About Riddle Brothers Ranch National Historic District
Riddle Brothers Ranch is part of the historic context of pioneer settlement and the development of the livestock industry in the American West. Walter, Frederick, and Benjamin Riddle were three bachelor brothers who secured home sites and raised livestock in and around the ranch. Migrating from western Oregon, they settled in the early 1900s and built their ranch by gaining control of water in the area. In the late 1950s the Riddle brothers sold their ranch holding to Rex Clemens. In 1986 BLM purchased the property from Clemens and has since managed the ranch for its historic values.Know Before You GoDriving access into the Ranch is generally permitted Wednesday-Sunday from mid-June through October. High clearance, four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Access by foot, bicycle, or horseback is permitted anytime.Amenities are few. A vault restroom is available, but drinking water, overnight use areas, cell phone service and other conveniences are not.Avoid disturbing historical sites or artifacts. Leave these remnants of the past for others to enjoy.Point of InterestRiddle Brothers Ranch was part of Oregon's last frontier. It is a uniquely preserved complex of buildings which give testimony to ranch life and living conditions "out back and beyond."
How to Get There
From Burns, take State Highway 78 southeast for approximately 2 miles. Turn right onto State Highway 205 and travel south for 60 miles to Frenchglen. Continue on 205 through the town of Frenchglen and up "P" Hill, travel approximately 10 miles, then turn left on the Steens Mountain Loop Road south entrance. The turn-off to Riddle Brothers is approximately 20 miles from Highway 205.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Riddle Brothers Ranch National Historic District
Heading to Riddle Brothers Ranch National Historic District? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Riddle Brothers Ranch National Historic District?
No central reservation system listed for Riddle Brothers Ranch National Historic District. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/255174) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Riddle Brothers Ranch National Historic District?
From Burns, take State Highway 78 southeast for approximately 2 miles. Turn right onto State Highway 205 and travel south for 60 miles to Frenchglen. Continue on 205 through the town of Frenchglen and up "P" Hill, travel approximately 10 miles, then turn left on the Steens Mountain Loop Road south entrance. The turn-off to Riddle Brothers is approximately 20 miles from Highway 205.
How do I contact Riddle Brothers Ranch National Historic District?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-573-4400 or email: BLM_OR_BU_Mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
