2014 Map of Sand Gap

About this map

Virginia Valley and Anderson Valley define the drainage patterns of this Harney County landscape, where the South Fork Malheur River cuts across the high desert terrain. The map documents a sparsely populated region of Oregon characterized by wide basins and volcanic features like Round Mountains and the curiously named Hole in the Ground. Connectivity is provided by Or-78 and the trace of the Old Hwy, following the natural passage through Sand Gap. Water management is central to the area's geography, evidenced by features such as Mahon Reservoir, Jenkins Reservoir, and seasonal drainages like Camp Cr and Buster Cr. The alignment of Anderson Valley Rd and Virginia Valley Rd highlights the local dependence on these valley corridors for movement between the higher elevations and the river basin.