Snively Hot Springs is along the Owyhee River near Owyhee Reservoir.

ONTARIO — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is asking the public to stop camping overnight at Snively Hot Springs along the Owyhee River southwest of Ontario.

“We want to keep the hot springs open for the public to use and enjoy, but if people continue to ignore the rules and engage in criminal behavior, we will have to look at other options,” Jonah Blustain, manager for the BLM’s Malheur Field Area, said in a press release.

The hot springs, beside the road leading to Owyhee Reservoir and state park, are closed to use from sunset to sunrise.

Due to an increasing amount of violations, BLM has begun to place boulders to discourage illegal camping.

“These rules have been in effect for some time but have been lightly enforced,” said Stephanie Cox, law enforcement ranger for BLM’s Vale District. “Going forward, we will be enforcing the nighttime closure more strictly. Those found in violation can be issued citations for trespassing and/or federal violation notices.”

According to the press release, violators who camp overnight tend to take part in other illicit activities such as: littering, illegal drug use, underage drinking, and driving under the influence, public nudity and causing a public nuisance.

“The BLM wants you to enjoy our public lands, but to do so responsibly — pick up your trash, stay on maintained roads and know the rules and possible restrictions before you visit an area,” Malheur County Sheriff Travis Johnson said.