What We Are All About
Pilots Taking Action
Recognized by the IRS as a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the RAF is using tax-deductible donations to:
- Identify private and public land for the development of new airstrips
- Assist in funding the building of new airstrips on public land
- Develop educational materials to assist pilots in being knowledgeable advocates
- Fund efforts to gain national recognition of backcountry recreational aviation and airstrips as a legitimate use of public lands
- Provide educational information regarding recreational airstrips to members of Congress and their staff
The RAF strives to build strong working relationships with other aviation groups, both on the state and national level. Many of the issues that involve the RAF transcend state boundaries. The RAF encourages various state pilots' organizations to form active committees that work on recreational airstrip issues. To facilitate this, the RAF is forming a cadre of State Liaisons to assist the states in becoming effective leaders in the efforts to protect recreational airstrips.
The RAF facilitates the enactment of state recreational-use statutes amendments to specifically include aviation. These laws considerably reduce a private airstrip landowner's liability when allowing public, non-commercial use of the airstrip.
In order to provide a connection between the backcountry and surrounding communities, the RAF is attracting donors who wish to specifically target their charitable donations locally. These funds have recently been directed toward a campaign to construct pilot shelters at larger, paved airports that serve as gateways to the backcountry. Similar in concept to the rest stops along our interstate highway system, the first of these shelters was constructed at Gallatin Field (BZN) in Bozeman, Montana. It offers pilots a place to pitch a tent on the grass near their airplane, relax in front of a fire and even take a hot shower - all at no charge.
The center piece of RAF airstrip acquisitions is Ryan Field. This donation by Ben and Butche Ryan includes 152 acres of land surrounded by US Forest Service lands and only two miles from Glacier National Park. There is a 2,500-foot airstrip and the RAF recently completed a pilot's campground.
The RAF is depending on other pilots to help them in identifying potential real estate for the development of new airstrips. Oftentimes we have friends or acquaintances who built their own airstrip and want to see their dream continue long after they are gone. These situations lend themselves perfectly to the tax-deductions that are available to the donor.
Future
Without the enabling work of the RAF, your recreational opportunities - whether cross-country or backcountry - will continue to diminish as airfields are closed or their use is restricted. Earning your pilot certificate wasn't easy. Creating new airstrips isn't easy either. Nothing worthwhile ever is.
The foundation invites donations of any kind, including land suitable for airstrip development. Cash donations are always welcome and fully tax-deductible. The RAF offers tax and legal assistance for donors, and the Board members receive no compensation. They love flying as much as the rest of us and they're here for us, the pilots… not profits.
RAF Beginning
"If not now, when; and if not us, who?" Those two questions were the basis for this organization we call the Recreational Aviation Foundation, the RAF. These guiding words are as appropriate today as they were a number of years ago when a small group of pilots asked them on that starlit night, sitting around a campfire at a backcountry airstrip.
This group had experienced the rare opportunity to enjoy flying into places needing no developed aviation facilities. No FBO, no nearby motel, not even the old Buick courtesy car. What they were seeking was the smell of tall pines, cowboy coffee, wood smoke, the distant song of a coyote, and the flicker of firelight. They knew these places were great places to bring kids and grandkids, and that someone needed to step up to protect them for the future.
Thus, this group of a half dozen started on a journey that they knew very little about, but they were committed, hard working, and they had no room for the words, “It can’t be done.”
All this is the heart of why the RAF came to be – organized by this group of Montana pilots who realized recreational airstrips were under threat of closure. They'd had a little success with airstrip issues already, and understood the need for a unified effort by pilots everywhere to protect public access to aviation-related recreational opportunities. These people were also aware of the few tools and limited knowledge available to help preserve airstrips on private land.
They got busy, and the RAF was formed and incorporated in Montana, receiving its federal and state non-profit determination in December 2003. They consulted landowners and public land managers, and compiled references upon which sound stewardship decisions could be based.
Since then, the RAF has grown to over 11,000 supporters from all fifty states plus over thirteen foreign countries. The RAF has earned standing in the aviation community, and is thought of as the "go-to" group on preserving, improving, and creating airstrips for recreational access on public and private lands.
Mission Statement
“The Recreational Aviation Foundation preserves, improves, and creates airstrips for recreational access.”
The RAF implements its mission through these Guiding Principles:
- We believe that aviation is a valid form of accessing recreational resources on public and private lands.
- We believe in collaboration with both public and private entities to arrive at solutions that provide benefit to all parties.
- We value the relationships of all stakeholders – both public and private – and commit to fostering relationships based upon integrity and transparency.
- We believe that creation of new recreational airstrips will encourage the general aviation community to get out and recreate as well as provide more dispersed recreational opportunities.
- We prioritize safety - from pre-flight planning to the experiences on the ground where our planes have taken us - and consider it a lifetime commitment, rather than an isolated event.
RAF Projects by State
Alaska
Grand Gulch
Jake’s Bar (AK0) was developed in support of mining operations in the mineral-rich Wrangell mountains south of the famous Kennicott copper mine which produced millions of dollars of copper from 1910 through 1938. RAF conducted a work party at Jake's Bar.
Arizona
RAF partners with the Arizona Pilots Association on Arizona airfield projects.
Red Creek Airstrip
Red Creek airstrip is located on the Verde River 28 miles north of Scottsdale and provides an incredible experience in the Sonoran Desert beauty. The Verde River is a designated Scenic
River and Eagle Nesting Zone. As with any backcountry airstrip, a would be visitor here must be realistic in his or her evaluation of their proficiency and aircraft performance, and of course use at your own risk; the airstrip undergoes ongoing maintenance. Download the safety briefing at http://azpilots.org/more-resources/backcountry-airstrips
Grand Gulch
The airstrip at Grand Gulch, AZ is near the north rim of the Grand Canyon. Located on BLM land Northeast of Lake Mead and Southwest of St. George are the historic ruins of Grand Gulch Mine, Arizona's Richest Copper Mine in 1911. Grand Gulch was the scene of a work party on Mar. 16, 2013 headed up by Recreational Aviation Foundation Utah Liaison Wayne Loeber, which led to the reopening of the airstrip in 2014. Thanks to the efforts of RAF to commit to a maintenance agreement with the BLM and National Park Service, access to this historic airstrip has been assured for years to come.
Grapevine Airstrip
Grapevine airstrip is located on the Tonto Basin District of the Tonto National Forest, 43 miles east of Scottsdale and is just 1400’ from the south shore of Roosevelt Lake, the largest body of water in central AZ. First constructed in the 1950’s and asphalted in the 1980’s by the Bureau of Reclamation, Grapevine was ultimately closed in 1997 by the FS. In 2012, following our success at Pleasant Valley and with a positive recommendation by that District Ranger, the RAF and APA negotiated a volunteer work weekend with District Ranger Kelly Jardine in order to clear years of tree and shrub growth along the runway edges. With 80+ volunteers and three days, the airstrip was made usable again. In 2017, cracks in the runway were sealed and shades and a grill were added to the airfield. It was surface sealed in 2018.
Pleasant Valley
Pleasant Valley, (24AZ) is located on the Young District of the Tonto National Forest just outside the historic little town of Young Arizona and 21 miles east and south of Payson. Made famous by the Pleasant Valley war of the late 20th and early 21st century, the airstrip is nestled in ranch country, at 4,800’. This airstrip was the first on FS lands reopened to public use following the RAF and APA’s efforts in 2011 to amend AZ’s RUS to include aviation. The strip was reopened in 2013, graded in 2014, had shades installed in 2017, and had grills installed in 2018.
Double Circle Ranch Z66
The Double Circle Ranch (Z66) is located on the Clifton District of the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest roughly 29 miles northeast of Safford, Arizona. The ranch, homesteaded in 1878, was one of the largest ranches of the southwest. In the 1950’s the then ranch owners built a log cabin lodge, bunk house, and airstrip in an attempt to convert the working ranch into a Dude ranch. The last of the private holdings were ultimately traded in a land swap with the USFS in 1989. In response to a request for help in preserving the old site from the grazing permittees Doug Dressler and Wilma Jenkins, negotiations between the RAF, APA and the USFS District Ranger Carol Telles and her recreation team began. Roughly one year later in 2014, the airstrip was cleaned up and pilots arrived for the first time in roughly 20 years in an effort to help preserve the site, its structures and history. Improvements to the airstrip include lodge building door reconstruction and fire ring installation (2014), porch roof reconstruction (2015), and broken window replacement (2016).
Arkansas
Trigger Gap
The RAF raised funds for this new 3,000 ft. grass airstrip in the beautiful Ozark Mountains through private donations.
California
Chicken Strip
The Chicken Strip is a 1,300-foot dirt strip in a remote corner of Death Valley National Park. The drive there is an arduous trek over rough dirt roads that take 3 or more hours to traverse, so visitation is limited. Natural hot springs are a short walk away. It is maintained by the RAF under an MOU with the National Park Service.
Cinder Cone Dry Lake Bed
Cinder Cone Dry Lake Bed is a public use airstrip located roughly 11 miles north of the census-designated place (CDP) Inyokern in California. With permission from the BLM Ridgecrest Field Office, RAF volunteer California State Liaison Rick Lach performs various maintenance duties at Cinder Cone. With the help of volunteers, Rick drags the strip when it gets eroded by vehicle use, and monitors the condition of the airstrip’s windsock, changing it out when needed.
Kern Valley Airport
The RAF was instrumental in campground improvements at Kern Valley Airport (L05). Through a grant from the RAF and donors, the old black barrel solar shower was replaced with a new three-stall shower house with sinks, mirrors, and charging ports.
Goler Heights Airstrip
West of California’s Hwy 395 and south of China Lake this ”hidden" airstrip lies on a small dry lakebed in a bowl that obscures it from the surrounding area. Through coordination with local BLM field managers, RAF California Liaison Rick Lach obtained authorization for RAF volunteers to maintain several airstrips in their district including Goler Heights. On several occasions, RAF members have brought hand tools and a drag to smooth the strip and fill in damage from OHV users driving on it during wet conditions.
Johannesburg Airport
In 2013, RAF California Liaison Rick Lach initiated conversation with the BLM about reopening Johannesburg Airport in California, a two-runway dirt airport which appeared on charts until the 1970s. The airstrip served the nearby communities of Randsburg and Johannesburg, which are both functioning gold and quartz mining settlements that date back to the 1800s. Gold miners who had previously worked in South Africa named the outpost. Thanks to the cooperation of the BLM, on September 15, 2018, the RAF organized a group of volunteers to re-open Johannesburg Airport, after twenty years of abandonment by all but OHV enthusiasts
Colorado
Astronaut Kent Rominger Airport
Astronaut Kent Rominger Airport (KRCV) in Del Norte, CO, offers great access to some very unique backcountry flying experiences in Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. The airport at Del Norte also offers amazing close-in accessible recreational opportunities, including rocking climbing and biking in Penitente Canyon Recreation Area, biking and hiking at the nearby BLM Stone Quarry Trail System, and biking and hiking in the BLM Pronghorn Trail System. Thanks to a $30,000 grant from the RAF, a new pilot shelter was completed at KRCV. Additional funding for the project included cash donations, and over $18,000 in donated labor, supplies, heavy equipment use and operation from various contractors involved. Rio Grande County supplied the balance of funding from its Airport Fund. The pilot shelter consists of a meeting/classroom area, kitchen, bathroom with shower, and covered porch area.
La Garita Creek Ranch
La Garita Creek Ranch Airport places you at the Ranch with rental cabins, and a main lodge with kitchen. Set up camp and fish in La Garita Creek; BLM access from the Ranch allows for hiking, biking and rock climbing. Paleo American artifacts and artwork are located on the Ranch which is 4 miles southwest of La Garita, CO. The RAF donated $1,000 to help fund a conservation easement on the ranch in 2016. In 2017 the RAF granted $750 for airstrip maintenance. Note: La Garita is not currently open to operations until further notice.
Florida
Blackwater Airstrip
Background: Blackwater River State Forest is one of the largest state forests in Florida and is named for the Blackwater River, which begins to the north in Alabama and meanders approximately 30 miles southwestward through the forest into Blackwater Bay near Milton, Florida. Blackwater Airfield (8FD3) is a Florida Forest Service airfield to which the FFS is willing to permit public access on a ‘request’ basis, should its condition be judged safe and not otherwise in use. The Blackwater staff and the RAF have developed a cooperative relationship to make this access possible and to further improve the airstrip.
Lakeland, FL
Just as Sun ’n Fun Campus is available year ‘round for visits and aviation camping, so is the RAF’s Fire Hub available to any group who would like to enjoy gathering there. Located near the Sun ’n Fun Corn Roast - in the woods, lakeside and under live oaks draped with Spanish Moss - it is meant to both symbolize and also to serve in its own right as a gathering point for flyers arriving by plane. (To reserve the space for an event, contact the Sun ’n Fun Office).
Arcadia Municipal Airport
The small cow town of Arcadia, Florida had long neglected its airport. That began to change in 2012 when a group of volunteers formed “Friends of Arcadia Airport” or FOAA. They thought a new campground might attract fly-in visitors, but they weren’t sure where to begin since the City opposed the idea. FOAA turned to the RAF. Two RAF members flew in to visit with FOAA’s Board and a plan was hatched. The RAF would organize a fly-in hosted by FOAA during Arcadia’s annual Rodeo Weekend. After the event, all the pilots would flood the local newspaper and City Council members with letters describing how much they enjoyed Arcadia and its shops and restaurants.
The newspaper editor printed every letter along with an article about the fly-in. The City Council noticed, and FOAA’s journey began. Over the next five years, FOAA raised funds and added much sweat equity to build a small pavilion, two campgrounds, and a beautiful fire hub area. Their most ambitious — and expensive — goal was to add a shower block. After a major fundraising effort, including a $5,000 RAF grant, the project was completed and dedicated.
Georgia
Creighton Island
RAF leaders and members have established a collaborative agreement with the Islands airstrip owner to provide airstrip maintenance and upkeep in exchange for the provisional use of the airstrip and access to the island and recreational amenities.
Idaho
Big Bar
The RAF works in conjunction with the Idaho Aviation Association to maintain this airstrip for public use.
Reed Ranch
When the Brundage Mountain land exchange in Idaho held their first public meeting, Jerry Cain, Director Emeritus for the RAF, flew down to McCall and submitted several pages of comments in support of opening Reed Ranch Airport to the public. The RAF partnered with the Idaho Aviation Association and followed up on the effort until it was finally opened. Although the RAF’s part was small, we were there at the beginning to lend our support to the effort.
Indiana
Lee Bottom
Lee Bottom, (64I) lies along the Ohio River six air miles south of the town of Hanover, IN and 26 nm NE of Bowman Field in Louisville, KY. The RAF sponsored a campout and “Sinful Sundae” social as part of the 2017 RAF Trail, and donated profits to Lee Bottom Aviation Refuge, the nonprofit that helps maintain the airfield.
Maine
Fort Kent, Maine
The RAF was proud to assist the Fish River Flying Club to re-open Fort Kent airstrip in Maine.
Massachusetts
Myricks
Myricks Airfield is a small turf airport in southeastern Massachusetts. Myricks is home to EAA Chapter 196’s annual fall fly-in fundraiser, a great event for pilots to enjoy some aviation camaraderie and quality hamburgers.
The RAF is proud to support the hard work of Jean Harley and the Myricks Airfield Foundation in memory of founder Murray Randall.
Michigan
Two Hearted River Airstrip
Two Hearted River airstrip (6Y5) is a public use airstrip in Newberry, Michigan.
Two Hearted is a new recreational destination near where Ernest Hemingway’s “Big Two Hearted River” joins Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The Two Hearted River is considered a premier US trout stream, and there is a state campground near the airstrip.
Years ago, RAF Michigan Liaison Brad Frederick learned about an abandoned Civilian Conservation Corps airstrip in the Lake Superior State Forest from Michigan Dept. of Aeronautics. Brad and his wife made the six-hour drive from their home in central Michigan, and found what he calls “typical beautiful UP jack pine forest with some maple trees mixed in,” and he was convinced there was good reason to create a safe airstrip to more easily access this recreational gem where inland lakes teem with walleye and perch. The RAF approved a grant for half the project; challenging folks from across the country to donate the other half. The fundraiser was named “Have a Heart” and launched on Valentine’s Day, 2017. “In about thirty days we had the funds we needed,” Brad said.
North Fox Island
6Y3 The RAF completed a formal agreement with the State of Michigan to open North Fox Island, located on an 820-acre island in Lake Michigan.
Minnesota
Bowstring Airfield
Bowstring airfield (9Y0) is a public use airport in the heart of Superior National Forest with ample recreational opportunities. Bowstring Lake is just off the west end of the runway and offers resort amenities. RAF volunteers completed two campsites, one with four tent pads and one with five tent pads. Each site now has an RAF fire ring, a picnic table and is just a short walk to a newly constructed outhouse. They installed a mailbox to hold a sign-in book and RAF information. All of the projects were funded by an RAF grant.
Montana
Ryan Field
Ryan Field (2MT1) is a private airstrip owned by the RAF via the generous donation of Ben and Butchie Ryan. The airstrip is located one mile southeast of West Glacier, MT, and is depicted on the Great Falls Sectional Chart.
Lincoln Airport
RAF Founding Director and now Director Emeritus Jerry Cain has worked with the Montana Aeronautics Division (MAD) since Lincoln Airport (S69) was rebuilt in 2005 to help improve and maintain recreational facilities at the airport. Jerry is also the AOPA Airport Volunteer and listed in the Montana Airport Directory as the local contact for Lincoln Airport.
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
Pilots taxi to the shelter at Gallatin Field in Bozeman, Mont., to have lunch or camp overnight.
Russian Flat Airstrip
Russian Flat is the newest public airstrip on Forest Service grounds in the Continental United States. The airstrip is the result of a partnership between The Recreational Aviation Foundation, The Montana Pilots Association, and the Lewis and Clark National Forest. The Montana Pilots Association provided all the volunteer labor for the airstrip construction and The Recreational Aviation Foundation provided the funding for the airstrip. Century Companies of Lewistown, MT provided donated labor and equipment for the airstrip construction.
Cow Creek
The RAF partnered with the Montana Pilot’s Association (MPA) and participated in the BLM planning process that secured the existence of 2 airstrips in the Missouri River Breaks. These airstrips are within the Missouri River Breaks National Monument. Cow Creek is one of these strips.
Left Coulee
Together with the Montana Pilot's Association (MPA) the RAF has participated in the BLM planning process that secured the existence of 6 airstrips in the Missouri Breaks. These airstrips are within the Missouri River Breaks National Monument. Left Coulee is one of those strips.
Bullwhacker
Together with the Montana Pilot's Association (MPA) the RAF has participated in the BLM planning process that secured the existence of 6 airstrips in the Missouri Breaks. These airstrips are within the Missouri River Breaks National Monument.
Woodhawk
Together with the Montana Pilot's Association (MPA) the RAF has participated in the BLM planning process that secured the existence of 6 airstrips in the Missouri Breaks. These airstrips are within the Missouri River Breaks National Monument.
Black Butte North
Together with the Montana Pilot's Association (MPA) the RAF has participated in the BLM planning process that secured the existence of 6 airstrips in the Missouri Breaks. These airstrips are within the Missouri River Breaks National Monument.
Knox Ridge
Together with the Montana Pilot's Association (MPA) the RAF has participated in the BLM planning process that secured the existence of 6 airstrips in the Missouri Breaks. These airstrips are within the Missouri River Breaks National Monument.
New Hampshire
Wentworth
Wentworth NH96. The RAF has a collaborative agreement with the owner to provide airstrip maintenance and upkeep in exchange for provisional use of the airstrip and access to the recreational amenities. Please call airstrip owner, John Meade, to receive instructions (781-308-2451).
Parlin Field Airport
What began in 2015 as a cooperative efforts by the State, the FAA, the RAF and a small group of tenants and supporters, New Hampshire’s Newport/Parlin Field (2B3), is now an active “go-to” place for townspeople, regional and local.
Alton Bay Ice & Seaplane Base
When winter comes to New England, the seaplane base at Alton Bay, (B18) on Lake Winnepausakee, NH starts to freeze. An RAF grant has partially funded the ice base.
New Mexico
Reserve Airport
Reserve Airport (T16) is a public use airport located approximately 6 miles west of Reserve, New Mexico. New Mexico State Liaison Ron Keller represented RAF at an initial meeting in 2017 with the Catron County Manager to advocate for the airport as an important recreational access point. Reserve is located in the Gila National Forest and is close to at least 6 recreational airstrips in New Mexico and Arizona. The airport master plan was reviewed and self-serve fuel and AWOS are in future plans. Also, in 2020, a modular building is under consideration to be relocated to the airport to serve as a visitors' lounge. NMPA and RAF volunteers have installed a fire ring and picnic tables. Reserve Airport is the location of the annual Gila Regional Fly-in.
Negrito Airstrip
Negrito Airstrip (0NM7) is located in the Gila National Forest approximately 18 miles southeast of Reserve, New Mexico. Volunteers have made several improvements over the years including a camping area with fire ring, tie-downs on both sides at camping area, south windsock installation, and repair of the tetrahedron. In May of 2018, with USFS Challenge funding secured by the RAF, a NMPA/USFS work party was able to replace and repair 1.5 miles of fence. Over 30 volunteers were present from several states. In July of 2019, a vault toilet was transported from the Ranger Office and installed at Negrito with funding provided by NMPA. Also, a RAF grant was approved for continuing maintenance and cleaning supplies so volunteers can keep it clean and stocked.
Amigos del Cielo
Amigos del Cielo (NM90) is a private airstrip 4 miles north of Rodeo, New Mexico near the Arizona border. It is considered permissive use so prior permission is not required. Camping, lodging, and hangars are available at the airstrip. Star gazing and bird watching are popular activities in the area, and the Chiricahua Wilderness is just a few miles away in Arizona. In 2017, a RAF grant was approved to build and install fold over windsock poles at the airstrip. Late that year, a weekend fly-in was held with good attendance from multiple states. Another weekend fly-in was held early in 2020, again with good attendance from several states.
New York
Boonville Airfield
The RAF has supported Boonville Airfield since 2013, co-sponsoring it's annual Boonville Fly-in and Pig Roast.
Ohio
Swank Field
Airport owner and RAF volunteer Freeman Swank is happy to add Swank Field to the RAF map beginning with a successful RAF Fly In August 13-21, 2016.
Oregon
Please refer to the Airfield.Guide for safety briefings and more information about each airfield. Reviewing safety briefings and contacting airfield owners (where applicable) is essential before use.
McKenzie Bridge State Airport
McKenzie Bridge State Airport (00S) is a beautiful public use backcountry airfield in the Cascades Mountains. There is primitive camping available on the airfield with a pit toilet, but no potable water. Across the adjacent highway is a USFS campground with facilities. There is walking access to the McKenzie River for fishing, kayaking or rafting. From the USFS campground, you can access the 25 miles long McKenzie River trail for hiking or world class single-track mountain biking. Numerous river guides, outfitters, and accommodations nearby. The RAF works in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Aviation to maintain this beautiful airport.
Sunrise Valley Ranch
Sunrise Valley Ranch (29OR), an 11,000 acre working cattle ranch east of Prineville, OR hosts a new backcountry airstrip, developed with RAF assistance. The 2,100 ft x 60 ft dirt airstrip sits in a small valley at 4,400 ft elevation, surrounded on three sides by 6,400 ft mountains. Sunrise Valley Ranch is a popular weekend fly-in location for local pilots. Family style breakfast or lunch is available with prior arrangement. The owners also offer bunkhouse style overnight accommodation.
Mountain Views Airfield
Mountain Views Airfield is a private use/permission required airfield located in Condon, Oregon. The airfield was developed with assistance from the RAF and offers access to private overnight accommodation. Located on a working dry wheat farm, about 8 miles Northwest of Condon, Oregon, Mountain Views is a 1,650 ft x 40 ft turf runway. Self-contained overnight accommodation for up to 12 people is available, by prior arrangement, in a large farmhouse.
Minam River Lodge
The Minam River Lodge (7OR0) is located in northeast Oregon, deep in the heart of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Originally built in 1950 by local outfitters as a small hunting lodge, over the decades and through a succession of owners, the Lodge fell into disrepair. Volunteers from the RAF, Oregon Pilots Association, Idaho Pilots Association and Backcountrypilot.org used airplanes and helicopters to remove tons of abandoned equipment and debris, and to bring in hundreds of loads of new building supplies. Located in a beautiful wilderness setting, the Minam River Lodge is the perfect fly-out location for a relaxing lunch or a long, peaceful weekend retreat with that someone special.
Owyhee Reservoir State Airport (Pelican Point)
The RAF is working in collaboration with Oregon Pilots Association, Idaho Aviation Association, and Oregon Department of Aviation to restore Owyhee State Airport, (28U) at Pelican Point. This public-use 1,840 ft. dirt airstrip became extensively degraded. Volunteers are restoring the airstrip surface, planting new grass, and conducting other maintenance. The airport offers primitive camping and fishing in a spectacularly remote setting.
Wild Billy Lake
Wild Billy Lake (OR29) is located on 1,100 acres of private land in south-central Oregon. The property sits on a mesa above the Sycan and Sprague river valleys at 4,500-ft elevation. With no signs of civilization, you have a feeling that you are completely alone with nature. The lake is over 200 acres in size and is managed as a destination retreat for fly fishermen in search of trophy rainbow trout. Wild Billy Lake is so much more than just a world-class fishery; it is a place to experience the High Desert ecosystem in a private, intimate setting. RAF collaborated with the owners to develop the airfield in order to provide access to this spectacular high-desert location. Self-contained overnight accommodation in two rustic cabins is available by prior arrangement.
Rager Creek
Rager Creek is a USFS airstrip located in the Ochoco National Forest in Central Oregon. Collaborating with USFS, the RAF has completed a number of safety and amenity improvements to the 2,800 feet long gravel airstrip. The airstrip is very remote, located in the Central Oregon high-desert, offering a quiet place to picnic or overnight camp. There are also several historic buildings at the Ranger Station that were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Chukar Flats
Chukar Flats is a challenging backcountry airstrip, located in North Central Oregon in a deep canyon along the east bank of the John Day River. The John Day River is dam-free for all of its 280 mile length, and is the nation’s third-longest free-flowing river. It is home to the healthiest populations of wild summer steelhead in the Columbia River basin. The airstrip provided a wonderful location for overnight camping. RAF members regularly volunteer to maintain the airstrip by clearing brush and repairing damage caused by wildlife.
Nehalem Bay State Airport
Nehalem Bay State Airport (3S7) is located immediately adjacent to an Oregon State Park. There are primitive camping facilities on the airfield and campers are welcome to use the shower facilities in the State Park. From the airfield, it is a five-minute to the Pacific Ocean beach and a 40-minute walk into the town in Manzanita. RAF volunteers annually assist with maintenance of the airfield and camping grounds.
Dug Bar
Dug Bar is a beautiful grass airstrip located deep within Hells Canyon, adjacent to the Snake River. Offering overnight camping, fishing and hiking opportunities, Dug Bar is a wonderful backcountry location to escape winter weather. Volunteers from The Idaho Aviation Association, Wallowa County Pilots Association and the RAF undertake annual maintenance of the Dug Bar airstrip.
Texas
Texas State Parks Agreement
The RAF has established a partnership regarding airstrips in Texas State Parks. A formal agreement was signed between the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, (TPWD) and the Recreational Aviation Foundation on March 18, 2022.
“This is far more than an agreement to provide volunteers and RAF grant money for projects in Texas,” RAF Chairman John McKenna said. “The State of Texas is looking to the RAF for expertise and guidance on managing aviation assets in their parks while identifying new opportunities to provide additional recreational access.” RAF Texas Liaison Tres Clinton worked closely with Texas State Representative and RAF Liaison John Cyrier on this MOU.
The agreement also authorizes the RAF to assist TPWD in “planning future recreation aviation opportunities by proposing areas and airstrips to be utilized for recreational aviation access and purposes.”
TPWD will collaborate with the RAF when opportunities arise for participation in public planning, implementation, and evaluation of land, water, and waterways for projects designed to enhance aviation access to state parks.
Utah
Mexican Mountain
Airstrip is within a WSA designation (Wilderness Study Area); BLM controlled.
Escalante Airport
Escalante Airport (1L7) has a 5,000 ft paved runway. The RAF with the Utah Backcountry Pilot's Association constructed a pilot shelter on the field. It provides great camping. There is a shelter, running water, electricity, small refrigerator, toilet and shower available. Also, a fire pit and firewood on the site. This spot is well worth visiting.
Vermont
Allenholm Airport
Allenholm Airport (VT26), located in South Hero, Vermont, is a privately owned, public use airport.
Washington
Sullivan Lake
Sullivan Lake is a very special place with plenty to do after you land or splash in. It is a great place to bring the whole family. There is a USFS campground adjacent with seasonal camp hosts, water, vault toilets and bear-proof garbage receptacles. We suggest you pack hiking shoes, swim suits, fishing poles and s’mores fixins’!
Wyoming
Upton Municipal Airport
RAF Wyoming State Liaison Lori Olson is the Upton airport manager and chairs the Upton Airport Board. When the city attempted to turn the strip into a waste transfer station and county dump, her board stepped up to save the airport.
Miracle Mile
Miracle Mile is a public use airstrip in Wyoming, located on the Miracle Mile section of the Platte River -- a renowned fly fishing area. Engstrom Campground, a USFS campground, is 0.5 miles SW of the runway, with an outhouse facility.
FAQ
What does the RAF do?
Our mission statement says it best: “The Recreational Aviation Foundation preserves, maintains, and creates airstrips for recreational access.”
The RAF was founded by a group of pilots who were concerned about the loss of backcountry strips. Since our inception in 2003, we have prevented the closure of airstrips and even built new ones.
Where can I visit with you in person?
See our events calendar page for a list of upcoming places where you can visit with Team RAF members.
How do I contact you?
Contact us at the address and phone number below:
The RAF
1711 West College
Bozeman, MT 59715
406-582-1723
What have you guys accomplished?
There are many accomplishments, including two new airstrips that are now publicly available as a direct result of RAF work, as well as our participation in the General Aviation Caucus in U.S. Congress. For more details, visit the RAF Achievements web page.
What are the benefits of joining the RAF?
Aside from the obvious benefit of helping us preserve, maintain, and create public airstrips, donor members and above can attend member-only fly-in events. If you join as a Friend (no donation required), you will receive periodic email updates of our progress as well as directed bulletins for issues that affect you.
How will you spend my donation?
Our funds are used directly for preserving and maintaining airstrips. This includes construction costs of items such as pilot shelters, new runways, and airstrip facilities, travel to Washington D.C. to meet with congressmen, promoting the RAF at trade shows, and mailing to our members — all to serve you, the RAF members.
Are my donations tax deductible?
Since the RAF is a 501(c)(3) public charity, all donations are tax deductible.
How long have you been around?
The RAF was founded as a public charitable non-profit 501(c)(3) organization in December 2003.
There are so many advocacy organizations --- IAA, MPA, AOPA, IAF, UBCP --- What do you guys do that’s different?
While many of these organizations concentrate on a single state. We are a national organization concerned about airstrips nationwide. We work closely with many state organizations such as the IAA and the MPA to assist them with local issues.
Planned Giving
It’s Why You Started To Fly
Do you recall the first time that you touched down on a grass airstrip? Perhaps it was where you learned to fly or maybe it was somewhere later in your flight training. The wheels lightly touched on the dew covered grass, there was no screech, and very little, if any, bounce. It may just have been the best landing you recall making. We bet the smile that found its way to your face back then is still there today. In fact the experience was so good that you were excited to do it again, but before departure you unloaded your gear, put on your hiking shoes, and headed off to explore this special place. It is not your typical airport that you are used to. There is no control tower, no departing airlines to wait for, and the hold short line is the large bush at the entrance to the only active runway.
You’re ready to leave and for the first time and you now understand the laborious calculations your flight instructor had you making as you look at those real live 50’ trees at the end of the runway. No longer a line drawing in your training manual as they await your departure. "This will really be fun", you tell yourself. Planned giving means different things to different people, but what we hope it means to you, is the recognition that the core mission of the RAF is to protect these very special places. We appreciate that you might consider some level of a planned gift to the RAF. It will be these kinds of contributions to the RAF that will provide long term lasting value to future aviators. Your gift, whether it is a cash contribution through your will, a life insurance policy, a piece of real estate, or an appreciated stock portfolio, will provide the kind of secure funds that the RAF needs to assure that those special experiences continue to be available to pilots of the future. As said by one of our founding benefactors, “It will probably take 1,000 of us to save it for one”. Please help us by being one of the 1,000.
The RAF is ready to assist you and your planning team wherever needed to match your desires to the RAF’s needs. We respect the fact that you have worked hard, saved your money, and may have some left over that could be directed to the RAF. It is this match of your dollars and our shared passion of recreational aviation, mixed in with a commitment by the RAF to do our best for you that will put a smile on our mutual faces.
Perhaps the question you now find yourself asking is “Will the RAF be here in the future?” Our answer is “Yes it will.” You and so many others have told us that this experience is worth saving. With your help the RAF knows there will be an airplane on a grass strip with laughter and a campfire in the background. Your contribution will allow someone a place to experience a part of aviation that we know you found unique. Because of your memory of that special experience as well as your passion for it, you have, through the RAF, the opportunity to create a legacy like none other.
Contact us at contact@TheRAF.org
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