Land Use Update: OMRA Leads Successful Effort to Keep Christmas Valley Sand Dunes Open

Riders and outdoor enthusiasts can continue to enjoy one of Oregon’s most iconic off-highway vehicle destinations thanks to a successful coordinated effort led by the Oregon Motorcycle Riders Association (OMRA) with support from the Motorcycle Industry Council and grassroots advocates.

Earlier this year, the Bureau of Land Management considered a management plan that could have closed access to the Christmas Valley Sand Dunes — a sprawling inland dune system in south-central Oregon treasured by OHV riders for its open terrain and scenic riding opportunities. Under the original proposal, approximately 9,000 acres of prime dunes and an additional 61,000 acres of adjacent public lands faced significant restrictions or closure.

OMRA mobilized its members, partnered with the Motorcycle Industry Council and local recreation groups, and encouraged constituents to engage with the planning process. Through coordinated outreach and targeted comments submitted to the BLM, riders made their voices heard in defense of multiple-use recreation on public lands.

As a result of this collective action, the Christmas Valley Sand Dunes will remain open to OHV use — preserving thousands of acres of riding terrain for riders of all skill levels. The outcome represents a major win for the riding community and underscores the impact that organized advocacy and strong partnerships can have on public land policy.

The dunes, managed as part of the Bureau of Land Management’s Area of Critical Environmental Concern near Christmas Valley, are among the largest inland shifting sand systems in the Pacific Northwest and a unique recreation asset for motorized and non-motorized users alike.

OMRA applauds everyone who took action — whether submitting comments, sharing information, or speaking up at public meetings. The association remains committed to defending access to trails and riding areas and will continue working with partners to protect multi-use recreation and public lands for future generations.