It was designated wilderness by the United States Congress in 1984 and now comprises a total of 17,200 acres (6,961 ha).

[1] Like most wilderness areas in Oregon, Grassy Knob is managed by the Forest Service.

Many small streams tumble for short distances over waterfalls and through ravines in the Wilderness.

[3] Grassy Knob Wilderness is home to the Port Orford cedar, including some stands of old growth with some trunks exceeding six feet in diameter.

[1][2] Popular recreational activities in the Grassy Knob Wilderness include fishing, wildlife watching and hiking, though there are very few established trails.