About Leslie Gulch Area of Critical Environmental Concern
Towering cliffs painted in desert hues and honeycombed rock formations sculpted over millions of years for the landscape of this remote region. The unique soils here support a number of rare plant species, including two that are only found in the Leslie Gulch Drainage. Mule deer, California bighorn sheep, Rocky mountain elk, coyotes, and bobcats all call this area home. Birders can spot chukar, raptors, California quail, and more over these 11,000 acres. The striking geology and unique opportunity to spot plant and wildlife make Leslie Gulch the perfect area to set up camp and get away from it all.Know Before You GoCamping and fires are limited to the Slocum Creek campground. Maximum stay is 14 days.Overnight backpacking and horses are not allowed in the Area of Critical Environmental Concern.Vehicles are limited to existing roads and parking areas.Collection of vegetation, rocks and firewood is prohibited.Drinking water is not available.Toilets are available.Flash floods, wet roads, or winter conditions can make the road impassable high-clearance vehicles are recommended.Large recreational vehicles are not recommended.Point of InterestGeology and wildlife: The Leslie Gulch Tuff makes up the bulk of the volcanic formations. The area is also home to more than 200 California bighorn sheep, reintroduced in 1965.
How to Get There
Leslie Gulch is located east of the Owyhee Reservoir in Malheur County, Oregon. From Highway 95 in Idaho, go west 8 miles on McBride Creek Road to Rockville, then 1 mile north to Leslie Gulch Road and 15 miles west. You can also take Succor Creek Road from either OR-201 or US-95 to the Leslie Gulch Road Junction.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Leslie Gulch Area of Critical Environmental Concern
Heading to Leslie Gulch Area of Critical Environmental Concern? 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 Leslie Gulch Area of Critical Environmental Concern?
No central reservation system listed for Leslie Gulch Area of Critical Environmental Concern. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/15156) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Leslie Gulch Area of Critical Environmental Concern?
Leslie Gulch is located east of the Owyhee Reservoir in Malheur County, Oregon. From Highway 95 in Idaho, go west 8 miles on McBride Creek Road to Rockville, then 1 mile north to Leslie Gulch Road and 15 miles west. You can also take Succor Creek Road from either OR-201 or US-95 to the Leslie Gulch Road Junction.
How do I contact Leslie Gulch Area of Critical Environmental Concern?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-473-3144 or email: BLM_OR_VL_Mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
