The Hines area sits at an elevation of approximately 4,200 feet in Oregon's high desert region. RV parks near Hines experience temperature fluctuations typical of this arid climate, with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Most camping areas remain accessible year-round, though winter travelers should check road conditions when visiting more remote sites.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Malheur Refuge: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to this birding destination. "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," notes a visitor at Burns RV Park.
Hot springs soaking: Relax in 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," reports a guest at Crane Hot Springs.
Fishing at Chickahominy Reservoir: Cast for rainbow trout when water levels permit. "This campground is right by a reservoir but not much mosquitos. The ground is hard which made putting the stakes in the ground difficult. Vault toilets but clean. Beautiful sunset," mentions a camper at Chickahominy.
Explore historic sites: Visit local landmarks like the Round Barn. "The town has all the amenities one may need," notes a visitor at Bosch's Big Bear RV Park, making it a good base for regional exploration.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many rv parks in Hines, Oregon feature well-designed layouts. "Sites, despite an apparently fresh dump/spread of gravel, were not as level as site managers seemed to think. Back of the back in space sloped just enough to cause issues," shares one candid reviewer about Burns RV Park.
Night sky viewing: The high desert offers exceptional stargazing. "Stars are amazing here," reports a visitor to Chickahominy Reservoir Campground, where minimal light pollution creates optimal viewing conditions.
Pet-friendly facilities: "They even gave our dog treats!" notes a visitor at The Narrows RV Park, which welcomes four-legged companions about 20 miles south of Hines.
Local cuisine: "The Jackalope bar and grill has excellent food. One of the best breakfasts we had on our trip," mentions a reviewer at The Narrows RV Park, highlighting dining options beyond camp cooking.
What you should know
Limited shade options: Most camping areas near Hines have minimal tree cover. "Baby trees will provide shade one day. Property is on a hill. View of the valley, and there's a nice breeze when the wind blows," explains a camper at Bosch's Big Bear RV Park.
Weather preparedness: The high desert experiences significant temperature variations. "It will be a couple more years and some pruning before they can provide a reasonable amount of shade," notes another visitor to Bosch's Big Bear RV Park regarding the young trees.
Water conservation: Some facilities limit water usage during summer months. "They let you wash your windshield, but you could only use water in a bucket - no spraying with a hose," explains a camper at Burns RV Park.
Seasonal mosquito activity: "This place is really beautiful and peaceful, sites are leveled and sunsets are incredibly gorgeous. We were warned that mosquitoes would be a problem here at night by a local fisherman and boy they were not wrong!" warns a visitor to Chickahominy Reservoir Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pet exercise areas: "There are 3 dog areas," mentions a reviewer at Burns RV Park, providing space for four-legged family members to stretch.
On-site activities: "They have camp items and alcohol for sale until 6pm. There are laundry, shower & bathroom facilities, and yard games on site too for convenience and fun!" shares a visitor about Burns RV Park.
Wildlife encounters: "Love all the quail, squirrels and listening to coyotes at night," reports a camper at Burns RV Park, highlighting natural entertainment for children.
Unique accommodations: "This developed campground offers dry camping, RV rentals, TeePees with private tubs and patios, bunk cabins, and an Inn," explains a visitor to Crane Hot Springs, providing options beyond standard camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: "Our back-in site for our 30 amp travel trailer wasn't too hard to get in too," notes a camper at Burns RV Park, though many recommend arriving during daylight hours.
Leveling considerations: "Sites were unlevel so we needed our levelers," reports another RVer at Burns RV Park, suggesting bringing appropriate equipment.
Cell service reliability: "AT&T worked well enough that I was able to work from site," shares a digital nomad at Chickahominy Reservoir Campground, noting connectivity options for remote workers.
Overnight stopping points: "Nice RV spots, 9 only, overlooking the valley and just a bit off hwy 20. Newer mechanicals and pull through sites," explains a reviewer about Bosch's Big Bear RV Park, making it suitable for travelers passing through the Hines area.
