Beulah Reservoir, also known as Agency Valley Reservoir, lies in Agency Valley, about 15 miles north of Juntura. It was created by the 110-foot-high earth-fill Agency Valley Dam on the North Fork of the Malheur River and serves as an essential water storage and irrigation source for the region.
Access to the reservoir is via Beulah Road, an unpaved gravel route that runs north from Highway 20, following cattle pastures and the North Fork of the Malheur River to the dam. On both sides of the lake, chalky outcrops of sedimentary rock can be seen from the dam. These outcrops offer excellent opportunities to discover well-preserved Miocene-era leaf fossils dating back millions of years.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees the reservoir’s shoreline, while Malheur County maintains a concrete boat ramp, gravel parking area, and a vault restroom near the dam.
Beulah Reservoir Rockhounding
The primary fossil-collecting site is located near the dam. The light-colored outcrops are likely composed of diatomite or shale, which are excellent for preserving delicate plant fossils.
When looking for fossils, scan rock surfaces for signs of preserved plant material, such as leaf impressions, reddish or dark streaks, and distinctive patterns.
Some rocks break naturally, revealing ancient imprints, while others need careful splitting with a rock hammer and chisel. Fossils here often have delicate details and vein patterns.
Fragile specimens should be wrapped in paper or cushioned with protective materials to prevent damage.
The best time to explore is from late spring through late summer or fall when water levels are lower, exposing more fossil-bearing deposits.
Beyond the Rocks: Exploring the Area
The reservoir is a prime spot for fishing, with healthy populations of rainbow trout, whitefish, and bull trout. Anglers can fish from the shore, boat, or even float tube, enjoying the peaceful setting surrounded by rolling sagebrush hills. Boating is also popular, with a boat ramp providing easy water access. However, water levels can fluctuate, so checking conditions beforehand is recommended.
Beyond fishing, Beulah Reservoir offers opportunities for camping, wildlife viewing, and exploring the rugged landscape. While the reservoir has its own hot springs, Beulah Hot Springs is not maintained enough for soaking. For those looking to relax after a long day of rock collecting, Juntura Hot Springs, located on an island in the Malheur River, is just 20 miles away.
Visitors can also explore remote backroads and public lands for hiking, rockhounding, or simply taking in the vast, open scenery of Oregon’s high desert.
Beulah Reservoir | Facts
Material: Leaf fossils
Tools: Geology pick, hammer, and chisel
Land type: Reservoir shoreline
Best time to visit: May through October
Land manager: Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Malheur County
Fees: None
Location: 15 miles north of Juntura • Oregon • USA
Road access: A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended
Elevation: 3,400 ft (1,036 m)
Beulah Reservoir Camping, Lodging, and Vacation Rentals
At the southeastern edge of the reservoir, there is a campground and facility for launching and mooring boats. Free dispersed primitive camping is available along the shoreline, managed by the BLM.
Also, the BLM manages a developed campground in Chukar Park Recreation Site, 9 miles south of Beulah Reservoir. It offers RV sites, drinking water, picnic areas, and restrooms.
The closest lodging is available in the Burns-Hines area, 77 miles west, or in Ontario, 90 miles east of the reservoir.
Affordable vacation rentals for short- and long-term stays in Hines
Affordable vacation rentals for short- and long-term stays in Ontario
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Directions to Beulah Reservoir
From Highway 20 at the west end of Juntura,
- Turn north onto Hildah Road
- After 0.2 miles, bear left onto Beulah Road
- Drive 14.3 miles to Agency Mountain Road at the dam
- Turn left, cross the dam, bear left, and park where suitable.
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