Cabin accommodations near Hines, Oregon range from rustic forest service shelters to more modern rentals with private hot springs access. Located in Oregon's high desert at an elevation of around 4,100 feet, the Hines area experiences dramatic temperature shifts throughout the year, with summer highs often exceeding 90°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Many cabin rentals in this region serve as base camps for exploring the nearby Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, which attracts birders during spring migration seasons.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Malheur Refuge: The cabin properties near Hines provide convenient access to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. "If you're a birder, this area is fantastic in the spring when migration happens. We stayed at Crane Hot Springs as our home base for exploring the refuge," notes one visitor who appreciated the location's proximity to wildlife viewing opportunities.
Soak in natural hot springs: The mineral-rich waters at Crane Hot Springs offer therapeutic soaking opportunities throughout your stay. "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," reports one camper who visited the springs multiple times.
Explore Steens Mountain: The dramatic landscape of Steens Mountain offers scenic driving and hiking opportunities about an hour from Hines. "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," shares a visitor who used Burns RV Park as their base for regional exploration.
What campers like
Private cabin amenities: Cabin rentals at The Narrows RV Park include patios with picnic tables and fire rings. "Each site has a nice patio with a plastic picnic table, fire ring, and bbq platform. There are some trees scattered throughout," notes a visitor who appreciated the thoughtful setup of the property.
On-site dining options: Several cabin properties feature food service, eliminating the need to cook every meal. "The Jackalope bar and grill has excellent food. One of the best breakfasts we had on our trip," shares a reviewer who enjoyed meals at The Narrows RV Park during their cabin stay.
24-hour hot spring access: Overnight guests at certain properties receive unlimited hot spring access. "Staying the night allows you to access the hot springs at anytime which is nice during cooler nights where you can soak and stare at the stars," reports a camper who enjoyed late-night soaking during their stay at Crane Hot Springs.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Cabin accommodations near Hines fill quickly during peak seasons, especially those with special features. "It gets busy so make sure to check reservations," advises a visitor to Crane Hot Springs, highlighting the importance of advance planning.
Amenity variations: Cabin rentals in this area vary significantly in their furnishings and facilities. "The building is quaint with gaslights, and gas fireplace. The fold out bed is old and worn out. I recommend putting an air mattress or at least sleeping pads on it," notes a guest at Murderers Creek Guard Station, describing the more rustic accommodations.
Water availability: Some forest service cabins lack running water. "There's a big refrigerator and gas stove in the kitchen, along with some pots and pans for cooking. But NO running water for drinking or cooking, so bring plenty of water," warns a visitor to Murderers Creek Guard Station about this critical limitation.
Tips for camping with families
Bring games and activities: The remote location means entertainment options are limited. "There is a small community kitchen with stove, refrigerator, etc. Our second time stopping here on the way to/from Steens Mtn, 45 minutes away," notes a family who found Crystal Crane Hot Springs offered enough amenities to keep everyone comfortable.
Consider cabin alternatives: Some properties offer unique accommodations beyond standard cabins. "This developed campground offers dry camping, RV rentals, TeePees with private tubs and patios, bunk cabins, and an Inn," explains a visitor who found multiple options for their family group at Crane Hot Springs.
Pack all essential supplies: Shopping options are extremely limited near most cabin rentals. "Clean, well maintained, cooking supplies provided, heated house with fridge. Outhouse was clean. Recommended bring you own light, the lanterns did not provide a lot of light and your own blanket for the beds," advises a visitor to Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin.
Tips from RVers
Check amperage requirements: RV sites with cabins often have specific electrical capabilities. "Most sites are 30 amp. The ones with 50 amp were not marked at all and there was no information in the welcome email indicating what site we needed to look for," warns a traveler at The Narrows RV Park who had difficulty finding appropriate hookups.
Prepare for temperature extremes: The high desert climate creates challenging conditions for cabin and RV campers alike. "We visited during Oregon's high season, so by the time we booked, only back in spots were available for our big rig. Okay stay, just not impressed with amenities for price and that park has sappy trees over spaces," notes an RVer who found summer conditions at Burns RV Park created unexpected challenges.
Consider cabin stays during maintenance issues: Some RV travelers opt for cabin rentals when equipment problems arise. "Generator quit working so we couldn't boondock. Way too hot outside. Checked in on a day they were closed," explains an RVer who found cabin accommodations at The Narrows RV Park provided a necessary alternative during mechanical difficulties.
