We found a gem for our first stop of this trip. A very scenic & well cared for BLM campground located near both the Steens Mountain & Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.
Page Springs - BLM Campground, near Frenchglen, OR: Site #31 (36 RV sites total) - This site has: water nearby. Campground Notes: vault toilets • dump station not available • river access • trails from campground • trails nearby • 4231’ elevation. April 4th - 9th. Miles traveled: 186 miles (tap on mileage to see route & elevation change).
Pros:
• Well maintained campground.
• First come, first serve - no reservations.
• Very quite.
Cons:
• No dump station.Overall Experience:
“Backyard of the Day”
Campground & Surrounding Area
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Friday Update: Today, a little auto touring was on the books. This included the forty-two mile self-guided Blitzen River Valley Auto Tour on a gravel road from Malheur National Wildlife Refuge’s headquarters to our campground. We also added a side trip to Diamond, OR, to see the historical hotel. A bit further down the road was the Round Barn. Then we drove through Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area.
Saturday Update: It was mostly sunny, but a very windy sort of day. Our plans were to drive the 59 mile Steens Mountain Loop Tour today. The part of the loop that started near our campground still had a locked gate. So we drove ways down the highway to the other end of the loop. After turning onto a gravel road & going about 3 miles, we found the other locked gate. Guess it's not happening on this trip. So instead, we fought the wind & wandered around the main headquarters of the historical P Ranch. Not as exciting as the drive would have been, & not much remains of the original site, but it was something to do.
You know we just had to do it — Cheers to National Beer Day! (Apr 7th)
Located in tsoutheastern Oregon lies a haven for nature enthusiasts: the Page Springs BLM Campground. Situated amidst the stunning vistas of the high desert and the imposing presence of the Steens Mountain Wilderness, this campground beckons travelers seeking solace and adventure in equal measure. Coupled with the nearby historic community of Frenchglen, a visit to this region promises an immersive experience rich in natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Page Springs BLM Campground: Nature's Sanctuary Page Springs BLM Campground is a testament to the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of southeastern Oregon. Tucked away along the banks of the Donner und Blitzen River, the campground offers a peaceful retreat for campers eager to reconnect with nature.
With its primitive campsites and minimal amenities, including picnic tables and fire rings, Page Springs fosters an atmosphere of simplicity and serenity, allowing visitors to unwind and recharge away from the distractions of modern life.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the campground serves as a gateway to a wealth of recreational opportunities. Here are some highlights:
- Hiking: Trails crisscross the surrounding Steens Mountain Wilderness, offering breathtaking views of rugged peaks, verdant meadows, and cascading streams. Whether embarking on a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, adventurers will find themselves immersed in the splendor of Oregon's backcountry.
- Wildlife Spotting: The area is home to diverse wildlife species such as mule deer and golden eagles. Keep your eyes peeled during your hikes or simply enjoy observing them from a distance.
- Fishing: Anglers will delight in the abundance of fishing opportunities along the Donner und Blitzen River, renowned for its healthy populations of trout. Cast a line from the riverbanks or float downstream in a drift boat, and you'll soon find yourself immersed in the timeless rhythm of fly fishing.
Frenchglen: A Glimpse into Oregon's Past Just a short drive from Page Springs lies the historic town of Frenchglen, a quaint community steeped in frontier lore and Western charm. Founded in the late 19th century as a cattle ranching outpost, Frenchglen retains much of its rustic character and pioneer spirit to this day. At the heart of Frenchglen stands the iconic Frenchglen Hotel, a beloved landmark that has welcomed travelers for over a century. Here, you can:
- Learn about Local History: Explore the exhibits and artifacts at the hotel's small museum, which offers insights into the area's past and its significance as a stop along the historic Oregon Trail.
- Enjoy Homestyle Cooking: Indulge in hearty meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients at the hotel's restaurant. From juicy steaks to homemade pies, dining at the Frenchglen Hotel is like stepping back in time.
- Experience Small-Town Hospitality: Interact with friendly locals who are proud of their heritage and eager to share stories about life in Frenchglen.
Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or a glimpse into Oregon's history, a visit to Page Springs BLM Campground and Frenchglen is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
