I’ve always been fascinated by the hidden corners of the world, and Eastern Oregon holds a special place in my heart for its secluded and serene neighborhoods. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, these small communities offer a glimpse into a quieter, more peaceful way of living.
Whether it’s nestled among dense forests, perched beside tranquil rivers, or tucked away in rugged canyons, each locale has its own unique charm waiting to be discovered.
If you’re yearning for solitude or simply a change of pace, I think you’ll find these 10 secluded neighborhoods as enchanting as I do. Let’s embark on a journey through Eastern Oregon’s most tranquil spots, counting down from Beatty to Frenchglen.
10. Imnaha: Gateway to Hells Canyon with Extreme Seclusion
Imnaha is one of the most secluded places I’ve ever visited, offering a rugged lifestyle at the edge of the wilderness. With a population of around 159 people, it’s the easternmost settlement in Oregon and serves as a gateway to Hells Canyon—the deepest river gorge in North America.
I love the sense of remoteness here; it’s truly a place where you can disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. The area is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and hunting, with vast landscapes that seem almost untouched.
A hidden gem is the historic Imnaha Store and Tavern, where locals gather and travelers can experience genuine hospitality. If you’re seeking solitude and an authentic connection with the wild, Imnaha is unparalleled.
Where is Imnaha?
Imnaha is nestled in Wallowa County, at the northeastern corner of Oregon, near the Oregon-Idaho border. The community is situated along the Imnaha River, surrounded by steep canyon walls and rolling hills.
Getting there involves a scenic drive northeast of the town of Joseph along Imnaha Highway, a route that I find both beautiful and adventurous. The journey offers panoramic views of the Wallowa Mountains and deep canyons, making it as memorable as the destination itself.
9. Plush: Isolation in Oregon’s Outback Near Hart Mountain
Plush is a tiny community that I’ve always found intriguing for its isolation and unique surroundings. With a population of just about 60 people, it’s nestled near Hart Mountain and offers vast, open spaces characteristic of Oregon’s Outback.
The area is renowned for the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, where you can observe pronghorn antelope and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
One of my favorite hidden treasures here is the sunstone mining sites, where you can dig for Oregon’s state gemstone. The serenity and wide-open skies make Plush a perfect destination for stargazing and experiencing the solitude of the high desert.
Where is Plush?
Plush is located in Lake County, about 37 miles northeast of Lakeview, accessible via county roads that traverse the expansive desert landscape. The community sits at the edge of the Warner Valley, surrounded by rugged hills and alkaline lakes.
What fascinates me about Plush is its proximity to both the desert and the mountains, offering diverse terrains to explore. To reach Plush, you’ll drive along rural roads that provide a true sense of adventure and seclusion.
8. Juntura: A High Desert Retreat Along the Malheur River
Juntura is a small hamlet that I’ve come to appreciate for its tranquil setting along the Malheur River. Home to around 57 residents, it’s a peaceful spot in the high desert where solitude is a way of life. I enjoy the natural hot springs in the area, which offer a relaxing way to unwind amid vast landscapes.
The town’s name means “junction” in Spanish, reflecting its location at the confluence of the Malheur and North Fork Malheur Rivers. Fishing, bird watching, and exploring the surrounding sagebrush plains are some of the activities that make Juntura a hidden gem in Eastern Oregon.
Where is Juntura?
Juntura is located in Malheur County, about 70 miles west of Vale along U.S. Route 20. The community is set against a backdrop of rolling hills and open desert, with the Malheur River meandering nearby.
What I find particularly interesting is how Juntura serves as a rest spot between larger towns, yet remains quietly off the beaten path. To get there, you can drive west from Vale on U.S. Route 20, enjoying the expansive views of Eastern Oregon’s high desert along the way.
7. Troy: A Secluded Hamlet at the Confluence of Two Rivers
Troy is a peaceful community that I’ve found enchanting for its location at the confluence of the Grande Ronde and Wenaha Rivers. With a population of around 25 people, it’s one of the most remote places in Oregon.
The area is a paradise for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts like me, offering excellent fishing, hunting, and hiking opportunities. Surrounded by the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness, Troy boasts stunning canyon landscapes and abundant wildlife.
One of my favorite spots is the Troy Resort, a family-owned establishment that provides a cozy place to stay and a chance to connect with locals.
Where is Troy?
Troy is situated in Wallowa County, near the northeastern border of Oregon and Washington. The community lies at the bottom of a deep canyon, accessible via winding roads that descend from the high plateaus above.
I find the geography here particularly captivating, with steep canyon walls and lush riverbanks creating a secluded atmosphere.
To reach Troy, you’ll drive north from Enterprise on Oregon Route 3, then take a series of county roads that lead down into the canyon—a journey that offers breathtaking views and a true sense of adventure.
6. Imnaha River Canyon: Homes Amidst Rugged Canyon Landscapes
The Imnaha River Canyon area is a place I’ve often thought of when imagining extreme seclusion and natural beauty. The few homes scattered throughout the canyon are set amidst rugged landscapes that are both dramatic and serene.
The population here is sparse, with perhaps a few dozen residents who value privacy and a close connection to nature. I enjoy the challenging hikes available in the area, including trails that lead into the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.
The canyon is also rich in wildlife, offering chances to see bighorn sheep, eagles, and other majestic creatures. For those seeking a remote lifestyle immersed in nature, the Imnaha River Canyon is truly exceptional.
Where is the Imnaha River Canyon?
The Imnaha River Canyon is located in Wallowa County, extending from the town of Imnaha towards the Snake River. The canyon cuts deep into the landscape, creating steep walls and rugged terrain that I find both awe-inspiring and humbling.
Access is primarily via the Imnaha River Road, a route that winds along the river and offers spectacular views at every turn. To get there, you’ll travel northeast from Joseph, Oregon, following the Imnaha Highway into the remote corners of the state.
5. Oxbow: Life Along the Snake River in a Hidden Valley
Oxbow is a small community that I’ve always found captivating for its secluded location along the Snake River. With a population of around 75 people, it’s nestled in a hidden valley surrounded by steep canyon walls.
The town offers riverfront properties and a peaceful way of life that’s hard to find elsewhere. I enjoy fishing and boating on the Snake River, and the nearby Hells Canyon Dam area provides plenty of outdoor activities.
One of the area’s hidden gems is the Oxbow Hatchery, where you can learn about local fish conservation efforts. Living in Oxbow means embracing a tranquil lifestyle, enveloped by Oregon’s rugged natural beauty.
Where is Oxbow?
Oxbow is located in Baker County, near the Idaho border in Eastern Oregon. The community sits along Oregon Route 86, which follows the Snake River through deep canyons and scenic landscapes.
What intrigues me about Oxbow is its remote setting—it’s off the beaten path and offers a true sense of escape. To reach Oxbow, you’ll drive east from Baker City on Route 86, passing through the quaint town of Halfway before descending into the canyon where Oxbow resides.
4. Crane: Rural Living with Expansive Farmland Views
Crane is a tiny unincorporated community that I’ve always appreciated for its vast open spaces and rural charm. Home to about 100 residents, it offers expansive views of farmland and wetlands that stretch as far as the eye can see.
The Crane Hot Springs is a local highlight, providing a soothing retreat where I love to relax and soak under the starry night skies.
The area is also a haven for bird watchers, with migratory birds frequenting the wetlands throughout the year. For those who value privacy and a strong connection to the land, Crane offers a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle.
Where is Crane?
Crane is located in Harney County, about 30 miles southeast of Burns along Oregon Route 78. The community is situated in Oregon’s high desert, characterized by its wide-open landscapes and clear skies.
I find the geography here particularly serene, with gentle hills and vast farmlands creating a tranquil environment. To get to Crane, you can drive southeast from Burns on Route 78, enjoying the quiet roads and panoramic views that define this remote part of Oregon.
3. Fields: A Quiet Haven on the Oregon-Nevada Border
Fields is one of the most secluded communities I’ve visited, located near the southernmost tip of Oregon. With a population of around 120 people, it’s an isolated area where residents enjoy large acreages and panoramic desert landscapes.
The centerpiece of the town is the Fields Station, a combination café, gas station, and motel that serves as the social hub. I highly recommend trying their famous milkshakes—they’re a delightful surprise in such a remote spot.
The surrounding area offers stunning views of the Steens Mountain and opportunities for off-road exploration. Fields is ideal for those seeking solitude and a unique high-desert experience.
Where is Fields?
Fields is located in Harney County, just a few miles north of the Oregon-Nevada border along Fields-Denio Road. The community sits in a broad valley flanked by mountain ranges, offering expansive vistas that I find truly mesmerizing.
The remote location means it’s far from major highways, enhancing its secluded atmosphere. To reach Fields, you’ll need to embark on a long drive through the high desert, typically from Burns via Oregon Route 205, embracing the vast and open landscapes that define this region.
2. Diamond: Seclusion Amidst Rolling Hills and Ranchlands
Diamond is a small ranching community that I’ve come to love for its quiet charm and beautiful surroundings. With a population of just about 5 people, it’s truly a place where you can get away from it all.
The area is characterized by rolling hills, expansive ranchlands, and an abundance of wildlife. I enjoy visiting the nearby Diamond Craters, a volcanic area with unique geological formations that are perfect for exploration.
The Historic Diamond Hotel is a hidden gem, offering a glimpse into the area’s past and a cozy place to rest. If you’re seeking seclusion amid Oregon’s high desert beauty, Diamond is a captivating destination.
Where is Diamond?
Diamond is located in Harney County, about 52 miles southeast of Burns, accessible via a series of county roads that traverse the open countryside. The community is nestled near the base of the Steens Mountain, adding to its scenic appeal.
What I find intriguing is how Diamond feels like a step back in time, with its historic buildings and untouched landscapes. To get there, you can drive south from Burns on Oregon Route 78, then turn onto the remote backroads that lead to this secluded locale.
1. Frenchglen: A Remote Oasis Near Steens Mountain
Frenchglen is perhaps one of my favorite secluded spots in Eastern Oregon, nestled at the base of the majestic Steens Mountain. With a population of around 12 people, it offers vast open spaces, rugged landscapes, and a handful of historic buildings that exude old-world charm.
I love staying at the Frenchglen Hotel, a rustic inn that provides a cozy retreat after a day of exploring. The nearby Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts like me.
Hiking, photography, and soaking in the natural beauty are some of the simple pleasures that make Frenchglen a remote oasis worth visiting.
Where is Frenchglen?
Frenchglen is located in Harney County, about 60 miles south of Burns along Oregon Route 205. The community sits at the northern edge of Steens Mountain Wilderness, providing easy access to some of Oregon’s most dramatic landscapes.
The geography here is stunning, with high desert plains giving way to the towering peaks of Steens Mountain. To get to Frenchglen, you can drive south from Burns on Route 205, a journey that offers sweeping views and a true sense of solitude as you approach this hidden gem.
