Summer Lake Hot Springs sits at an elevation of 4,300 feet in Oregon's high desert landscape, about 2 hours southeast of Bend. The glamping options near Christmas Valley, Oregon provide access to natural mineral waters in an area known for extreme temperature variations—summer days can reach 90°F while winter nights often drop below freezing. RV sites and cabins remain accessible year-round, though winter visitors need to prepare for potentially harsh conditions.
What to do
Explore natural hot springs pools: At Summer Lake Hot Springs, the indoor pool is housed in a barn-like structure that provides shelter during storms. "The pools are well cared for and kept up. Dressing rooms and showers provided," notes Mama J.
Observe wildlife and birds: The wetland areas attract numerous bird species throughout the year. "We had deer out back, pikas & pretty yellow birds with redheads," reports one visitor at East Lake Resort.
Winter recreation: When snow covers the landscape, the area transforms for snowmobiling and winter sports. Near Paulina Lake Lodge Cabins, visitors enjoy "beautiful views, tons of fishing, and hiking/snowmobiling" according to Danielle C.
What campers like
Dark sky stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "Beautiful area, lovely hot springs... Wonderful dark sky," reports Talisha C. about her experience at Summer Lake.
Rustic accommodations with comfort: The cabins at Christmas Valley Base Camp provide a balance between wilderness and comfort. "Cozy place great for large groups. Has everything a campground needs," according to Ralph G.
Off-leash pet areas: Some glamping locations near Christmas Valley allow pets to roam in designated areas. Talisha C. appreciated the "great off-leash area for my dog" at Summer Lake Hot Springs.
Water activities: Seasonal boating and fishing opportunities abound at nearby lakes. At East Lake Resort, "a boat launch is available. Nice beach to put in for kayaks, sups," notes Brian C.
What you should know
Limited services: The remote location requires bringing supplies. "Bring food and water, as there are limited (and expensive) groceries in nearby Paisley," advises Elsa S.
Water quality concerns: The mineral content in the water can be very high. "The water is hard enough to stand on therefore bring your own. You don't want coffee made with the water," notes a visitor at Summer Lake Hot Springs.
Weather preparedness: Wind can be significant and weather changes rapidly. Greg B. recommends for Paulina Lake Lodge Cabins: "Take a warm, fluffy robe and good sandals for your walk to and from the soaking pools."
Clothing optional hours: At some hot springs locations, evening hours have different policies. "Hot springs are clothing optional after 9pm," notes Elsa S.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for larger groups: For family glamping close to Christmas Valley, Oregon, look for accommodations that can house everyone. At East Lake Resort, rates "run from the low $100s for a studio up to the high $200s for a cabin that will sleep 8 or larger," according to Corinna B.
Child-friendly pools: The main pools at some locations are perfect for families with children. Ashley B. notes that at one location, "the main pool area was a large pool like area with a barn like covering. This pool was not hot at all and the amount of children splashing and playing."
General store access: Some resorts offer on-site shopping for forgotten essentials. Brian C. mentions the "cafe at the small lodge with good food and snacks plus a general store for supplies" at East Lake Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: At Summer Lake Hot Springs, RV camping is available in an open area without designated sites. "The camping area is just a large open field area where people can park/camp where they would like. This would work well if you had a large group and several RVs wanting to be next to each other," explains Ashley B.
Level pads with hookups: Some locations offer improved RV sites. "Full hookups on level pads and cabins if you left your RV at home," notes William J.
Wind protection considerations: When selecting an RV site, consider wind exposure in this high desert area. "It can get very windy here. A totally calm day is rare," warns Elsa S. about the Summer Lake area.
