Spring Recreation Site
541-473-3144 – Vale District Office (BLM)
About
Camping and fishing on the brownlee reservoir
The Spring Recreation Site, or Spring Rec for short, is a camping and fishing location off the beaten path away from the crowds. Spring Rec sits on the banks of Brownlee Reservoir, a 52-mile long reservoir on the Snake River. The reservoir is known for its large channel catfish, abundant crappie, and good bass fishing. The RV and tent camping sites, boat launch, boarding dock, and fish cleaning station all create a comfortable camping and fishing experience. Spring Rec is ideal for the angler, those who love the outdoors, or for those just looking for a scenic getaway.
ACTIVITIES
Camping
Of the campsites available, 9 of the sites are adjacent to parking and so are more easily accessible to people with mobility issues. Another 8 sites are in a grassy area on 2 terraces in the middle part of the Spring Rec site and are not immediately adjacent to parking. There are also 5 sites (in addition to the host site) on the narrow terrace that is closer to gravel parking. RVs can park on two of the campground’s gravel roads.
Some of the campsites are connected by narrow grass and dirt paths and/or railroad tie steps. When considering where to park and camp, watch for the gaps between the railroad ties that sit between the parking lot and many of the campsites.
Each campsite has a picnic table with an extended end to accommodate wheelchair users and a grill with no shade structure. The low height of the grills and lack of double-walled sides may present challenges to people using mobility devices.
Fishing & Boating
A fish-cleaning station, located near the middle of the site, is surrounded by a cement path that is wide enough for mobility devices, but the water spigots might be too high (4’) to be easily used by people in wheelchairs or scooters.
Brownlee Reservoir is generally full in the spring, but a drawdown begins in summer and may result in closure of the boat ramp at lower levels. Call the Baker BLM office at 541-523-1256 for current ramp conditions.
The entire site overlooks the Reservoir, and there is a turnout off the gravel load leading up to the site that allows visitors to stop and look out over the campground and water.
The campsites and boat launches are connected by a packed gravel road. One of the site’s 2 boat launches is accessible. A metal skid allows visitors who use mobility devices to transition from a cement pathway to a floating ramp, which goes up and down with the water level in the reservoir; extra assistance might be needed when the water level is low.
Wildlife Viewing
Marvel at wildlflowers dotting the desert landscape in the spring. Mule deer are a favorite camp visitor. Bighorn sheep are often spotted and occasionally elk and antelope. Chukar, orioles, and multitudes of migrating song birds make this a haven for bird watchers.
Details
Getting There
From Baker City, head east on I-84 for 40 miles to exit 345. Take US-30 east to the city of Huntington. Bear slightly left onto Washington Street and continue onto Snake River Road for about three miles. The site will be on the right.
Seasons
Accessible year-round, though draw-downs may prevent boat launch access to the reservoir in late summer.
Cost of Admission
$5 per vehicle per night.