Nestled within the expansive landscapes of Eastern Oregon lies the Malheur Basin—a region rich with serene beauty and untouched wilderness. For those yearning to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life, this area offers a collection of secluded towns where tranquility reigns supreme. From hidden oases along rivers to quiet retreats amidst high deserts, these communities provide a unique glimpse into a simple, peaceful way of living. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking solitude, a nature enthusiast eager to explore vast open spaces, or someone looking to connect with tight-knit communities, the Malheur Basin’s towns have something special to offer. Join us as we count down the ten most secluded towns in this captivating region, each with its own charm and story. Discover the hidden gems of Oregon’s countryside and perhaps find your next great escape.
10. Princeton: Rural Seclusion Amidst Oregon’s Vast Landscapes
Princeton is a tiny, unincorporated community nestled in the heart of Oregon’s high desert with an estimated population of just a handful of residents. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy birdwatching at the nearby Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, where a plethora of migratory birds can be observed. The area is also ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, and exploring the wide-open spaces of Eastern Oregon. Agriculture and ranching are the primary industries, reflecting a lifestyle deeply connected to the land. Princeton’s remoteness, surrounded by expansive undeveloped land and minimal housing density, makes it a perfect haven for those seeking a quiet, private lifestyle away from bustling urban centers. Its seclusion offers a peaceful retreat where one can truly disconnect and appreciate the simplicity of rural living.
Where is Princeton?
Located in Harney County, Princeton sits along U.S. Route 20, about 36 miles east of the city of Burns. Its position deep within Oregon’s high desert contributes to its sense of isolation, with miles of sagebrush and open skies in every direction. The lack of major commercial development and the vast stretches of uninhabited land enhance its secluded atmosphere. To reach Princeton, one can drive east from Burns along U.S. Route 20, where the journey itself becomes part of the tranquil experience, showcasing the unspoiled beauty of Eastern Oregon’s countryside.
9. Fields: A Remote Community Under Oregon’s Open Skies
Fields is a remote community in the southern part of Harney County with an estimated population of fewer than a dozen residents. Known for the iconic Fields Station, visitors can indulge in legendary homemade milkshakes and hearty meals—a surprising delight in such an isolated locale. The area offers unique outdoor activities like exploring the nearby Alvord Desert, soaking in hot springs, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in Oregon. Ranching is the mainstay industry, with vast expanses of grazing land defining the region’s economy and lifestyle. Fields’ isolation, far from commercial zones and urban centers, provides a quiet atmosphere embraced by endless horizons and open skies. Its seclusion is ideal for those who appreciate solitude and the rugged beauty of untouched landscapes.
Where is Fields?
Fields is situated in the extreme southeastern corner of Oregon, near the Nevada state line. Its remote location is accentuated by the long distances to the nearest towns and the surrounding vast desert terrain. The community is accessible via a network of state highways, but its distance from major cities contributes to its secluded feel. Travelers can reach Fields by taking Highway 205 south from Burns, embarking on a scenic drive through unpopulated regions that highlight the profound seclusion of this hidden gem.
8. Frenchglen: Secluded Gateway to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge
Frenchglen is a quaint community with an estimated population of around a dozen people, serving as a serene gateway to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors can stay at the historic Frenchglen Hotel, built in 1924, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich past. The refuge provides exceptional opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and hiking amidst diverse habitats. The primary industry revolves around ranching and eco-tourism, with the local economy deeply connected to the surrounding natural environment. Frenchglen’s seclusion stems from its remote location, minimal development, and the vast protected lands that envelop it. This tranquility allows residents and visitors to immerse themselves in nature away from the distractions of urban life.
Where is Frenchglen?
Nestled in Harney County along Oregon Route 205, Frenchglen lies approximately 60 miles south of Burns. Its proximity to the Steens Mountain Wilderness and the expansive Malheur National Wildlife Refuge enhances its secluded atmosphere. The lack of nearby urban centers and the extensive stretches of uninhabited land contribute to its sense of isolation. To reach Frenchglen, travelers embark on a scenic drive along Route 205, passing through miles of untouched high desert landscapes that underscore the area’s remoteness and natural beauty.
7. Diamond: Tranquil Living Near the Steens Mountain
Diamond is a peaceful unincorporated community with an estimated population of fewer than a dozen residents, offering tranquil living near the majestic Steens Mountain. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Diamond Craters volcanic area, a geological wonder with unique formations, or visit the Pete French Round Barn State Heritage Site. The local economy centers on ranching, reflecting the area’s agricultural roots and connection to the land. Diamond’s seclusion is characterized by its large lot sizes, natural surroundings, and minimal traffic, providing a perfect backdrop for a peaceful lifestyle. Far from bustling tourist areas, Diamond offers solitude amid the expansive beauty of Eastern Oregon’s high desert.
Where is Diamond?
Located approximately 55 miles southeast of Burns, Diamond sits within Harney County’s vast landscapes. Its remote setting near Steens Mountain and the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge enhances its secluded nature. The surrounding natural barriers, such as hills and undeveloped land, further isolate it from urban influences. Travelers can reach Diamond by taking local county roads branching off from Highway 78, traversing through the serene and open high desert, which emphasizes the community’s hidden and tranquil character.
6. Crane: An Unincorporated Haven in Harney County
Crane is a small unincorporated community in Harney County with an estimated population of around 100 residents. The town offers a peaceful setting where locals engage in ranching and agriculture, maintaining the traditions of rural Oregon life. Visitors can experience the charm of the Crane Store & Cafe, or explore the quiet countryside ideal for horseback riding and nature walks. The community’s unincorporated status and expansive landscapes contribute to its tranquil atmosphere, free from the rush of city life. Crane’s lack of high-density housing and commercial development enhances its appeal as a remote and peaceful haven.
Where is Crane?
Situated about 30 miles southeast of Burns on Oregon Route 78, Crane rests in the heart of Eastern Oregon’s high desert. Its seclusion is due to its rural location surrounded by vast rangelands and minimal nearby settlements. The simplicity of its surroundings and the long distances to urban centers underscore its isolated nature. To visit Crane, travelers journey along Route 78 through miles of open landscapes, experiencing the solitude and expansive views that define this part of Oregon.
5. Drewsey: Serenity in the Heart of Eastern Oregon
Drewsey is a serene community with an approximate population of about 18 residents, nestled along the banks of the Malheur River. The town offers opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring the natural beauty of Eastern Oregon. Ranching remains the primary industry, with locals tending to the land in a tradition passed down through generations. Drewsey’s low population density and significant undeveloped land provide a sense of openness and peace. Situated over 15 miles from the nearest urban center, it offers seclusion ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat amid nature.
Where is Drewsey?
Drewsey is located approximately 45 miles east of Burns, accessible via U.S. Highway 20 and then north on Drewsey Road. Its position in the heart of Eastern Oregon contributes to its secluded character, surrounded by rolling hills and expansive rangelands. The distance from major highways and urban areas enhances its sense of isolation. Visitors reach Drewsey by venturing off the main roads, traveling through picturesque rural landscapes that highlight the town’s tranquil and hidden nature.
4. Brogan: A Hidden Gem Nestled in Rural Oregon
Brogan is a hidden gem of a community with an estimated population of around 90 residents, offering a peaceful rural lifestyle. The town is known for its agricultural roots, with fruit orchards and farming playing a significant role in the local economy. Outdoor activities include exploring the surrounding hills, enjoying nature walks, and participating in community events that bring residents together. Brogan’s seclusion is accentuated by its large acreages and natural barriers like hills, keeping it far from tourist-heavy areas. For those seeking a quiet environment surrounded by Oregon’s natural beauty, Brogan provides an idyllic setting.
Where is Brogan?
Located in Malheur County, Brogan lies along U.S. Route 26, about 24 miles northwest of Vale. Its position in the rural Oregon landscape offers a sense of separation from urban life. The town is nestled among the hills of the Willow Creek Valley, enhancing its secluded feel. Travelers can reach Brogan by following U.S. Route 26 through the scenic countryside, where the journey itself underscores the tranquility and remoteness of this charming community.
3. Ironside: Seclusion at the Edge of the Malheur Basin
Ironside is a tiny unincorporated community with an estimated population of fewer than 20 residents, epitomizing seclusion at the edge of the Malheur Basin. The area offers vast open spaces ideal for hunting, hiking, and exploring the high desert terrain. With ranching as the primary industry, residents live a lifestyle deeply connected to the land. Ironside’s minimal population and expansive undeveloped surroundings create a peaceful environment away from the noise and activity of major roads and commercial zones. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and a close-knit community in Eastern Oregon.
Where is Ironside?
Ironside is located approximately 46 miles northwest of Vale, accessible via U.S. Route 26 and then north on Ironside Mountain Road. Its remote location in Malheur County contributes to its isolated atmosphere, surrounded by rolling hills and wide-open rangelands. The lack of nearby cities or significant development enhances its seclusion. Reaching Ironside involves traveling through stretches of rural landscapes, immersing visitors in the serene and untouched beauty characteristic of the Malheur Basin.
2. Harper: A Quiet Retreat Amidst Oregon’s High Desert
Harper is a tranquil community with a population of approximately 110 residents, offering a quiet retreat amidst Oregon’s high desert. The town provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife observation, and enjoying the vast open skies. Education and agriculture are central to the community, with a local school serving as a hub for residents. Harper’s expansive lot sizes and low housing density enhance the sense of privacy and solitude for those living there. Its natural landscape and peaceful environment make it an ideal location for those looking to escape the bustle of city life.
Where is Harper?
Located along U.S. Route 20, Harper is about 23 miles west of Vale in Malheur County. The town’s position amidst expansive high desert terrain contributes to its secluded nature. The distance from urban centers and the surrounding open land reinforce its tranquil atmosphere. Travelers can reach Harper by driving west from Vale on U.S. Route 20, enjoying the scenic views of Oregon’s rural landscapes that highlight the community’s peaceful seclusion.
1. Juntura: A Remote Oasis Along the Malheur River
Juntura is a remote oasis with an estimated population of around 20 residents, situated along the winding Malheur River. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hot springs, and exploring the rugged terrain that characterizes the area. The local community revolves around ranching and a small hospitality industry, including a motel and café that serve travelers and locals alike. Surrounded by rolling hills and distant from urban centers, Juntura offers a seclusion that’s hard to find elsewhere. Its sparse population and vast natural surroundings make it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and a close connection with nature.
Where is Juntura?
Juntura is located on U.S. Route 20, approximately 60 miles west of Vale in Malheur County. Its remote location along the Malheur River enhances its secluded feel, with miles of natural landscapes in every direction. The town’s distance from major urban areas and minimal nearby development contribute to its isolation. To reach Juntura, travelers drive along U.S. Route 20 through the scenic high desert, experiencing the tranquility that defines this unique Oregon community.
