in the Rujada Picnic Area. The trail parallels the south side of Layng Creek, traveling through a stand of second growth Douglas fir and lush swordfern understory, then climbs to an abandoned logging road. Eventually it loops back to the Rujada Picnic area, or continues on the logging road and back into the camping loop.

In autumn, visitors will be treated to the brilliant fall colors of the hardwood trees along Layng Creek.

Facilities

This day use area has two reservable picnic sites. Each site can accommodate up to 30 people, and groups of up to 60 may reserve both sites. The sites are equipped with picnic tables and grills. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

Visitors to Umpqua National Forest are often taken aback by the unique landscapes of southwestern Oregon. Explosive geologic events have shaped the distinctive landscape on the nearly 1 million-acre forest, and provide spectacular scenery as well as an abundance of natural and cultural resources. The translation of the word, "Umpqua," meaning "thundering waters," defines the area. High mountain lakes, heart-stopping rapids, peaceful ponds and thundering waterfalls, including the 272-foot Watson Falls on the North Umpqua Highway, provide plenty of pastimes for visitors. Diverse ecosystems support a wide range of habitat for wildlife common to the area. From eagles and owls, to salamanders and salmon, these species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams and diverse forests to live.

Nearby Attractions

Nearby are three spectacular waterfall trails. Spirit Falls is a short 0.4-mile, more difficult hike to a 60’ waterfall. Moon Falls is an easy, 0.5-mile hike to a 125’ cascading waterfall. Pinard Falls is a 0.6-mile, more difficult hike to a 105’ waterfall. All three hikes are within 10 miles of the campground and can be done within a single day. Visitors enjoy taking a picnic lunch and eating at the base of Moon Falls at a picnic table made and installed by a modern day Conservation Corps crew.