Crane Hot Springs sits approximately 20 miles southeast of Hines, Oregon at an elevation of 4,147 feet in the high desert landscape. The area experiences cold winters with average temperatures below freezing and hot, dry summers where daytime highs can reach the 90s. Camping and glamping options near Hines offer access to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge wetlands and expansive views of Steens Mountain, with most facilities providing windbreaks against the persistent high desert breezes.
What to do
Wildlife watching at Chickahominy Reservoir: Located about 30 miles west of Hines, this BLM campground provides access to excellent bird watching opportunities, particularly during migration seasons. "360 degree vistas. Quiet. It is likely much busier when there is water, assuming that happens," notes camper Sarah J. The reservoir attracts numerous waterfowl species when filled.
Hot springs soaking at night: Crane Hot Springs offers 24-hour access to their large natural hot spring for overnight guests. "You can soak in stargaze. Staff is super friendly very accommodating," mentions Hayden G. The springs maintain temperatures around 100-104°F year-round, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Fishing at local reservoirs: The nearby reservoirs provide fishing opportunities when water levels permit. A camper at Chickahominy noted meeting "a local fisherman" who provided advice about conditions. The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife stocks some local waters with trout in spring months when water levels allow.
What campers like
Convenient location: Burns RV Park serves as a practical base for exploring the Malheur Wildlife Refuge. "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," shares Kristine S. The park is approximately 30 miles from the refuge headquarters.
Quiet evenings: The remote nature of camping near Hines means minimal light pollution for stargazing. "Stars are amazing here," notes Jennifer about Chickahominy Reservoir Campground. Most campers report peaceful nights with only occasional highway noise at sites closer to main roads.
Basic amenities: For those seeking simplicity, the campgrounds provide essential services without excess. "No frills but perfect for what I needed," writes Brian A. about Chickahominy. "Barebones site but the pit toilets were clean and I pretty much had the place to myself."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be intense near water sources, particularly in summer months. "We were warned that mosquitoes would be a problem here at night by a local fisherman and boy they were not wrong!" reports Jose R. about Chickahominy. Bringing insect repellent and screens is highly recommended.
Weather variability: The high desert climate brings significant temperature swings between day and night. "Can be very windy," notes Michael J. about camping at Chickahominy. Summer afternoon winds are common throughout the region, so secure tent stakes and awnings properly.
Limited services: Most camping areas have minimal facilities. At Bosch's Big Bear RV Park, "There is no playground, laundry nor showers, but they do have a porta-potty and a small tent area," explains MickandKarla W. Cell service can be spotty outside town limits, though some campgrounds offer WiFi.
Tips for camping with families
Shared kitchen access: Some glamping facilities near Hines provide community kitchen spaces. At Crane Hot Springs, "There is also a full camp kitchen which includes all the required cooking utensils, stove, and table," according to Ashley B. This amenity allows families to prepare meals without bringing all cooking equipment.
Entertainment options: Bring games and activities for children since most campgrounds have limited dedicated play areas. "There is also a lounge area with couches, a TV, a few tables, as well as board games, and plenty of 'To-DO' suggestions for the near by area," Ashley B. notes about Crane Hot Springs.
Hard ground preparation: The desert terrain can make tent setup challenging. "The ground is hard which made putting the stakes in the ground difficult," warns Kayla T. about Chickahominy Reservoir. Bringing heavy-duty tent stakes or rock hammers can help families secure tents properly.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Several RV sites require additional leveling equipment. At Burns RV Park, "Our site was unlevel so we needed our levelers," reports Rachel H. Checking site details in advance can help prepare for specific conditions.
Seasonal water access: Winter camping requires additional planning as some facilities restrict water access. At Big Bear RV Park, "They are open year round but water is turned off November to March," notes MickandKarla W. RVers should arrive with full freshwater tanks during colder months.
Site selection strategy: For larger rigs at Bosch's Big Bear RV Park, "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," advises MickandKarla W.
