Camping near Frenchglen, Oregon spans elevations from 4,000 to over 9,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations throughout the year. The high desert terrain combines sagebrush flats with dramatic mountain landscapes, and many campsites offer limited or no shade. Water conservation is essential as most dispersed sites have no water sources, and extreme weather shifts can occur with little warning.
What to do
Wildlife photography at sunrise/sunset: Page Springs Campground provides excellent bird watching opportunities along the Blitzen River. "We fell asleep to two owls hooting back and forth in the nearby trees," reports one camper at Page Springs Campground. Morning walks near water sources often yield deer sightings.
Explore canyons on foot: Trails behind campsites offer access to remarkable geological features. At South Steens Campground, campers recommend the Big Indian Gorge hike. "We spent 2 nights at the campground and did the Big Indian Gorge hike to the headwall (it was awesome!)" notes one visitor who found the experience worth the effort.
Speed across the desert playa: When conditions permit, the Alvord Desert offers a unique driving experience. "When the weather is dry, you can camp on the Alvord Desert... This flat, stretching desert far from any city provides unparalleled star-gazing," notes a visitor who emphasizes checking weather forecasts closely.
What campers like
Temperature contrast for sleeping: Summer days can reach 90°F while nights drop to 40°F, creating perfect sleeping conditions. At Fish Lake Campground, visitors note the elevation's effect on comfort. "Still snow in spots at this time. No bugs, but blowing 20-30 at times," reported one camper who visited in mid-June.
Night sky clarity: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities across all campgrounds. At Alvord Desert, one camper noted the dramatic experience: "I've never seen stars so clear. Fall is the best time to visit, but anytime is good if you ask me."
Remote solitude: Most campgrounds remain uncrowded even on weekends. "Went in Mid June and there were maybe 3-4 campers in the whole park. A total of 18-20 sites," reports one camper at Fish Lake Campground, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere available even during peak season.
What you should know
Campground opening dates vary significantly: Most high-elevation sites open late due to snow. "The loop does not open until roughly first week of July and depends on the work required on the road when the snow melts," reports a visitor to Fish Lake Campground.
Road conditions change seasonally: Gravel roads may become impassable after rain. One visitor to Mann Lake Recreation Site notes they "stayed at Mann Lake as an alternative to camping on the Alvord Desert. We initially were sleeping on the desert until it started raining hard in the middle of the night and we evacuated to avoid getting stuck."
Extreme wind exposure: Open terrain offers little wind protection. "Choose tent wisely. A late night sandstorm came through and ripped our rainfly and tent was covered in sand. Had to sleep in car," warns an Alvord Desert visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Mark your position when exploring: The flat desert landscape can disorient even experienced hikers. A visitor to Alvord Desert advises: "Tag or mark your spot with gps if planning time leave playa to come back. The desert plays tricks on your eyes."
Plan activities for temperature extremes: Morning hikes and evening stargazing work best. A Crane Hot Springs visitor appreciates that "The hot springs are open 24/7 which is nice. There is a nice changing room/restroom," providing comfort after cold desert nights.
Bring multiple sleeping layers: Prepare for significant temperature drops at night. "Camped late Early October nights dipped into 20s, pretty crisp for tent camping, but days were in 60s," notes a visitor to Page Springs Campground.
Tips from RVers
Level sites with minimal privacy: Most RV spots lack visual barriers between sites. At Steens Mountain Wilderness Resort, "All sites are pull thru....some are not totally level and/or rocky. Campground is generally a little dusty."
Hookup availability limited: Full-service sites concentrate around private campgrounds. "All RV sites are basically the same-FHU and pull through," notes a Crane Hot Springs visitor, making it one of the few locations with reliable services.
Orient trailers correctly for wind protection: Position your RV strategically against prevailing winds. A visitor to Alvord Hot Springs recommends "orient the trailer front towards the mountains. It seriously helped a lot" when dealing with winds that reached 60 mph.
