Leslie Gulch is a canyon in Malheur County, Oregon, United States. It is on the east side of Owyhee Lake, a reservoir on the Owyhee River. Yeah sure it’s technically in OR, but it’s so close we can just ignore that technicality. Its abundant and striking rock formations are made of tuff. Tuff is a type of rock made of volcanic ash ejected from a vent during and eruption, it’s then lithified into a solid rock. The gulch was named after a local rancher, Hiram E. Leslie, who was hit by lightning here in 1882. The area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management.

At one end of the canyon is Owyhee Lake, there you can find a boat launching ramp – but at certain times during the year the water level may be too low to use it. There’s also a campground near by operated by the BLM.

Boating, camping, hiking, and rock climbing make the area a great destination for those who love the outdoors. Be wary of the sparse shade though and come prepared.

The wildlife consists of deer, coyotes, bobcats, elk, and even bighorn sheep. Watch out for snakes! The area also has rattlesnakes.

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