Your Guide to Jordan Valley, Oregon: Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore
Right in the heart of Oregon’s Owyhee Canyon Country sits Jordan Valley, a small town with a whole lot of character. For us, it is more than just a place on the map. Jordan Valley is the closest town to the iconic Owyhee River, and it is where we spend time before launching on a rafting trip or after returning from days on the water.
Whether you’re trading river stories over coffee, stretching your legs after a road trip, or planning a week of exploring desert hiking trails, Jordan Valley is the perfect town to ground your adventure. If you are planning to raft the Owyhee, try adding a day or two to either end of your trip in order to make the most of this Oregon gem.
Where to Stay in Jordan Valley
You’re not going to find cookie-cutter hotels or resorts here. Jordan Valley keeps things simple, with lodging that matches the town’s rural charm. What you will find is a warm hospitality that fits perfectly with the vibe of the town as a whole.
When looking at where to stay, start with vacation rentals or seasonal cabins. These often come with kitchens, cozy living spaces, and you’ll likely be able to find rentals that are only a short walk to town. They are a great option if you like to cook your own meals or just want a place that feels like home base.
For more traditional lodging, check out the Basque Station Motel or Sunny Ridge RV Motel. Both are affordable and full of local character. These are perfect if you just need a solid place to rest before or after a river trip.
If you’re traveling in an RV, Sunny Ridge RV and Snake River RV Park both have spots available. Tent campers have even more freedom with the surrounding BLM land, where dispersed camping is free and easy to find.
You can also drive up to Silver City, Idaho, about 30 minutes away. This historic mining town has a completely different feel. If you want to stay overnight, the Idaho Hotel is a unique historical option.
Camping Near Jordan Valley
Camping in this part of Oregon is a real-deal desert experience, and one that we recommend trying! Leslie Gulch Campground offers 18 primitive campsites, including 12 that are tent-only. You will find picnic tables and pit toilets, but no hookups, so come prepared.
For something quieter, head to Succor Creek. There you can find dispersed sites tucked along the canyon and fall asleep to the sounds of the open desert. Silver City also has free campsites along the creek that work well for a quick overnight.
There are at least 11 free dispersed camping areas on BLM land near Jordan Valley. Many are close to trailheads or hidden in desert washes. You can stay up to 14 days in any 28-day period.
If you are camping before or after a river trip, these are great options. Just make sure to check local fire restrictions and always follow Leave No Trace practices. Also, remember that desert weather can shift quickly, so bringing layers is essential. The days might be hot, but nights can get surprisingly cold.
Where to Eat in Jordan Valley
Food options in Jordan Valley are limited, but what is available is well worth your time. Rockhouse Coffee is a must-visit to start your morning. Even people who are not big coffee drinkers tend to love it.
Another solid option is Rome Station Café, located about 30 minutes from town. It has a retro diner feel and classic comfort food.
If you are heading toward Adrian, stop by The Mirage. It is a laid-back combination of diner and bar, with burgers, pizza, and cold drinks.
Grocery stores are few and far between, so if you want to picnic or cook at your campsite, plan to stock up on supplies in Homedale, Idaho before arriving.
What to Do in and Around Jordan Valley
If you have extra time, getting outside is the best way to experience this area. Start with a trip to Leslie Gulch, about 15 miles from town. Its jagged rock formations look like something from another planet. The Timber Gulch Trail is a short hike with big payoff, offering views you will remember long after your trip.
Succor Creek State Natural Area is just down the road. Here, you can explore canyon trails, stay overnight at a primitive site, or take a scenic drive through some of the region’s best landscapes.
For more adventure, the Honeycombs Wilderness offers a tough nine-mile backpacking loop. If you prefer to take it easy, head to Antelope Reservoir or Cow Lakes for swimming, fishing, or just relaxing by the water.
If you haven’t already considered rafting the Owyhee River, we highly recommend joining us on this amazing stretch of whitewater. The Owyhee is known as the “Grand Canyon of Oregon,” and this remote river winds through towering canyon walls and dramatic rock formations.
After the sun goes down, make time for stargazing. With almost no light pollution, the night skies here are some of the clearest in the Pacific Northwest.
When to Visit Jordan Valley
From March through June, rafting season kicks off as snowmelt fills the rivers. Temperatures are still cool, so bring warm layers and check the weather before heading out. Lodging can fill up fast, so booking early is smart.
July and August bring hot, dry conditions. It is a great time for camping near water or exploring early in the morning before the heat sets in. Sun protection is essential this time of year.
In September and October, cooler weather and fall colors make for great hiking conditions. You will also see fewer people on the trails, which means more space to explore at your own pace.
From November through February, snow can arrive at higher elevations. The landscape becomes quiet and scenic, but trail access may be limited. If you visit in winter, check conditions ahead of time and plan accordingly.
How to Get to Jordan Valley
Jordan Valley sits along US Highway 95 between Boise, Idaho and Winnemucca, Nevada. You will need a car to get here, and if you are planning to drive into places like Leslie Gulch or Silver City, a high-clearance vehicle is a good idea.
Why Jordan Valley is Worth the Trip
Jordan Valley is a place that invites you to slow down, look around, and take it all in. Whether you are waking up to desert silence, spending a night in town before an Owyhee rafting adventure, or watching stars from your tent, this little town has a way of sticking with you.
