About Steens Mountain Cooperative Management & Protection Area
The Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Area (CMPA) is approximately 500,000 acres of private and public land offering diverse scenic and recreation experiences. The CMPA encompasses deep glacier-carved gorges, stunning scenery, wilderness, wild and scenic rivers, and a way of life for all who live there. The 52-mile Steens Mountain Backcountry Byway provides access to four campgrounds, numerous trails, the Riddle Brothers Ranch National Historic District, wild horse roaming areas, and opportunities for fishing and hunting. The views from Kiger Gorge, East Rim, Big Indian Gorge, Wildhorse, and Little Blitzen Gorge overlooks are not to miss!Know Before You GoThere are long distances between services and amenities, such as fuel, drinking water, restrooms and cell phone reception.Most roads in the area are rough and primitive, high clearance or 4x4 vehicles along with high quality tires are recommended.The remote nature and vast landscape of the area may leave even the most experienced traveler confused or lost. Traveling with a current map of the area is essential.Point of InterestThe Steens Mountain CMPA is a mixture of public and private lands and specially designated areas where particular regulations may apply. Obey road closure signs and stay on designated open routes (which are those shown on current BLM maps) driving off road is prohibited. Respect land owners and always get permission to go onto private property.
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. Just past Frenchglen, turn left onto the Steens Mountain Loop Road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Steens Mountain Cooperative Management & Protection Area
Heading to Steens Mountain Cooperative Management & Protection Area? 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 Steens Mountain Cooperative Management & Protection Area?
No central reservation system listed for Steens Mountain Cooperative Management & Protection Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1830) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Steens Mountain Cooperative Management & Protection Area?
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. Just past Frenchglen, turn left onto the Steens Mountain Loop Road.
How do I contact Steens Mountain Cooperative Management & Protection Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-573-4400 or email: BLM_OR_BU_Mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
