Burns sits at 4,100 feet elevation in Oregon's high desert, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F and winter lows dropping below 20°F. RV campers often find sites fill quickly during spring birdwatching season when migrating waterfowl pass through the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Nighttime temperature swings can exceed 40 degrees even in summer.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Crane Hot Springs offers proximity to prime birdwatching areas. "We were here for the hot springs. The hot springs are open 24/7 which is nice. There is a nice changing room/restroom. The grounds are kept up nicely and they are actively doing upgrades," notes Rachel G.
Steens Mountain Loop: Burns RV Park provides a convenient base for exploring this scenic drive. "Drove out to do the Steens Mountain loop, see the Round Barn, etc. Love this area and nice to come back to a comfortable site," reports Jill R. about her September stay.
Stargazing: Chickahominy Reservoir Campground offers excellent dark skies. "Stars are amazing here," writes Jennifer. The reservoir's open setting provides unobstructed 360-degree views with "beautiful sunset" views according to Kayla T.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The Narrows RV Park maintains well-kept amenities despite its remote location. "Three all-in-one units with a code to enter. Entering was a little tricky until we got the hang of it but once in, the units were clean," notes Lee D., who stayed while passing through.
Pet amenities: Captain Tuckers Quarters features a dedicated dog area. "The off-leash area for the dogs is huge! There is no dumping, but they do have a porta potty set up (that somehow doesn't stink!)," writes Emily W. Another guest mentioned: "It's especially sweet when you find kind, interesting folks in what seems like the middle of nowhere. Do yourself a favor and stop here to stretch your legs, romp your dog at the fenced pet area."
Quiet surroundings: Burns RV Park offers a peaceful atmosphere despite highway proximity. "We didn't hear the road much at all inside our trailer. We enjoyed sitting out on the picnic table at our site. Owners very nice," shares Kelsey G.
What you should know
Mosquito issues: Chickahominy Reservoir can have severe insect problems. "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!" warns Jose R.
Water pressure concerns: Be prepared for strong water flow. At Quail Ridge RV park, "The water pressure is about 100PSI, so use your regulator unless you want to risk popping your plumbing at some place or another," advises Mike E.
Limited services: Many RV sites near Burns, Oregon have minimal facilities. Riley Store Campground provides "nothing more than a place to overnight that has electricity and water only. It is a store that has added 12 RV spots to their property. It is not really even a pretty location, but if you are tired and want power to your RV for the night, it is a good stop."
Tips for camping with families
Onsite activities: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. At Burns RV Park, "They have lots of camping games available to play and there's 3 dog areas," notes Joey and Lauren T.
Hot springs access: Crane Hot Springs has family-appropriate soaking options. "The highlight is the large natural hot spring pool. It is very hot and so relaxing. They let you use it all night long, but clothing is required." While staying, Risen F. noted there was "construction on new walking trails and ponds, which were fun to explore."
Limited entertainment options: Bring your own activities. Harney County Fairgrounds lacks structured entertainment but offers space: "There are huge areas to walk or run your dog. We had stayed in the area before, and the fairgrounds are a bit cheaper than the other campgrounds in the area, but you don't get a picnic table or other amenities other than the bathhouse."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose wisely at Bosch's Big Bear RV Park. "There are 10 gravel sites with full hook ups. Sites 1-4 have 30 & 50 amp. The other sites have 30 amp only," explains Kellie. The park's layout requires strategy: "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."
Levelness issues: Prepare for uneven surfaces. At Burns RV Park, "Our site was unlevel so we needed our levelers," reports Kelsey G., while at Harney County Fairgrounds: "Sites, despite an apparently fresh dump/spread of gravel, were not as level as site managers seemed to think."
Sewer connections: Check placement before setting up. At Harney County Fairgrounds, MickandKarla W. chose "site 18 as it had the lowest sewer connection, as most were 4 to 6 inches or more above the ground."
