Barrel Springs Back Country Byway is in northeast California, approximately 50 miles northeast of Alturas. The byway begins in Fort Bidwell and travels east into Nevada, ending at the intersection with Fort Bidwell Road. The 25-mile route follows Barrel Springs Road, which is a single-lane gravel road that can safely be driven in a two-wheel drive, high-clearance vehicle. Keep in mind that Barrel Springs crosses some remote country. Other vehicles may not pass through for one or two days; be prepared for any road emergencies. The byway is generally passable from May through mid-November. Snow closes the byway in winter; it may also become impassable after heavy rain.

Barrel Springs Back Country Byway winds through a maze of rocky rims and rolling hills covered with sagebrush and juniper. The byway offers wide open vistas of the Great Basin Plateau in the shadow of Warner Mountains to the west.

Wildlife watchers will want to be on the lookout for species common to the Great Basin. Mule deer and pronghorn antelope are usually encountered by the byway traveler. Golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, and prairie falcons are commonly seen birds of prey. Coyotes may be seen occasionally, but are more commonly heard in the evening serenading the moon.

A short side trip from the byway is Fee Reservoir. This small desert lake is stocked with trout in the spring and early summer months. A small primitive campground is also located here. Other campgrounds can be found in Modoc National Forest to the west of the byway.

Information: BLM-Susanville Field Station, 2950 Riverside Dr, Susanville CA 96130 / 530-257-0464