Cabins near Burns, Oregon provide year-round accommodations in this high desert region where elevations range from 4,000-5,000 feet. The area experiences dramatic temperature swings, often dropping 30-40 degrees between day and night even in summer. Eastern Oregon's cabin rentals typically serve as bases for wildlife viewing, hunting, and exploring the region's volcanic formations.
What to do
Hot springs soaking: Crane Hot Springs offers 24/7 access to their natural hot spring pool for overnight guests. "It is very hot and so relaxing. They let you use it all night long," notes one visitor who appreciated the stargazing opportunities while soaking. The facility includes both a communal hot spring pond and private soaking tubs.
Wildlife viewing: The area near Burns serves as a prime location for birding at the nearby Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. "This place mainly attracts birders in the spring, hunters in the fall, and people passing through," explains one camper staying at The Narrows RV Park. Wild horses can also be spotted in certain areas—one visitor at Murderers Creek Guard Station reported "we ended up hiking to Horse Mountain (about 3.5 miles from the cabin), and saw wild horses early in the morning."
Fishing opportunities: Local streams and creeks provide fishing options, especially in spring. A visitor at Murderers Creek Guard Station mentioned, "In the spring, I imagine you can fish the creek behind the cabin." For better fishing, another camper advised, "Fishing is good if you go over to the John Day river."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cabin guests frequently mention the cleanliness of accommodations. At Burns RV Park, one camper appreciated the "nice shop/office sells propane and ice, so we were able to restock on both (plus they have wine and ice cream if you need a little splurge)." The park also offers "lots of camping games available to play."
Community spaces: Many cabin properties provide common areas for guests. A visitor at Crane Hot Springs noted, "They have a little common area with coffee, wifi. Also a shared kitchen space with a freezer so if you have ice packs that need to be frozen again they have it."
Rustic charm: Historic guard stations converted to rental cabins offer unique stays. A visitor at Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin appreciated the "clean, well maintained, cooking supplies provided, heated house with fridge. Outhouse was clean." These properties typically maintain their original character while providing basic comfort.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially during hunting season and summer months. Crane Hot Springs gets "busy so make sure to check reservations."
Varying amenities: Cabin facilities range from rustic to well-equipped. At Murderers Creek Guard Station, a visitor noted "NO running water for drinking or cooking, so bring plenty of water." Yet it still offers "propane heat and powered appliances, so no need to sacrifice meal quality or comfort."
Weather preparation: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. A visitor noted about the Malheur National Forest area, "We were here for Thanksgiving and it was great to be able to explore during the crisp days, and come back to a warm cabin late in the afternoon." Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F while dropping significantly at night.
Tips for camping with families
Outdoor games: Several cabin properties provide recreation options. At Burns RV Park, "They have a store as well that offers some items you may have forgotten as well as ice, sodas, coffee, and adult beverages. They have lots of camping games available to play."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers excellent educational opportunities for children to observe wildlife. "We saw Pronghorn in the Silvies Valley heading to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge," noted one family visiting the area.
Pack entertainment: Remote cabin locations mean limited connectivity. Bring games, books, and activities for children, especially at forest service cabins like Fall Mountain Lookout Cabin where there are no nearby facilities or recreation options beyond nature exploration.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some RV sites require adjustment. At Burns RV Park, a camper noted "Our site was unlevel so we needed our levelers."
Power options: Check power requirements before booking. "Most sites are 30 amp. The ones with 50 amp were not marked at all," reported one RV visitor at The Narrows RV Park who struggled to find the right hookups.
Tree considerations: Be aware of trees at certain RV parks. One camper at Burns RV Park warned "Our back in spot was under trees that drip sap. We have sap on our rig and our tow."
