Summer Lake Hot Springs and the surrounding area provides multiple cabin and yurt camping options near Silver Lake, Oregon. The region sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation in the high desert of central Oregon, characterized by dramatic temperature fluctuations and minimal rainfall. Campers can experience winter temperatures below freezing while summers reach the 90s with cool nights.
What to do
Hot springs soaking: At Summer Lake Hot Springs, visitors access multiple mineral pools. "The hot springs are very relaxing. Nice and quiet," notes Kerrie G., who stayed in a sprinter van at the property.
Stargazing: The area offers exceptional dark sky viewing opportunities. "Beautiful area, lovely hot springs. Wonderful dark sky," reports Talisha C., who appreciated the peaceful setting at Summer Lake Hot Springs.
Hiking nearby: The East Lake Resort provides access to volcanic landscapes. "We went to the big Obsidion Flow down the road it was cool to go hike on it, Lava that looks like black glass," shares camper B M.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds provide opportunities to observe local animals. "We had deer out back, pikas & pretty yellow birds with redheads," reports a visitor who stayed at East Lake Resort.
What campers like
Relaxation amenities: The mineral pools at Summer Lake Hot Springs receive consistent praise. "Clean campground with amazing views from the bathhouse. Full hookups on level pads and cabins if you left your rv at home," notes William J., who recommends bringing "a warm, fluffy robe and good sandals for your walk to and from the soaking pools."
Natural setting: Christmas Valley Base Camp provides a convenient base for exploring the area. Ralph G. describes it as a "Cozy place great for large groups. Has every thing a campground needs."
Rustic charm: Many visitors appreciate the authentic experience at Summer Lake Hot Springs. "In other places I've seen this place reviewed as dingy... If you're not into the perfectly imperfect it ain't for you, then again very little in the Oregon Outback will be," explains Marc H., adding that "the cabins are clean and well kitted, the spring pools are absolutely pleasant, and the scenery outstanding."
Water activities: Fishing opportunities abound at several locations. "Caught some Kokanee had someone in the campground with a smoker he gave us a smoked Kokanee," shares a visitor at East Lake Resort.
What you should know
Weather variability: The high desert climate brings unpredictable conditions. "It can get very windy here. A totally calm day is rare," cautions Elsa S. about Summer Lake Hot Springs.
Water limitations: Bring your own drinking water to some properties. "The water is hard enough to stand on therefore bring your own (you don't want coffee made with the water, but I wouldn't turn it down if I were farther from civilization)," advises Elsa S.
Limited services: Paulina Lake Lodge Cabins offers accommodations but services can be seasonal. "I discovered this lodge and its cabins when exploring Paulina Lake. It's right on Paulina Lake with beautiful views, tons of fishing, and hiking/snowmobiling," reports Danielle C., who found it closed during her visit.
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping near Silver Lake, Oregon isn't extensively documented in reviews, Paulina Lake Lodge Cabins lists yurts among its accommodation types for those seeking this alternative shelter style.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly spaces: Cascade Meadows RV Resort provides open areas for recreation. "It has nice open spaces. Our kids had plenty of room to play outdoor games," shares Jeff P.
Swimming options: Several properties offer swimming opportunities beyond hot springs. "Swimming pool was just the right temperature," notes Jeff P. about Cascade Meadows RV Resort.
Rustic cabin camping: East Lake Resort provides family-oriented accommodations. "With a general store, boat launch, beach and restaurant, this quaint little 'resort' is a small collection of 1960s cabins along a simple gravel parking lot/road and most either on or with a view of the lake," describes Corinna B., adding it's ideal "if you want to swim, fish, boat and hang out with family and let the kiddos run all over and get sunburned and tired."
Pack essentials: Remote location means limited shopping options. "Bring food and water, as there are limited (and expensive) groceries in nearby Paisley," advises Elsa S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Summer Lake Hot Springs, RVers can choose designated spots. "Open camping for all types of travelers... Cabins for those so inclined and hook up for trailers. It has it all," explains Mama J.
Dump station access: Some properties offer waste disposal. "Showers onsite, dump for a fee. Great off-leash area for my dog," notes Talisha C. about Summer Lake Hot Springs.
Hookup availability: Cascade Meadows RV Resort provides full services. "The RV spots are large and entry and set up were easy," shares Gk D., who found it ideal for overnight stays.
