Crane Hot Springs sits 25 miles outside Burns, Oregon at an elevation of 4,160 feet in the high desert landscape of eastern Oregon. The region features dramatic temperature shifts, with summer days reaching the 90s and winter nights dropping below freezing. The area's geothermal activity creates natural hot springs that maintain approximately 100°F year-round, making it a popular destination when exploring the vast Harney Basin.
What to do
Explore wildlife refuges: Within driving distance of Burns RV Park, visitors can experience the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. "Our truck broke down just outside of Burns and we ended up having our travel trailer towed to this RV park. Close to the Malheur Wildlife Refuge and a great stopover if you need a night to rest while driving through the high desert of Oregon," notes one camper.
Stargaze after dark: The expansive night skies at Chickahominy Reservoir Campground provide excellent stargazing opportunities. A visitor mentioned, "Stars are amazing here," while another appreciated the "360 degree vistas. Quiet." The campground's remote location minimizes light pollution.
Soak in geothermal waters: The natural hot springs at Crane Hot Springs allow 24-hour access for overnight guests. "The hot springs are open 24/7 which is nice. There is a nice changing room/restroom," shares one visitor who appreciated the round-the-clock availability.
What campers like
Multiple accommodation options: At Crane Hot Springs, guests appreciate the variety of lodging choices. "This is a relatively isolated area but we were here for the hot springs. The grounds are kept up nicely and they are actively doing upgrades," shares one camper who stayed in the RV sites.
Quiet environment: Many campers value the peaceful atmosphere at Burns RV Park. One visitor noted, "We like this campground because it's very open and easy to maneuver in. The sites are spread out and not close together." The spacious layout helps maintain privacy between sites.
Budget-friendly options: Chickahominy Reservoir Campground offers affordable camping at $8 per night. A camper reported, "Potable water fill up. Pit style toilets. $8/night. No showers or hook ups. Picnic benches and fire rings at each site. Nice views."
What you should know
Weather conditions: The high desert climate brings variable weather patterns and strong winds. At Chickahominy Reservoir, a camper warned, "Can be very windy." Another mentioned that despite being near water, they "didn't really see any bugs during the daylight hours though."
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds in the area have basic amenities. At Bosch's Big Bear RV Park, "There is no playground, laundry nor showers, but they do have a porta-potty and a small tent area. There's obviously water, electric, and sewer at each RV site."
Seasonal considerations: Be prepared for insects in warmer months. One camper at Chickahominy Reservoir shared, "We were warned that mosquitoes would be a problem here at night by a local fisherman and boy they were not wrong! We have one of those bug lights you put outside to attract and kill bugs and the thing was overwhelmed!"
Tips for camping with families
Communal spaces: Some campgrounds offer shared facilities for family activities. Burns RV Park provides "camp items and alcohol for sale until 6pm. There are laundry, shower & bathroom facilities, and yard games on site too for convenience and fun!"
Child-friendly yurt options: Yurt camping near Burns, Oregon offers families comfortable shelter with the outdoor experience. At Crane Hot Springs, the yurt accommodations are ideal for families seeking a compromise between tent camping and cabin stays.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can enjoy spotting local fauna. One visitor at Burns RV Park mentioned, "Love all the quail, squirrels and listening to coyotes at night. Drove out to do the Steens Mountain loop, see the Round Barn, etc."
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Be prepared to make adjustments at some sites. A camper at Burns RV Park noted, "Our site was unlevel so we needed our levelers." This is common in the region's varying terrain.
Site selection strategy: At Bosch's Big Bear RV Park, an experienced RVer advised, "There are 10 FHU sites that are pull throughs. However, if you're longer than about 35' it is best to just line up on your site in the huge parking lot and back-in. The lane for pulling through is a little tight."
Utility details: Check which services are available seasonally. At Bosch's Big Bear RV Park, "Sites 1-4 have 30 & 50 amp. The other sites have 30 amp only," and they are "open year round but water is turned off November to March."
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