The full Steens Mountain Loop Road is open for the season, giving travelers and locals alike a chance to experience one of Oregon’s most spectacular scenic drives. After a long winter of snow and moisture, warmer weather and the hard work of the Bureau of Land Management’s Operations Crew have combined to clear miles of lingering snow drifts and dry out the road for safe travel. Their efforts have unlocked access to all the iconic sites and campgrounds nestled along this beloved backcountry byway.

Winding nearly 60 miles through the rugged beauty of Steens Mountain, the Loop Road connects visitors to a variety of popular stops including Page Springs, Fish Lake, Jackman Park, and South Steens campgrounds. Panoramic viewpoints await at Kiger Gorge, East Rim, Big Indian and Little Blitzen Gorges, and the Steens Summit/Wildhorse Lake area. Hiking trails, alpine lakes, and the historic Riddle Brothers Ranch offer even more reasons to linger.

“Public lands like Steens Mountain are the heart of outdoor recreation in Oregon,” said Don Rotell, District Manager for the Bureau of Land Management’s Burns District. “They’re not just beautiful places to visit. They also support rural economies through tourism and provide critical opportunities for connection with nature.”

Originally constructed in 1930 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the first leg of the road climbed from Frenchglen to Fish Lake. But World War II put a hold on completing the full route. It wasn’t until 1962 that the road was finished, clearing the way – literally – for increased recreation and tourism on Steens Mountain. Its growing popularity led to the development of key campgrounds and viewpoints, and in 1989, the road was formally recognized as a National Back Country Byway.

Many of the area’s public campgrounds operate under a modest fee structure. These fees go directly toward site maintenance, restroom upkeep, water systems, and other visitor amenities that keep the camping experience safe, clean, and accessible.

“The revenue from fee-based campgrounds helps us keep these special places open and well-maintained,” Rotell added. “When people visit and camp here, they’re not just supporting public lands, they’re also supporting nearby communities like Frenchglen, Fields, Hines, and Burns.”

Tourism driven by outdoor recreation is an increasingly important economic driver for rural areas like Harney County, bringing in revenue through lodging, dining, fuel, and local shops. As more people seek nature-based experiences, public lands continue to play a critical role in both conservation and community vitality.

The full Loop Road is typically open July through November, weather permitting. Visitors are reminded to drive with care: the road includes loose gravel, wash boarded stretches, and side roads that may be muddy or unstable. High-clearance vehicles with good tires are recommended, and travelers should carry plenty of water, fuel, and a map – cell service is limited in the area.

For current road conditions, visit the Oregon Department of Transportation’s TripCheck website at www.tripcheck.com. For recreation maps, permits, or visitor guidance, stop by the BLM’s Burns District Office at 28910 Hwy 20 West in Hines, or call (541) 573-4400. More information is also available at www.blm.gov/steens.