2023 Map of The Basin

About this map

The Basin defines the central geography of this remote portion of Malheur County, where the high desert landscape is etched by seasonal watercourses. The drainage patterns of Dry Creek in the north and Rattlesnake Creek in the south reveal a terrain shaped by erosion, with the Red Hills rising as a distinct landform in the southwestern corner. This area remains largely open range, crisscrossed by legacy routes such as the Old Ion Hwy and primitive access ways like Dry Creek Rd. The map illustrates the persistent structure of the Public Land Survey System, showing the complex township and range sections that have organized these expansive rangelands since the early days of settlement. The minimal development suggests a landscape dedicated to cattle ranching and resource management, where travel is dictated by the few established roads following the natural contours of the basin.