Owyhee Canyonlands
The expansive Owyhee Canyonlands of Oregon encompass the Owyhee River and areas such as Leslie Gulch, Jordan Craters and the Upper West Little Owyhee River. This landscape is home to wildlife such as bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope and sage-grouse. Popular recreational activities in the Owyhee include rafting, hunting, fishing and hiking.
Protecting Oregon's Desert Heritage
- Rafters on the Owyhee River.
Photo: Leon Werdinger
With over 1.9 million acres of wildlands and hundreds of miles of Wild & Scenic rivers, Oregon's Owyhee Canyonlands represents the largest conservation opportunity remaining in the lower 48 states.
The Owyhee Canyonlands are home to the world's largest herd of California bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, Rock Mountain elk, mule deer, 7 species of bats, sage-grouse and songbirds, redband trout, longnose snakes, and pygmy rabbits. Innumerable archaeological and historical sites are hidden in its canyons.
ONDA is working with other conservation groups and local residents to identify opportunities for permanent protection for this remote and wild area. Support our work to permanently protect the Owyhee Canyonlands- take action today!
Interested in learning more about the spectacular region? Read the New York Times article, Bivoucking in Oregon's Back of Beyond," that highlights visiting the area and conservation opportunities. Then, take a look through our brochure and visit the Owyhee Canyonlands website for more information and ways to get involved. While you're there, be sure to sign up the email list.