The Virgin Valley Caldera: June 5-7, 2026

SOLD OUT

Join Alison on a weekend exploration of the Virgin Valley Caldera within the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge on the Oregon/Nevada border.

The Virgin Valley is the remnant of a massive volcanic eruption in which petrified wood, opal, obsidian, and carnelian can be found. Come learn about hotspot volcanism, the formation of volcanic glasses, and the fossilization of wood as we hike around the cliffs and badlands of this long-ago disaster. Excitingly, we'll encounter a lot of archaeology during this trip, and participants will learn how to identify artifact material and leave it in place.

We'll camp both nights at the Virgin Valley Warm Spring, which has a natural warm pool, pit toilets, and a spring-fed shower. Our camp chef will prepare a delicious camp dinner each night. Bring your own breakfasts and lunches.

Location: 41.852925, -119.001869

Schedule: The group will meet in Denio Junction, Nevada, on the morning of Friday June 5th. From Denio Junction, the group will caravan to the Virgin Valley where we will camp for 2 nights. Participants can expect to head home by midday Sunday, June 7th.

Trip participants should be adults 18 and older who enjoy dirt road driving, spending a day on their feet out in the elements and are down to camp in all kinds of weather. All genders and vehicle types welcome. No pets.

Virgin Valley weather: Trip runs rain or shine! Average early June high is 72°F with an average overnight low of 40°F. The chance that it could rain on this trip is 25%. Wild weather is always possible. Prepare for potential hot days and possible cold nights. (Two years ago our daytime temps were in the 90's. Last year we had a snow storm. Same weekend, different years!)

Cancellation policy: A full refund will be given if a participant cancels 30 days or more before the start date of the trip. Cancellation made after the 30 day window will be given full credit towards a future trip, but no monetary refunds will be made. *Please consider this before signing up.*

Alison reserves the right to postpone and cancel trips in the event of wildfires, smoke, severe weather, extreme temperatures, and other occurrences that jeopardize group safety. In this scenario, all trip members will be given full credit towards a future trip. *No refunds will be made.*

Alison is a licensed and bonded outfitter guide. This trip is permitted by the United States Fish & Wildlife Service. Rock collection limits set by USFWS and federal laws regarding artifacts are strictly adhered to.