Lord Flat Road, constructed in 1960 to combat the Pony Bar Fire, is the only access route still open, as the Forest Service closed all other roads in 1985. Though this track is relatively bumpy, it is manageable for a standard 4x4 vehicle. The section of the track leading to Lord Flat offers some of the best and most remote camping in Hells Canyon, as it offers stunning views of canyons, the Wallowa Mountains, and the Seven Devils Mountains.
Historically known as Buckaroo Flat, this area is named after hunter and stockman James Lord. The Lord Flat Airstrip, constructed in 1943 by Tom Willett and Joe Connor under a Forest Service contract, primarily serves hunters during the season. The airstrip, marked by a windsock and white-painted rocks, undergoes occasional volunteer maintenance but remains rough.
If you visit Lord Flat, stop by the historic Dorrance Cow Camp and Cabin. Keep your vehicle clear of the operational airstrip, which has been used since 1943 for both commercial and private aviators. Note that the Forest Service closes this road to vehicle travel from late August through November.