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Wildhorse Creek Wild and Scenic River

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Wildhorse Creek Wild and Scenic River

The Wildhorse Creek Wild and Scenic River and Wildhorse Lake are located in the Steens Mountain Wilderness near Frenchglen, Oregon. Thanks to its high elevation and unique ecosystem, the area was designated an Area of Critical Environmental Concern and a Research Natural Area. The area spans several different landscapes, including rugged mountain locations, wetlands, and forests, making it the perfect place to hike, enjoy the scenery, and spot many native wild animals. Visitors will also see beautiful plants. There are several camping options within the Steens Mountain area, but you can also find BLM sites with camping options that suit you by searching for “BLM camping near me.”

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Wildhorse Lake Trail from Steens Summit Road

This beautiful trail passes by the lake and is usually peaceful and not crowded.

Length: 2.5 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Big Indian Gorge Trail

Located in the Steens Mountain Wilderness, this trail is ideal for hiking and backpacking and offers incredible views of the area, but it can be quite steep and strenuous in some areas.

Length: 16.9 miles

Intensity: Difficult

Pike Creek Canyon Trail

This trail offers an excellent challenge for experienced hikers. It crosses two creeks and is perfect for viewing wildflowers in the spring.

Length: 5.6 miles

Intensity: Difficult

Steens Mountain Summit Trail

This short trail climbs to the summit of the mountain and offers incredible views of the entire area.

Length: 0.9 miles

Intensity: Easy

Willow Creek Hot Springs

This trail passes through beautiful meadows and offers stunning views of the landscape.

Length: 5.1 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

Wildhorse Lake is the perfect spot to enjoy some paddling or swimming. You can also fly-fish in the lake. The Wildhorse and Kiger Creeks are also great options for fishing, and common catches include dace, sculpin, mountain whitefish, and redband trout.

Climbing

Steens Mountain is ideal for many different climbing options. Hikers will enjoy some mountaineering challenges, while rock climbers can use the mountain’s cliff faces. The nearby Burns Boulders also offer excellent bouldering options and provide routes in a range of difficulties.

Wildlife Viewing

Thanks to its remote nature, the Wildhorse Creek Wild and Scenic River is the perfect place to spot a range of wildlife. Visitors can often see pika, deer, antelope, wild horses, elk, rabbits, geese, ducks, herons, chipmunks, and porcupines.

Picnicking

There are several picnic areas that include picnic tables and barbecue grills throughout the Steens Mountain Wilderness. Nearby Burns Pond also has a picnic area, and the location provides beautiful views of the landscape. Frenchglen Wayside State Park is also a fantastic place for a picnic. There are picnic tables and fire pits. Restrooms and water are available as well.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping is available at the Steens Mountain Wilderness Resort. The resort offers large RV sites and provides easy access to the Wildhorse Creek Wild and Scenic River area. The Blitzen Crossing Campground also offers large sites, and each site is private and quiet. The nearby Page Springs Campground at the Page Springs Recreation Site offers several campsites, and there are restrooms and clean water.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping can be enjoyed throughout the Steens Mountain Wilderness. Visitors can set up a primitive site on stable ground. There are very few amenities in the area, and there is no drinking water. The area is remote, so always bring more than enough food and water. Do not drink from the creek or the lake.

RV Rentals Near Wildhorse Creek Wild and Scenic River Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Wildhorse Creek Wild and Scenic River BLM trip

The Wildhorse Creek Wild and Scenic River is a relatively remote location, and because of the vast landscape, it can be easy for even the most experienced adventurers to become turned around. Always travel with a map that is up to date or use a GPS guide. Stop to ask for directions as necessary. Remember that some areas are quite rugged and may require four-wheel-drive or all-terrain vehicles. You may also encounter wildlife or livestock on the road, so travel with caution, and let animals pass.

Because of the area’s high elevation, weather and temperatures can change rapidly and without warning. Always check the weather forecast before you head out and be prepared for weather changes. Even if the weather seems mild, dress in layers and prepare for wind or rain. Ticks and mosquitos can be abundant in some areas during the warmer months, so it’s also a good idea to use natural insect repellant and be prepared to remove ticks as necessary.

Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and wild areas, particularly environmentally important areas such as the Wildhorse Creek Wild and Scenic River, require care and management, and Leave No Trace policies can help visitors do their part. Pack all of your trash out with you. Build campfires responsibly and ensure they remain small and controlled. Use local firewood, and never import firewood or take any with you when you leave. Stay on the trails, and try to limit your impact on the plants and animals around you. Don’t pick flowers, and never take any plants home with you.