The high desert region surrounding Diamond, Oregon sits at approximately 4,200 feet elevation with dramatic temperature fluctuations between seasons. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F while winter lows can drop below 0°F. The area offers several luxury glamping options with access to natural hot springs, providing comfortable accommodations in this remote region where cell service remains limited and weather conditions can change rapidly.
What to do
Hot springs soaking opportunities: At Crane Hot Springs, visitors can enjoy 24-hour access to natural thermal waters. "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.
Desert playa exploration: The Alvord Desert playa offers unique driving and stargazing opportunities near Alvord Hot Springs. "The clear, dark skies make these glamping sites exceptional for stargazing, particularly during meteor showers," with one visitor noting you can experience "speeding at 120+ mph on the desert playa, and the majestic Steens Mountain peak towering above you."
Horse riding excursions: Equestrian campers can access extensive trail networks from designated areas. "We go up to the South Steens Campground each year and stay in the Equestrian side of the campground. Normally we spend 7-10 days there and ride the gorges and down to the Riddle Brothers Ranch," explains Jacob F.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife populations. "We especially enjoyed seeing herds of wild horses, the fall foliage on the quaking aspen, and the hiking trails," reports Tanya B. about her October visit to South Steens.
What campers like
Private soaking options: South Steens Campground provides access to multiple hiking trails and scenic vistas. "Basic campsites, but some are very private. Either sides of camp offer amazing longer hikes to gorges coming off the steens mountain range," writes Ash C.
Consistent hot water temperatures: Natural hot springs maintain reliable temperatures year-round. "The hot springs are nice and hot. Beautiful place," notes Brittany P., adding that late check-ins are accommodated with an honor system.
Dark sky viewing: The remote location creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "I've never seen stars like that it was really nice," reports Will B. about South Steens. Another visitor at Crane Hot Springs mentioned, "You can soak in stargaze. Staff is super friendly very accommodating."
Community amenities: Some glamping sites near Diamond offer unexpected social spaces. "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," explains Michelle G.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: High desert conditions bring extreme temperature swings and sudden weather changes. "Just a little piece of advice is to always have you rain coat with you when you go riding in the Steens, the weather can change fast!" cautions Jacob F.
Wind considerations: Strong winds can impact camping comfort in this region. "Be aware of the wind! Our first night in our teardrop was pretty rocky. Almost lost our awning because the gusts were at or above 60mph," warns Nicholas N. at Alvord Hot Springs.
Seasonal restrictions: Fire bans often apply during summer months. "It is August and they are not allowing campfires," notes Will B. about South Steens Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to remote sites may require preparation. "The road from Fields is gravel, so be aware," advises Shay F. about routes to Alvord Hot Springs.
Varying amenities: Facilities differ significantly between sites. "It has the basic needs for most camper trailers. There are a few sites there with shore power but I didn't see any water hook ups," reports Nicholas N.
Tips for camping with families
Hot springs etiquette: Burns RV Park offers family-friendly accommodations with access to nearby hot springs. "It's by the main road, but you're also pretty much right out of town. Road quiets down to nothing at night," notes Jill R.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning hours offer the best wildlife sightings. "Love all the quail, squirrels and listening to coyotes at night," adds Jill R.
Activity planning: The region offers diverse experiences for children. "The owners were very friendly and helpful. 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 and there's 3 dog areas," explains Joey and Lauren T.
Tent site selection: Choose protected locations for tent camping. "If you tent camp, I would recommend some sort of windscreen or just use your vehicle to block it somehow," advises Nicholas N.
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: Bosch's Big Bear RV Park offers strategic setup options for RVs. "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 and we would have hit the nice shade tree they have planted between sites," explains MickandKarla W.
Hookup availability: Full hookups may be limited at certain sites. "Sites 1-4 have 30 & 50 amp. The other sites have 30 amp only," notes Kellie.
Weather preparations: High elevation brings significant temperature fluctuations. "They are open year round but water is turned off November to March," mentions MickandKarla W.
Road access considerations: RV routes require planning. "Easy off and on US Route 20. Easy to maneuver on the property, into and out of the sites," reports Cande D.
