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Alvord Desert

Overview While Steens Mountain looms to the west, the shimmering salt flats of the Alvord Desert unfold to the east. Tens of thousands of years ago, a lake almost 200 feet deep covered the Alvord Desert and extended southward into Nevada. The old shoreline forms terraces along the edge of the valley, and deep under the desert floor are the same lava flows that make up the top of Steens Mountain. The Alvord Desert playa can be either wet or dry depending on the time of year and is one of the…

  • State: Oregon
  • Managed by: Bureau of Land Management
  • Coordinates: 42.55979000000008, -118.53282999999999

Nearby & related campgrounds

  • Wildhorse Creek Wild and Scenic River
  • Kiger Creek Wild and Scenic River
  • Jackman Park Campground
  • South Steens Campground
  • Mickey Hot Springs
  • Fish Lake Campground
  • Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument
  • Christmas Valley Back Country Byway
  • Cow Creek Back Country Byway
  • Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area
  • Donner ьnd Blitzen Wild and Scenic River
  • East Shore Recreation Site
  • Fawn Creek Campground
  • Fishermen's Bend Recreation Area

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Frequently asked questions

Is Alvord Desert reservable?

Alvord Desert is primarily first-come, first-served. Use the availability view to gauge how busy it is before you go.

Where is Alvord Desert?

Alvord Desert is located in Oregon. See the map for its exact location and directions.

How do I book a campsite at Alvord Desert?

Pick your dates on the availability calendar, then reserve through the official booking link. You can also set an alert and we'll notify you if a sold-out date opens up.

Check campsite availability