Camping near Diamond, Oregon is situated in the high desert region at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations with summer highs near 90°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. The remote location means limited services, with most campgrounds operating seasonally from June through November due to winter weather conditions. Road access often involves gravel or unimproved surfaces that can become challenging after precipitation.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge: Access the refuge from The Narrows RV Park, which serves as a convenient base for birders. "We were there in mid October so probably the slow season. Very quiet place. This is a relatively isolated area but we were here for the hot springs," notes one visitor to the area.
Steens Mountain Loop: This geological wonder requires 4 hours on washboard roads but offers dramatic views. "Must see the Steens Loop - a geological wonder. Well worth the 4 hours of washboard roads," reports a visitor from Steens Mountain Wilderness Resort, which provides convenient access to the loop.
Soak in natural hot springs: Available 24 hours daily at Crane 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 a recent guest.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "We enjoyed sitting out on the picnic table at our site. Owners very nice," reports a camper at Burns RV Park, noting the clear evening skies.
What campers like
Quiet isolation: Most campgrounds report peaceful environments with minimal crowds. "We checked in on a day they were closed so the only signs of life we saw were the people who live here full time," mentioned one camper at The Narrows RV Park, highlighting the tranquil setting.
Hot springs access: Burns RV Park serves as a convenient stopover when visiting area hot springs. "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 a visitor who appreciated the location.
Level parking areas: Most RV sites feature gravel surfaces suitable for larger vehicles. "Easy pull-through, good size, level, clean, good water pressure, and electric. There are young trees between each site," reports a visitor to Bosch's Big Bear RV Park.
Mountain views: Several campgrounds offer vistas of Steens Mountain and surrounding ranges. "Park is up on a hill with a great view, close to the highway, but quiet," notes a camper who enjoyed the elevated perspective at Bosch's Big Bear RV Park.
What you should know
Limited services: Most campgrounds have restricted operating hours. "The office was closed when we were there, but according to their website, they have local beer, wine, and snacks for sale," reports a camper at Burns RV Park, highlighting the limited retail options.
Cell connectivity challenges: Signal strength varies significantly by location. "Verizon 3 bars," notes one camper at Bosch's Big Bear RV Park, though coverage decreases in more remote locations.
Seasonal variations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while nights remain cool year-round. At Mann Lake Recreation Site, one visitor noted: "The view of the mountains is incredible and it is peacefully silent with no highway or airplane noise. The view of the stars is unmatched since there is so little light pollution."
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation. "The 3 mile road coming in is washboard," notes a camper describing access to Steens Mountain Wilderness Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Pack for temperature swings: Daytime highs and nighttime lows can differ by 40°F or more. "The site was well maintained and can get very cold at night in late May and October, below freezing," warns a visitor to Fish Lake Campground.
Bring entertainment: Limited connectivity means traditional entertainment options are scarce. "Dog and kid friendly, but there is really not much for either to do here," notes one camper about Burns RV Park.
Choose accommodations strategically: Several parks offer cabins for families not equipped for tent camping. "There are sites with and without electricity as well as bunkers if you don't want to camp," explains a visitor to Alvord Hot Springs, describing alternative lodging options.
Plan for isolation: Nearest medical facilities and major stores may be hours away. "To say there are not many choices to camp around here would be an understatement," notes a visitor to The Narrows RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Water management: Water connections are seasonal at many locations. "They are open year round but water is turned off November to March," notes a visitor to Bosch's Big Bear RV Park.
Dump station availability: Plan emptying tanks strategically due to limited facilities. "Depending on how busy the FHU area might be, you could be parked very close to each other," notes a visitor to Harney County Fairgrounds, describing the full hookup area.
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds cannot accommodate larger motorhomes. "Pull through spots for RV/trailers, green grass for tents, and cabins," notes a visitor to Steens Mountain Wilderness Resort about the varied accommodation options.
Weather preparedness: Wind can be severe in open areas. "Our first night in our teardrop was pretty rocky. Almost lost our awning because the gusts were at or above 60mph," reports a camper from Alvord Hot Springs.
