Plush, Oregon sits at an elevation of 4,500 feet in Lake County's high desert, approximately 18 miles east of the Warner Mountains. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F during daylight hours while dropping below 50°F at night, creating significant temperature swings that campers should prepare for. Cell service throughout the region is extremely limited, with several camping areas having no connectivity whatsoever.
What to do
Sunstone hunting: 25 miles northwest of Plush. The Oregon Sunstone Public Collection Area provides free access to Oregon's state gemstone. "Sunstones galore. Easy to pick up right at your camp site. Not far from some of the best sunstone mines in the world," reports one visitor. The collection area includes basic camping with covered picnic tables and fire pits.
Hot springs soaking: 58 miles north. At Summer Lake Hot Springs, campers can access natural hot mineral pools. "The hot springs are well cared for and kept up. Dressing rooms and showers provided," writes one camper. The springs feature indoor pools inside a historic barn structure and outdoor soaking areas with mountain views.
Wildlife watching: Dark skies and open terrain. The region surrounding Plush provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. "We saw two deer and a ton of quail," notes a visitor to Goose Lake State Recreation Area. Many camping areas near Plush sit in the path of migratory birds, particularly during spring and fall migrations.
What campers like
Quiet isolation: Few crowds even during peak season. The remote nature of camping near Plush means significantly fewer people than more accessible camping areas. "We had the place to ourselves till our friends showed up for the weekend," reports a visitor to Mud Creek Campground, a free Forest Service site with large, private camping spots.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution. The Plush area offers exceptional stargazing conditions. "Night sky as dark as the mummies tomb and quiet," writes one visitor to the Sunstone Collection Area. Another camper at Lake Abert notes, "dark at night to enjoy the dark skies and stargazing!"
Scenic diversity: Desert to forest transitions. While much of the region features high desert terrain, areas to the west include pine forests. "Beautiful area, lovely hot springs. Great off-leash area for my dog. Wonderful dark sky," reports a Summer Lake Hot Springs visitor, highlighting the variety of landscapes accessible within an hour's drive of Plush.
What you should know
Access challenges: Remote locations require planning. Many camping areas near Plush require travel on unpaved roads. "There is about 30 miles of dirt road to reach the site. Well maintained but some washboard," notes a visitor to the Sunstone Collection Area. Four-wheel drive isn't always necessary but high-clearance vehicles are recommended.
Limited services: No nearby supplies. The town of Plush has extremely limited services, with no major grocery stores. Most campers must bring all supplies. "Bring food and water, as there are limited (and expensive) groceries in nearby Paisley," advises a camper at Lake Abert US 395 South Pullout, a free dispersed camping area.
Seasonal considerations: Weather extremes. Summer brings intense heat and potential for afternoon thunderstorms. Winter access becomes difficult or impossible for many sites. Spring can bring swarms of insects, particularly mosquitoes. "It's a nice spot for a night but plan to stay inside the entire time... If you dare to go outside you'll be eaten alive spray or not," warns one Mud Creek Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Bring indoor activities: Weather protection. Given the extreme temperature fluctuations and exposure to elements, families should prepare alternative activities. "The open camping area could use a few more designated tent spots with tables," notes a Summer Lake Hot Springs visitor, highlighting the need for shade structures in many locations.
Water management: No sources at many sites. Nearly all camping areas near Plush require bringing your own water supply. One visitor to Junipers Reservoir RV Resort advises, "You drive down a gravel road right through a 6,000 acre working cattle ranch. There are 40 pull through RV sites with electric, water, and some sites have sewer."
Educational opportunities: Geology focus. The region offers excellent opportunities for teaching children about geology, ecology and astronomy. "Out in the northwest corner of the area is the best gathering, bring something to sieve with and plop yourself down and just pick them up," shares a visitor to the Sunstone Collection Area regarding gem hunting with children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare equipment. Many rv parks near Plush, Oregon and surrounding areas have uneven sites. "All pull-thru level sites," notes one visitor to Junipers Reservoir RV Resort, which is unusual for the region as most require significant leveling.
Road clearance considerations: Check overhead. Tree branches can pose problems for larger RVs at forested sites. "I'm towing a 30 foot TT and my roof was touching the tree branches on the way in. I would not recommend a 5th wheel or anything longer," cautions a Mud Creek Campground visitor who later discovered roof damage from low-hanging branches.
Winter challenges: Limited year-round options. Many rv parks near Plush close seasonally, with Wild Goose Meadows RV Park in Lakeview (about 30 miles south) being one of few open year-round. "After a long day of driving in various weather conditions, we found this gem of a spot. Called ahead and the host had everything waiting for us in the afternoon-hours check-in spot," reports a winter visitor.
