Twin Springs Campground, the most remote campground managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), offers a primitive yet serene escape amid the wild steppe landscape. The campground provides essential amenities, including a vault toilet, a picnic table shaded by poplar and aspen trees, and a hand-pump with spring water for washing only.
This secluded spot is an ideal base for exploring three of the region’s most remote rockhounding areas: Twin Springs, Haystack Butte, and Negro Rocks.
Additionally, the road south of the campground offers access to Grassy Mountain, Dry Creek Canyon, and Freezout Ridge, located west of the Owyhee Reservoir.
Know Before You Go
The Twin Springs area is a remote desert destination that requires careful preparation. Here are some essential tips for a safe and rewarding rockhounding experience:- Lack of Services: No services, including gas stations, drinking water, or cell reception, are available within 20-30 miles of the site. Ensure your vehicle is fully fueled and stocked with all essentials before you go.
- Wildlife Precautions: Rattlesnakes are common in this area. Stay alert and keep an eye on your surroundings to avoid encounters.
- Weather Caution: Avoid visiting during rainy conditions or when the roads are wet, as the terrain can quickly become treacherous and dangerous.
- Vehicle Requirements: A rugged, high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended, along with some off-road driving experience.
- Supplies: Bring spare tires, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Due to limited cell service, inform someone of your travel plans or carry a satellite communication device for emergencies.
- Safety Preparations: Familiarize yourself with desert safety practices to better prepare for the unique challenges of this remote and stunning landscape.
Twin Springs Campground | Facts
Best time: May through October
Managed by: Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Amenities: Vault toilet, hand-pump water for washing only, picnic table, and fire ring
Activities: Camping, rockhounding, and wildlife observing
Road access: A high-clearance 4WD vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 3,100 ft (950 m)
Twin Springs Campground is located:
- 36 miles southeast of Nyssa
- 260 miles east of Bend
- 420 miles southeast of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Driving Directions to Twin Springs Campground
The route from Vale (Highway 20/26) is longer and rougher, so we recommend starting from Nyssa instead for a smoother drive..
From Nyssa,
- Take Highway OR 201 and drive for 8 miles to Owyhee Avenue
- Turn right onto Owyhee Avenue and head 6 miles east to Mitchel Butte Road
- Turn left onto Mitchel Butte Road and continue 0.5 miles to a fork; at the fork, bear right
- Drive 4.9 miles to another fork and take the right road, and after 0.3 miles keep right
- Continue 0.9 miles to the next fork and go straight
- Drive 2.4 miles to Twin Springs Road
- Turn left onto Twin Springs Road and follow for about 12.8 miles to the campground.