Bassar Diggins

Hello, Oregon explorers! If you're looking for a unique and rewarding camping experience that combines rugged outdoor adventure with essential comforts, then Bassar Diggins Campground near Huntington, Oregon, should be on your radar. This hidden gem offers a fantastic basecamp for those eager to explore the vast and scenic landscapes of Eastern Oregon, particularly the magnificent Lookout Mountain. It’s a place that truly speaks to the spirit of Oregonians who love to hike, enjoy breathtaking vistas, and embrace the tranquility of the wilderness.

Bassar Diggins is a smaller, more intimate campground, known for its strategic location right by Lookout Mountain. As one local enthusiastically shared, "This is a great campsite that is right by Lookout Mountain." It’s designed for those who appreciate a more primitive setting but still value a few key amenities. Imagine waking up to fresh mountain air, knowing that a challenging yet rewarding hike to a lookout tower awaits. Even when snow blankets the ground, as one review noted, the essential facilities like the vault toilet remain accessible, proving its year-round utility for dedicated outdoor enthusiasts. This campground truly offers a blend of accessibility and rugged charm, perfect for your next Oregon adventure.

Bassar Diggins Campground is nestled in the scenic terrain near Huntington, Oregon, in the eastern part of our beautiful state. Its address is simply Huntington, OR 97907, USA, indicating its somewhat remote, yet accessible, forest location. This campground is notably situated atop Big Lookout Mountain at an elevation of approximately 7120 feet, offering truly spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

To reach Bassar Diggins from I-84 at Durkee, you'll cross under the interstate onto Manning Basin Road, heading east. From there, you'll drive northeast for approximately 13 miles to reach the campground. It’s important to note that this is considered a "fair weather road" and should not be attempted in winter when there is snow on the ground. The journey itself is part of the experience, winding through a mix of Western Juniper, Douglas Fir, and Aspen habitats, showcasing the unique ecology of this isolated area. While it provides a sense of seclusion, reviews suggest it’s generally accessible, even featuring "small gravel paths" that contribute to its "Handicap accessible" nature, a thoughtful detail for ensuring more people can enjoy this stunning location. Always check local road conditions, especially after adverse weather, to ensure a smooth trip to this elevated retreat.

Bassar Diggins Campground provides a focused set of amenities designed to enhance a primitive camping experience while still offering key conveniences. It caters to campers who are largely self-sufficient but appreciate basic facilities.

• Designated Campsites: The campground features four individual camping spots, each equipped with a picnic table and a sturdy metal fireplace, ideal for cooking and enjoying a warm fire.
• Water Pump: A significant highlight and convenience for campers is the presence of a "working water pump in the middle of the campsite," providing a source of fresh water. It's always advisable to treat any water from natural sources.
• Vault Toilets: Bassar Diggins offers a "very nice bathroom" in the form of a vault toilet, ensuring basic sanitary facilities are available for all visitors. This amenity has been noted to be available even with "deep snow."
• Firewood Gathering: Campers can gather dry firewood nearby, allowing for traditional campfire experiences, though it’s always good practice to bring some of your own or check local regulations.
• Accessibility Features: The campground has "small gravel paths and not cement," which contributes to its "Handicap accessible" nature, aiming to make the outdoor experience enjoyable for a wider range of visitors.

It's important for campers to be prepared for a primitive setting. There are no electrical hookups, showers, or other extensive services typically found in more developed campgrounds. This minimalist approach allows visitors to truly connect with the natural environment.

Bassar Diggins Campground stands out with several distinct features that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon:

• Proximity to Lookout Mountain: The campground's most prominent feature is its location "right by Lookout Mountain." This provides direct access to a rewarding hike up to the Lookout Tower. The ascent is described as taking "around 45 minutes walking switchback style," promising panoramic views at the summit.
• Stunning Views: Being atop Big Lookout Mountain at over 7000 feet, the campground and its immediate surroundings offer truly "spectacular views" of the diverse habitat below, including Western Juniper, Douglas Fir, and Aspen.
• Intimate Camping Experience: With only "4 camping spots," Bassar Diggins offers a more private and less crowded atmosphere compared to larger campgrounds, allowing for a quieter and more immersive natural experience.
• Accessible Trails: Beyond the main ascent to the lookout, there is also a "nice 20 minute trail to walk right by the camp," providing a gentler option for a leisurely stroll and local exploration.
• Working Water Source: The presence of a "working water pump" is a significant convenience for a primitive campground, reducing the need for campers to carry in all their water supply.
• Wildlife Viewing: The isolated nature of the area, with its unique plant communities, suggests opportunities for birding and observing other local wildlife, making it a "very isolated birding experience."
• Rustic Charm: The combination of basic, well-maintained facilities and the surrounding natural beauty provides an authentic, rustic camping experience cherished by those looking to disconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors.

Bassar Diggins Campground is typically managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) as part of the public lands in Oregon. Given its more primitive nature, direct phone numbers specifically for the campground are generally not available.

Address: Huntington, OR 97907, USA

For the most current information regarding Bassar Diggins Campground, including road conditions, fire restrictions, or any temporary closures (such as those due to wildfires, as mentioned in public alerts), it is best to contact the nearest BLM office responsible for the area. The BLM Vale District Office would be the relevant contact for lands around Huntington, Oregon. While specific contact numbers for the campground itself might be elusive, the BLM can provide essential operational details and safety advisories for your visit to this remote yet rewarding site. Always check official sources before heading out.

For Oregon locals, Bassar Diggins Campground represents an authentic and rewarding opportunity to connect with our state's diverse landscapes, especially the lesser-explored beauty of Eastern Oregon. Its prime location right by Lookout Mountain makes it an irresistible draw for hikers and those seeking unparalleled panoramic views. The ability to walk a mere 45 minutes up a switchback trail to a fire lookout tower offers an accessible yet adventurous summit experience that many Oregonians cherish.

The intimate setting, with just four camping spots, ensures a peaceful and uncrowded environment, a valuable feature for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more populated areas. The presence of a working water pump and a "very nice" accessible vault toilet adds a layer of comfort to this otherwise primitive site, making it manageable for families or individuals who appreciate basic amenities without compromising the wilderness feel. The ease of gathering firewood nearby further enhances the traditional camping experience.

Bassar Diggins truly offers a gateway to some of Oregon's unique high-desert and forested birding habitats, providing a "very isolated birding experience" for nature enthusiasts. It's a place where you can truly unplug, enjoy the quiet, and immerse yourself in the natural rhythms of our state. For Oregonians seeking stunning views, a sense of solitude, and a direct connection to the land, Bassar Diggins is more than just a campground; it’s an invitation to discover the rugged charm and hidden wonders right in our own backyard.

Bassar Diggins

Huntington, OR 97907, USA