On this 3-day car camping trip, we celebrate the designation of the Owyhee River as an Oregon Wild & Scenic River, which occurred on October 19, 1984. Since October is FOTO’s birthday month, we have plenty to be grateful for this time of year, so visiting one of our favorite spots is key.

This trip aims to explore Outstandingly Remarkable Values (ORVs) that a Wild & Scenic River has to offer; that includes its ecology, aquatic species and other wildlife, geologic features, recreational opportunities, and scenic beauty.

About the area
One of the most remote locations in Oregon, Three Forks offers camping, fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities in the canyonland confluence of the North Fork Owyhee, Middle Fork Owyhee, and Owyhee Rivers. This area is both culturally and historically significant—exploring the history and culture of this area will be the main focus of this trip.

Camp info

The Three Forks Recreation Site (Three Forks), about 30 miles south of Jordan Valley, is a primitive campground, though there is a pit toilet. Please note there isn’t any potable water, so you will need to bring your own.

You will need a 4-wheel drive vehicle with plenty of clearance. We can provide a shuttle from the top of the rim to the campground if needed. We will provide directions on how to get to the rim/campground via email, but if you would feel more comfortable meeting us in Jordan Valley and following, just let us know.

Highlights
Enjoy learning about the human history within the Owyhee in this significant area while also celebrating the Wild & Scenic River designation and the incredible amounts of wildlife. We’ll be doing some hiking with those that are up for it, including a hike to some warm springs for a gentle soak. This is the perfect place to soak in the scenic beauty of the wild and remote Owyhee.

Proposed agenda

Friday, October 14
- 4 PM: Arrive at the campground
- Evening: Set up camp, have dinner, social time
Saturday, October 15
- 9:30 AM: Leave camp for a hike
- 4 PM: Return to camp
- 5–9 PM: Dinner, social time
Sunday, October 16
- 9:30 AM: Leave camp for a hike
- 2 PM: Return to camp, pack up
- 4 PM: Head home

Suggested gear
You are responsible for your transportation to and from as well as your own food.

Daypack
Shelter (tarp or tent, stakes, ground cloth)
Sleeping bag, sleeping pad
Headlamp
Water bottles, plenty of water
Stove, fuel
Cooking pot, utensils, knife
Food: 2 breakfasts, 2-3 lunches, 2 dinners, snacks/treats
Hygiene kit
- Toothbrush, toothpaste
- Sunscreen, chapstick
- Baby wipes
- Prescription medications
Hiking boots or trail shoes, camp shoes
Hiking clothes, camp clothes
Sun hat, sunglasses
Rain jacket, insulated jacket
Warm hat, gloves
Hiking poles (optional)
Camera, phone

Provided by FOTO

Hiking & camping guidance
Historical & cultural information
Water filter
Shade canopy
Firewood
Garmin inReach

Frequently asked questions

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?
- Participants must be 10 years or older given the remote and rough terrain.
How much does camping cost?
- Camping is free.
Can I bring my dog?
- For this trip, yes.
What is the weather going to be like?
- Check out the weather forecast for Three Forks.
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
- No, we will have a roster of the folks signed up.
Can I bring my camper for this trip?
- The road from the rim down to the river is rough and steep, so it depends on your set-up. If you have specific questions, get in touch with us.

If you have any questions not answered here, please contact Tim via email, text, or phone call: owyheefriends@gmail.com, (541) 212-1907