Last Updated on August 7, 2024

Did you know there is a desert in Oregon? The Alvord Desert is a hidden gem in the southeastern corner of Oregon.

This remote, expansive desert offers stunning natural beauty and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

So buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a journey to one of the most breathtaking and underrated natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest.

Alvord Desert, Oregon
Alvord Desert is one of the quietest and most remote places in Oregon.

What is the Alvord Desert?

Located in Harney County, Oregon, the Alvord Desert is a remote, 12 by 7 mile dry lake bed surrounded by towering mountains.

At an elevation of 4,000 feet, it is one of the largest playa (dry lake) in Oregon.

The desert is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including pronghorn antelope, coyotes, and burrowing owls.

The terrain is predominantly flat, but dotted with hot springs and geothermal features.

The closest town to the Alvord Desert is Fields, which is around 10 miles away.

THE ALVORD DESERT | Oregon Documentary | The Emptiest Place in Oregon Explored

Getting there

The Alvord Desert is quite remote and requires a bit of effort to get to, but the journey is well worth it.

The easiest way to get to the Alvord Desert is by car. From Portland, you’ll drive approximately 340 miles southeast on US-395 to reach the town of Fields.

The last 10 miles of the journey is a dirt road that can be a bit rough in places, so it’s recommended that you drive a high-clearance vehicle.

Alternatively, you can fly into the nearby Burns Municipal Airport and rent a car to make the drive to the desert.

Exploring the Alvord Desert

One of the best things about the Alvord Desert is the opportunity for exploration.

The flat terrain makes it an ideal location for hiking and biking, and there are several trails that wind through the desert. The Steens Mountain Wilderness Area is nearby and offers even more hiking options.

There are also opportunities for birdwatching, stargazing, and photography. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense in the desert.

Camping

Camping in the Alvord Desert is a unique and unforgettable experience.

With stunning landscapes, natural hot springs, and endless opportunities for exploration, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

So pack up your camping gear and head out to the high desert for a one-of-a-kind adventure.

There are several options for camping in the desert, including established campgrounds and primitive camping.

Alvord Hot Springs is a popular spot for camping and soaking in the hot springs. There are also a few established campgrounds in the area, such as Fields Station and Page Springs.

If you’re looking for a more secluded camping experience, there are many areas in the desert where you can camp for free.

Nearby Attractions

While the Alvord Desert is the main attraction in the area, there are several other nearby attractions worth visiting.

The Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is just a short drive away and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including sandhill cranes and pronghorn antelope.

The Steens Mountain Wilderness Area offers stunning mountain views and is a popular destination for hiking and camping. The Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area is another nearby attraction, featuring a unique volcanic landscape.

Alvord Hot Springs: A Place to Unwind

Simply put, few places anywhere provide a setting that is as relaxing as Alvord Hot Springs.

Located at the eastern base of Steens Mountain and on the western edge of the Alvord Desert, the hot soaking pools, rustic structure, and wooden deck invite all visitors to rest and enjoy the expansive views and crisp desert air.

In this isolated region of the U.S., time seems to stand still, and many hours can pass before you’ll be ready to get out of the pools and dry off.

The geothermal spring that’s used to create Alvord Hot Springs actually surfaces at about 184 degrees, but due to some clever engineering, the water seems to be at just the right temperature by the time it reaches the concrete-enclosed pools.

Both pools seasonally fluctuate between 100-110 degrees and are free of the sulfur smell that is common in many natural hot springs.

The Alvord Hot Springs and the Alvord Desert Playa

Facilities

Alvord Hot Springs has a few basic facilities that include two hot pools and a changing area. There are no showers or toilets available on-site, so visitors must bring their own towels and toiletries.

The hot pools are surrounded by rocks, and the area is kept clean and well-maintained. Visitors must take their trash with them and leave the area clean after use.

Water Temperature and Quality

The water temperature of the hot pools is around 170°F, but visitors can cool the water by adding cold water from the nearby creek.

The water quality is excellent, and the pools are fed by natural mineral water that is said to have therapeutic properties.

The water contains high levels of silica and sulfur, which are believed to have healing effects on the skin.

Things to Consider

Before visiting Alvord Hot Springs, it is essential to keep the following things in mind:

  • The hot springs are located in a remote area, so visitors must bring their own food, water, and other essentials.
  • The hot springs are open year-round, but access can be challenging during winter months due to snow and ice.
  • The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including snakes and coyotes, so visitors must be careful and stay alert.
  • Alcohol, drugs, and smoking are strictly prohibited on-site.
  • Visitors must be respectful of the environment and other visitors and avoid making excessive noise or causing any damage.

Gettig there

Alvord Hot Springs is located in southeastern Oregon, close to the towns of Fields and Frenchglen.

To get there, head south from Burns, Oregon on State Highway 205 for approximately 60 miles until you reach Fields. Turn right onto Fields-Denio Road and continue west for approximately 14 miles.

Turn right onto the Alvord Ranch Road and follow it for another 9 miles until you reach the hot springs. The nearest major cities to Alvord Hot Springs are Bend, Oregon and Boise, Idaho, both of which are approximately a 4-hour drive away.


Read also: Discover Florence, Oregon’s Sandboarding Capital


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