The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The West Little Owyhee River area is an incredibly beautiful adventure for the experienced outdoors person. It’s located about 16 miles west of Jordan Valley, Oregon, right on the border of western Idaho, and runs south to the Nevada border. The area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management, or BLM, preserving its natural beauty and making it available for the public to enjoy. As such, Bureau of Land Management camping is permitted throughout the area, though there are only a handful of sites suitable for RV camping. Besides camping, people love to visit the Owyhee River area for hiking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.
The area is perfectly situated between three national parks. Just under 600 miles to the east, you’ll find Yellowstone National Park. Head about 570 miles to the northwest, and you’ll find yourself at the beautiful Mt. Rainier National Park. If you’re heading south into California, Yosemite National Park is about 460 miles away. Jordan Valley is the closest town on the northern end of the river area. McDermitt, Nevada is a similarly small town located at the southern end of the river area. Nampa, Idaho is the closest larger town you’ll have access to, about 80 miles from the northern part of the river area.
This loop trail starts and ends at the three rivers convergence and takes a wide loop around the Three Forks Dome. If you’re willing to cautiously ford the river, you’ll enjoy relaxing in some hot springs spilling from the side of the volcanic dome.
Length: 5.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
If you’re searching for a moderately challenging off-road trail, you’ll enjoy this loop trail toward the southern end of the West Little Owyhee River area. Allow yourself two or three days to finish the journey so that you can enjoy the historic scenery from your off-road vehicle.
Length: 41 miles
Intensity: Moderate
You’ll enjoy fishing from the river itself, with no need to travel to another area to find good biting. The river is known for its smallmouth bass and trout. If you visit during the spring runoff, you’ll enjoy kayaking the river. Just keep in mind that you’ll encounter rapids and riffles during high water times, so experience is critical to ensure your safety.
The Owyhee Canyonlands provide a diverse assortment of wildlife. While here, you may see elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and California bighorn sheep. In the evenings, you’ll see up to 14 different species of bats. Keep your eyes peeled for the greater sage-grouse, golden eagles, and red-tailed hawks. Then there’s the assortment of reptiles and amphibians you’re likely to encounter, including snakes, lizards, and even frogs and salamanders.
People from all over the country come to the West Little Owyhee River area to hunt. Whether you head out on your own or use a hunting guide, you’ll have the opportunity to scout for a variety of avian and land trophies. Be sure to study the current restrictions, as the area is home to several protected species.
When you want something more modern than rustic Bureau of Land Management camping, there are several options in the area. At the northern end of the river area in Jordan Valley, Oregon, you’ll find the Sunny Ridge RV Park, complete with 40 sites, laundry, showers, and high-speed internet. Toward the southern end of the river area is Mitchell’s Stateline RV Park in McDermitt, Nevada.
There’s plenty of space around the river for Bureau of Land Management free camping. You’ll find Bureau of Land Management campgrounds with five designated campsites at the northern end of the river area at the Three Forks Recreation Site. Toward the southern end, you won’t find a formal BLM campground, but there is a good area at Anderson Crossing where you can set up camp. Just keep in mind that for both of these areas, it’s recommended to have a high clearance vehicle to manage the road and the creek crossing. If this doesn’t work for you, there are other options. Just southwest of Jordan Valley is the Antelope Reservoir, which has a small BLM camping area with four sites. You can find other options by searching online for "BLM camping near me."
There’s nothing worse than heading out for an adventure and realizing you’re ill-equipped for what you wanted to do. This is very possible when visiting the West Little Owyhee wilderness and river area. There are plenty of paths to get you close to the canyon; however, you’ll need a vehicle with high clearance. If you’re driving an appropriate vehicle, you may find success hauling a smaller travel trailer. However, don’t expect a drivable RV or large rig trailer to get through the area.
Once you have an appropriate rig, spend a little time studying the online satellite maps of the area so that you know what unmarked roads you’ll take. Pack clothing to layer because the desert temperatures can vary from near 90 in the day to the low 50s at night.
The remoteness of BLM RV camping necessitates that you bring everything with you. While the river has water, you’ll need to filter and treat it before using it, so make sure your potable water tank is full. If you’re planning for several days, empty your waste tank before leaving Jordan Valley. Come with an NOAA weather radio, substantial first aid kit, and fire extinguisher. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The West Little Owyhee area is a critical habitat for many animals, including some endangered or threatened species. While camping, aim to leave no evidence you have been there. When choosing a dispersed site, find an area that won’t disturb any vegetation and has evidence of being used previously. Make sure to pack out all refuse when you leave, and don’t dump anything on the ground.
If you have an appropriate rig, you’ll head west from Jordan Valley, OR on US-95 for about 16 miles. Look for a sign marking Soldier Creek Loop Road, Owyhee Canyon Overlook, and Three forks. Turn south and follow 3 Forks Road for about 36 miles.
If you’re heading to the Anderson Crossing Recreation Site, start from McDermitt, NV and head east on Pioneer Road, which will turn into Frenchman Creek Road. Continue your northeasterly direction until you hit Airplane Reservoir Road, which will then take you all the way to the Recreation Site.
Ready to visit Owyhee Wild and Scenic River? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
