Crane Hot Springs - Soaking Oasis in Eastern Oregon Desert

The dry landscape of Eastern Oregon may seem empty at first glance, but Crane Hot Springs, previously known as Crystal Crane Hot Springs, quickly changes that impression.

Located about 25 miles southeast of Burns, just off Highway 78, this desert oasis offers access to mineral-rich geothermal waters for relaxing soaks, with views of the wide-open sagebrush landscape and expansive Eastern Oregon sky.

The views around the hot springs are beautiful and worth the visit on their own. At night, the experience becomes even more special. With very little light pollution, the sky fills with bright stars and moonlight. Soft lights in the soaking pond create a gentle glow, making the evening soak calm and relaxing.

Guests also have access to private cedar bathhouses with individual soaking tubs. The temperature of the mineral water can be adjusted, while the natural scent of cedar wood enhances the overall relaxation experience.

The main soaking pond is approximately 80 feet in diameter and about 7 feet deep at its center. It is fed by two artesian wells, with water temperatures reaching up to around 180°F (82°C), and is blended with cooler groundwater before entering the pool.

Depending on weather conditions, the soaking temperature typically ranges between 97°F (36°C) and 103°F (39°C), feeling cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Gentle massage showers are available in the soaking area for use between baths, offering relief for tired shoulders and back muscles.

Overnight guests enjoy unlimited access to the hot springs pond, as well as shared communal spaces and a camp kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, stove, and microwave. Complimentary morning coffee is also provided.

🔵 No alcohol or glass containers are allowed in or around the hot springs and no pets in the hot springs.

Crane Hot Springs has been known since the early 1900s, when settlers used the naturally heated water to wash clothes.

In the 1920s, a local physician recognized the mineral waters' therapeutic qualities and constructed a large soaking pool.

At the time, however, there was no cold-water source, so cooling the extremely hot geothermal water often took hours or even days. Guests would wait nearby, sometimes spending time in a dance hall and restaurant.

In the 1930s, the original structures were destroyed by fire, and the site underwent several rebuilding attempts. Much of what exists today was developed later under the ownership of the Kryger family.

Crystal Crane Hot Springs has several places to stay in the Eastern Oregon desert. Guests can choose cabins, an inn, teepees, RV spots, or tent camping under the open sky.

Some of the lodging has been updated or improved in recent years, giving guests a few newer and more comfortable options while still keeping the rustic feel.

Since the hot springs offer affordable day-use options, you can also stay in the Hines and Burns area, about 25 miles away.

Lodging in Hines-Burns Area

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Hines-Burns Area

Open: Year-round
Development: Rustic resort, large soaking pond, private soaking tubs

Facilities & Services: Restrooms, showers, high-speed internet access, and kitchen facilities
Clothing: Required in the public area

Distance from the parking: Short
Road Access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes

Elevation: 4,130 ft (1,259 m)

Crane Hot Springs is located:

25 miles southeast of Burns
158 miles east of Bend
309 miles southeast of Portland.

Water T° (pond): 97°-103°F (36°-39°C)
Water T° (2 sources): 180°F (82°C) and 120°F (49°C)
Water acidity level: Alkaline (pH=8.2-8.45)
Type of the springs: Sodium and calcium chloride sulfate
Chemical used: None

Average dissolved solids: 427 Mg/L
Sodium - 184 Mg/L
Sulfate - 87 Mg/L
Chloride - 83 Mg/L
Silica - 47 Mg/L
Potassium - 11 Mg/L
Fluoride - 9.8 Mg/L
Calcium - 4.7 Mg/L