Warm Springs Reservoir, located 50 miles east of Burns, is one of Oregon’s top rockhounding destinations. The rugged hills and sagebrush-covered landscape surrounding the 4,500-acre reservoir offer a scenic and rewarding setting for collectors.
The area is renowned for its diverse array of treasures, including agate, jasper, petrified wood, and Apache tears. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), it remains open to the public for recreational collecting.
Dirt roads south of Highway 20 form a loop that connects several collecting sites. Some areas are easily accessible, while others require hiking or a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. Generally, the farther you explore, the better the quality and variety of rocks you’re likely to find.
Warm Springs Reservoir Rockhounding
The land surrounding Warm Springs Reservoir is home to an abundance of collectible rocks and minerals.
Surface collecting is often productive, with many specimens scattered across the ground. For those seeking more variety or larger pieces, digging may uncover hidden treasures.
Rockhounds can find a range of materials here, including agate, plume agate, jasper, petrified wood, fossil leaves, and Apache tears. Most agates are white, gray, or mossy, while jasper tends to appear in bright red, yellow, or brown hues. Petrified wood is commonly found in shades of brown or brick red.
There are multiple collecting sites around the reservoir, each offering different materials and levels of difficulty. The landscape shifts with time—new dry washes and eroded hillsides often expose rocks that have been buried for years.
As you travel the loop road south of Highway 20, stop at any promising area, especially dry washes or exposed slopes. A geology pick or small shovel can be helpful, as many specimens are partially buried.
Know Before You Go
Prepare for the remote and rugged terrain at Warm Springs Reservoir.
- Vehicle Requirements: Use a 4WD or ATV for rough roads.
- Supplies: Bring water, snacks, tools, and a map. No services exist nearby.
- Safety: Watch for rattlesnakes and bring boots for protection.
- Weather: Roads become muddy after rain. Park and hike if the road looks bad.
- Respect the Land: Refill holes after digging. This area supports cattle ranching.
Beyond the Rocks: Exploring the Area
Warm Springs Reservoir offers more than just rockhounding — it's also a peaceful destination for outdoor recreation. Anglers can fish for bass and rainbow trout in the calm waters, while campers enjoy primitive camping on the south shore beneath star-filled skies.
The area is rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for herons, eagles, deer, and antelope as you explore the rugged high desert terrain. Photographers will appreciate the dramatic landscapes and vibrant sunsets that define this remote corner of Oregon.
Nearby locations offer even more opportunities for adventure. Try Stinking Creek Road and North Beede Reservoir for plume agates and petrified wood. Visit Beulah Reservoir, where you can combine rock hunting, fishing, and camping in one scenic spot.
After a long day, unwind at Crystal Crane Hot Springs. A soak in its natural geothermal waters is the perfect way to relax and recharge for your next adventure.
Warm Springs Reservoir | Facts
Material: Agate, jasper, petrified wood, Apache tears, and rhyolite
Tools: Geology pick, hammer, and chisel
Land type: High desert
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall
Land manager: Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Fees: None
Location: 50 miles east of Burns • Oregon • USA
Road access: A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended
Elevation: 3,400-3,800 ft (1,036-1,158 m)
Places to Stay near Warm Springs Reservoir
Primitive camping is permitted on BLM land, but amenities are minimal, so pack all essentials.
The closest campground is Chukar Park Recreation Site, 20 miles north on the bank of the Malheur River. It has 19 campsites for tents and RVs. Amenities include vault toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, and a boat ramp. The campground is open year-round and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more comfortable accommodations, lodging is available in Burns, 57 miles away.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stays near Burns
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Warm Springs Reservoir Directions
There are two routes to reach the reservoir:
- The western side of the lake: From Highway 20 (at milepost 171) via Warm Springs Reservoir Road
- The eastern side of the lake: From Highway 20 in Juntura (between mileposts 189 and 190) via Juntura-Riverside Road.
Below are directions for those traveling from the west. The roads form a loop around the reservoir.
From Burns,
- Travel 39 miles east on Highway US-20 to Warm Springs Road (just after milepost 171)
- Turn right onto Warm Springs Road and follow for about 11 miles to the first site (dry washes).
GPS (Warm Springs Reservoir Rd -Site1): N 43°38.701' W 118°18.310' | 43.645, -118.305
GPS (Warm Springs Reservoir Rd-Site2): N 43°36.925' W 118°15.609' | 43.6395, -118.285
GPS (Juntura Riverside Rd - Site 3): N 43°35.993' W 118°09.017' | 43.5999, -118.1503
GPS (Juntura Riverside Rd - Site 4): N 43°36.436' W 118°08.989' | 43.6073, -118.1498