1990 Map of Whitetail Butte

About this map

The Umatilla National Forest dominates this high-altitude landscape where Wheeler, Morrow, and Grant counties converge. The terrain is defined by a series of prominent peaks and ridges, including Whitetail Butte, Mahogany Butte, and Tamarack Mtn, which overlook a network of seasonal and perennial drainages. A notable concentration of water sources is evident through numerous named springs such as Whitetail Spring, Fairview Spring, and Yearling Spring, which likely served as critical points for both wildlife and early high-country travelers. At the heart of the area, Bull Prairie Lake provides a central landmark amidst the forest. The map reflects a landscape primarily dedicated to resource management and natural preservation, with a heavy emphasis on topography and water distribution across the Rocky Flat and Kahler Basin areas. The naming conventions, such as Happy Jack Ridge and Burnt Cabin Creek, hint at the local lore and early exploration of these Oregon uplands.