In Oregon’s far southeastern quadrant, the Steens rise not like a mountain range, but like an idea—one long, sheer fault-block wall, ribbed and shadowed, anchoring a high desert that looks unchanged since basalt cooled. Here, the land doesn’t yield easily, and the towns don’t pretend otherwise. They aren’t oases. They’re outposts. Frenchglen, Fields, Lawen—each place holds a weathered kind of calm, where silence is thick enough to be noticed and neighbors are counted by name, not number.
This is country where roads don’t end; they dissolve. Where cattle outnumber people and the concept of “crowded” involves more than three trucks at the gas pump. The air moves slow. The sky performs. And the light—low, golden, persistent—makes even the rusted hinge of a windmill feel like sculpture. In Princeton, old homesteads lean into the wind like they’ve made peace with being forgotten. In Diamond, a single bed-and-breakfast stands like a lighthouse in the sage.
The Steens Wilderness isn’t remote by accident—it’s remote by conviction. What they offer is not nostalgia or novelty, but a living quietude—a place where the modern world feels optional, and the land reminds you who’s really in charge.
These aren’t towns you pass through. These are towns you have to mean to find.
10. Lawen: A Quiet Refuge in Oregon’s High Desert
Lawen, a tiny yet charming community, offers a tranquil escape amid Oregon’s sprawling high desert. With its peaceful ambiance and open landscapes, this secluded hamlet invites visitors to experience the slower pace of rural life.
Surrounded by wide expanses of sagebrush and golden grasslands, Lawen provides a serene environment where nature takes center stage. The area is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts, with nearby wetlands hosting a variety of species, and its unspoiled terrain offers the perfect setting for quiet exploration and reflection.
Lawen’s simplicity and natural beauty make it a delightful getaway for those looking to disconnect and unwind.
Where is Lawen?
Nestled in Harney County, Lawen sits along Oregon Route 78, southeast of Burns. This tiny community lies within the Steens Wilderness region, offering visitors a gateway to the area’s vast and untamed landscapes.
The journey to Lawen is marked by open roads and sweeping views, making the drive as peaceful as the destination itself. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a connection to nature, Lawen promises a refreshing retreat far from the noise of urban life.
9. Rome: Cliffs and Quietude
Rome is a tiny community known primarily for its remarkable geological formations, the Pillars of Rome. With a population of less than 20 people, it offers an intimate glimpse into rural life in Oregon’s high desert.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Owyhee River Canyon, go rafting, or admire the unique rock structures that resemble ancient ruins. The town serves mainly as a hub for ranching and a rest spot for travelers.
Rome’s secluded nature is due to its location amidst vast stretches of uninhabited land, providing serene landscapes and star-filled skies free from light pollution. Its quiet ambiance and natural wonders make it a hidden treasure for those looking to disconnect.
Where is Rome?
Located in southeastern Oregon, Rome sits along Highway 95, not far from the Idaho border. The town’s isolation is heightened by the expansive Owyhee desert that surrounds it, with few signs of civilization for miles.
The nearest significant town is Jordan Valley, about 30 miles to the north, emphasizing Rome’s remote setting. Travelers can reach Rome via a scenic drive through high desert plains, where the journey offers expansive views and a sense of leaving the crowded world behind.
8. Riley: Junction of Solitude
Riley is a small unincorporated community with a population of around 20 people, serving primarily as a quiet junction in the Oregon outback. The area offers opportunities for hunting, wildlife viewing, and exploring the open sagebrush country.
There’s a modest store and gas station catering to the needs of locals and passersby. The economy revolves around ranching and providing essential services to travelers.
Riley’s seclusion comes from its location at the crossroads of remote highways, far from bustling urban centers. The vast horizons and sparse population make it a peaceful waypoint in the high desert.
Where is Riley?
Riley is located at the intersection of U.S. Route 395 and Oregon Route 20, about 28 miles west of Burns, Oregon. The town’s remote setting is accentuated by the surrounding open landscapes and minimal development.
The area is characterized by rolling hills and wide-open skies, contributing to its tranquil atmosphere. Access to Riley involves traveling through stretches of unpopulated terrain, reinforcing the sense of solitude upon arrival.
7. Narrows: Where Wildlife Flourishes
Narrows is a tiny community nestled between Malheur Lake and Harney Lake, with a population of fewer than 10 residents. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe a variety of migratory birds and local wildlife.
The local economy centers on a small RV park and a cafe that serves as a communal gathering spot. The seclusion of Narrows is due to its unique position between two significant bodies of water in a sparsely populated region.
The abundance of wildlife and the tranquil waterside views make it a serene retreat for visitors and residents alike.
Where is Narrows?
Narrows is situated approximately 25 miles south of Burns, Oregon, along State Route 205. The town’s isolation is heightened by the surrounding wetlands and the vast expanse of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.
The remote location ensures minimal traffic and a peaceful environment, with access primarily by road through scenic, open country. The journey to Narrows offers glimpses of the diverse ecosystems that define this secluded corner of Oregon.
6. Andrews: Echoes of the Past
Andrews is a ghost town that once had a small but thriving community, now reduced to a few abandoned buildings and structures. While there are no permanent residents, the area attracts history buffs and explorers interested in the remnants of early 20th-century life.
Visitors can wander among the old schoolhouse and homesteads, imagining the stories of those who once lived there. The town’s decline was due to the harsh living conditions and isolation, which today contribute to its allure as a secluded historical site.
Andrews offers a stark and captivating glimpse into the past amid the stark beauty of the desert.
Where is Andrews?
Located in southeastern Oregon, Andrews lies south of Fields near the base of Steens Mountain. The ghost town is accessible via remote dirt roads, which adds to its sense of isolation and adventure.
The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged desert terrain and sweeping vistas, making the journey as engaging as the destination. Reaching Andrews requires careful planning and a sturdy vehicle, but the reward is a profound sense of solitude and a tangible connection to Oregon’s history.
5. Princeton: Gateway to the Wilderness
Princeton is a small community with an approximate population of 50 residents, serving as a quiet portal to the wonders of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Outdoor activities abound, including birdwatching, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding wilderness.
The local economy is primarily based on agriculture and ranching, reflecting the area’s rural character. Princeton’s seclusion is due in part to its distance from larger towns and its proximity to vast protected natural areas.
This peaceful setting provides a serene base for adventurers and those seeking a respite from the fast pace of city life.
Where is Princeton?
Princeton is situated along Oregon Route 78, about 35 miles southeast of Burns, Oregon. The town is enveloped by open rangelands and wetlands, contributing to its quiet atmosphere.
The remote location means fewer visitors and minimal development, preserving the natural beauty of the area. Getting to Princeton involves a drive through expansive landscapes, where the horizon seems endless and the stresses of everyday life fade away.
4. Crane: Soak in Serenity
Crane is a quaint community with around 100 residents, best known for its natural hot springs that offer a relaxing escape. Visitors can soak in the warm waters while enjoying views of the high desert plains. The town features a historic general store and a few small businesses serving both locals and travelers.
Agriculture and ranching are the main industries, sustaining the traditional rural lifestyle. Crane’s secluded nature is due to its remote location and small population, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and a touch of rustic charm.
Where is Crane?
Located approximately 30 miles southeast of Burns, Crane sits along Oregon Route 78. The town’s isolation is amplified by the surrounding sagebrush-covered hills and open skies.
The journey to Crane takes you through serene desert landscapes, with the hot springs providing a rewarding destination. Accessible primarily by road, Crane offers a peaceful retreat away from crowded tourist spots.
3. Diamond: Timeless Ranching Heritage
Diamond is a small ranching community with a population of about 5, offering a glimpse into Oregon’s timeless agricultural traditions. Visitors can explore historic sites like the Diamond Hotel, which dates back to the 1890s and still operates as a bed and breakfast.
The area is perfect for horseback riding, hiking, and observing the abundant wildlife. Diamond’s seclusion is a result of its remote location amid vast ranchlands and its minuscule population. The expansive open spaces and the enduring ranching lifestyle make it a unique destination for those interested in history and solitude.
Where is Diamond?
Diamond is located in southeastern Oregon, about 52 miles south of Burns, nestled near the base of Steens Mountain. The town is accessed via remote county roads, enhancing its sense of isolation.
The surrounding landscapes of rolling hills and open valleys contribute to the peaceful ambiance. Travelers seeking Diamond will find the journey part of the experience, traversing through some of Oregon’s most unspoiled terrains.
2. Fields: A Desert Oasis
Fields is a remote spot with a population of around 12, known for its legendary milkshakes served at the Fields Station. The area offers opportunities for hiking, observing wildflowers, and experiencing the quiet solitude of the high desert.
Ranching is the primary industry, with vast cattle ranches dotting the landscape. Fields’ seclusion comes from its distant location far from urban centers and the expansive deserts that surround it. The combination of friendly locals and the stark beauty of the environment creates a welcoming yet remote atmosphere.
Where is Fields?
Situated in the southern part of Harney County, Oregon, Fields is near the base of Steens Mountain, not far from the Nevada border. The town is accessible via Highway 205, but it’s a long drive through unpopulated areas, highlighting its remoteness.
The surrounding Alvord Desert and mountain ranges accentuate the feeling of isolation. Visitors often find that reaching Fields is a journey through some of Oregon’s most dramatic and untouched landscapes.
1. Frenchglen: The Heart of Steens Wilderness
Frenchglen is a tiny settlement with a population of approximately 12 people, serving as the gateway to the magnificent Steens Mountain. Visitors can stay at the historic Frenchglen Hotel, explore the mountain’s breathtaking gorges and vistas, and observe wild mustangs roaming the ranges.
The local economy is centered around ranching and tourism related to the wilderness area. Frenchglen’s seclusion is due to its remote setting at the edge of the Steens Mountain Wilderness, offering a rustic charm and an immersive nature experience.
The town embodies the tranquility and rugged beauty that define Oregon’s high desert.
Where is Frenchglen?
Frenchglen is located in southeastern Oregon along Highway 205, about 60 miles south of Burns. The town sits at the foot of Steens Mountain, surrounded by vast expanses of desert and mountain landscapes.
Its remote location and the limited infrastructure contribute to its peaceful atmosphere. Reaching Frenchglen involves a scenic drive through the heart of the high desert, with the stunning backdrop of Steens Mountain guiding the way. The journey is a passage into one of Oregon’s most serene and captivating regions.
