Experience the vastness and tranquility of the Harney Basin, where the high desert stretches as far as the eye can see and the pace of life slows to a gentle rhythm. Nestled in southeastern Oregon, these ten secluded towns offer a retreat into untouched landscapes, rich history, and a simpler way of life. Far from the bustling cities, each community provides unique opportunities to explore natural wonders, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the high desert. Join us as we count down the ten most secluded towns in the Harney Basin, inviting you to uncover the charm and solitude that make this region a haven for those looking to get away from it all.
10. The Isolated Beauty of Lawen
Lawen is a tiny unincorporated settlement with a population of fewer than 20 residents. Surrounded by expansive sagebrush plains, this small community offers a glimpse into isolated rural life. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching in the nearby wetlands, which serve as a sanctuary for a variety of waterfowl and wildlife. The primary industries in Lawen are agriculture and ranching, reflecting the town’s deep connection to the land. Its seclusion is marked by the vast open spaces that stretch in every direction, creating a peaceful retreat far removed from urban hustle.
Where is Lawen?
Located in Harney County, Lawen sits along Oregon Route 78, approximately 22 miles east of Burns. The town’s isolation is amplified by the surrounding high desert landscape and limited population density. To reach Lawen, travelers drive east from Burns through rolling sagebrush and under endless skies. The journey itself underscores the remoteness of the area, as the highway winds through unspoiled natural beauty with few signs of modern development.
9. Wagontire: Almost a Ghost Town
Wagontire is an almost deserted town with a population that can sometimes be counted on one hand. Once a stopover for travelers crossing the high desert, it now stands as a testament to the remote lifestyle of the Harney Basin. Visitors might spot the remnants of an old motel and café, relics of a bygone era. With no significant industries remaining, Wagontire’s quiet existence highlights the challenges and solitude of living in such an isolated area. Its seclusion comes from its location on a seldom-traveled stretch of U.S. Route 395, surrounded by miles of open desert.
Where is Wagontire?
Situated about 65 miles south of Burns on U.S. Route 395, Wagontire rests in the heart of Oregon’s high desert. The town’s seclusion is intensified by the sparse population and minimal services along this remote highway. Travelers heading south from Burns will traverse vast, empty landscapes before arriving at this near-ghost town. The journey offers a profound sense of solitude, as the road stretches endlessly between horizons with little to interrupt the vista.
8. The Quietude of Princeton
Princeton is a tiny community with an estimated population of around 35 residents. Serving as a peaceful retreat in the high desert, it offers visitors a chance to disconnect and enjoy the calmness of rural life. Nearby attractions include the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The main industries here are ranching and agriculture, integral to the town’s way of life. Princeton’s seclusion is due to its remote location and the vast expanses of untouched nature that envelop it, providing a serene backdrop for those seeking tranquility.
Where is Princeton?
Located approximately 35 miles southeast of Burns along Oregon Route 78, Princeton sits on the edge of one of Oregon’s most significant wildlife refuges. Its isolation is accentuated by the surrounding open rangeland and minimal traffic. To reach Princeton, travelers drive through miles of high desert scenery, where the horizon seems to stretch infinitely. The town’s remote setting makes it a hidden gem for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
7. Remote Living in Drewsey
Drewsey is a secluded town nestled along the Malheur River with a population of about 20 residents. Steeped in rich pioneer heritage, it features historic buildings that tell stories of early settlement in the region. Visitors can explore local history at the Drewsey Museum or enjoy outdoor activities like fishing and hiking in the surrounding areas. The main industries are ranching and forestry, deeply rooted in the town’s tradition. Drewsey’s seclusion stems from its location amidst rolling hills and its distance from major highways, offering a tranquil escape into nature.
Where is Drewsey?
Situated about 45 miles east of Burns, Drewsey is accessible via U.S. Route 20 and a scenic drive along the Malheur River. The town’s isolation is heightened by the winding roads that lead through picturesque landscapes and the absence of urban development. Travelers can reach Drewsey by turning north off the highway, where the journey itself becomes part of the appeal. The remote setting allows visitors to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the Harney Basin.
6. The Solitude of Riley
Riley is a quiet crossroads with an estimated population of around 20 residents. Offering a serene escape amid endless high desert vistas, the town is characterized by its vast open spaces and clear night skies. While amenities are minimal, its simplicity is part of the charm, making it a perfect stop for those seeking solitude. Ranching is the primary industry, and the surrounding landscape reflects a lifestyle attuned to the rhythms of nature. Riley’s seclusion is underscored by its remote location and the sparse population of the region.
Where is Riley?
Located at the junction of U.S. Route 20 and U.S. Route 395, approximately 28 miles west of Burns, Riley serves as a gateway to the wider expanses of the high desert. The town’s isolation is evident in the lengthy stretches of road that connect it to neighboring communities. Travelers approaching Riley will pass through panoramic views of sagebrush-covered plains, highlighting the remoteness that defines this tranquil spot. The simplicity of getting there belies the profound sense of peace that awaits.
5. Fields: An Oasis in the Desert
Fields is a remote town with a population of about 120 residents, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and famous milkshakes served at the Fields Station café. Nestled near the base of Steens Mountain, it offers access to natural hot springs and vast desert landscapes perfect for hiking and photography. The main industries are ranching and tourism, catering to adventurers exploring the Alvord Desert and the surrounding wilderness. Fields’ seclusion is a result of its distant location and the rugged beauty of the area, making it a true oasis amid the high desert.
Where is Fields?
Positioned near the Oregon-Nevada border along Fields-Denio Road, Fields is approximately 112 miles south of Burns. Its isolation is amplified by the expansive stretches of uninhabited land that surround it. Travelers can reach Fields by driving south on Oregon Route 205, passing through some of the state’s most unspoiled and dramatic scenery. The journey highlights the remoteness of Fields, rewarding visitors with a sense of discovery upon arrival.
4. The Remote Beauty of Crane
Crane is a small community with a population of around 100 residents, surrounded by vast open spaces and known for its soothing natural hot springs. Visitors can unwind at the Crystal Crane Hot Springs, a hidden gem offering relaxation under star-filled skies. The town serves as a hub for local ranchers, with agriculture being the mainstay of the economy. Crane’s seclusion arises from its location amid the high desert plains, offering expansive views and a peaceful atmosphere that invites rest and reflection.
Where is Crane?
Located 30 miles southeast of Burns along Oregon Route 78, Crane is accessible yet retains a sense of being off the beaten path. Its isolation is accentuated by the stretches of open landscape that precede it and minimal traffic on the roads. Travelers can reach Crane by a leisurely drive through the high desert, where the simplicity of the surroundings sets the tone for the visit. The town’s remoteness is part of its charm, offering a retreat into quietude.
3. Andrews: The Forgotten Ghost Town
Andrews is a true ghost town with no permanent residents, offering a haunting glimpse into the past. Once a modest community, it now features remnants of buildings that whisper stories of early settlers and a bygone era. Exploring Andrews allows visitors to step back in time amidst the silence of the desert. With no industries or active businesses, the town stands as a historical waypoint, reflecting the challenges of frontier life. Its seclusion is profound, surrounded by the vastness of the Harney Basin where human footprints are few.
Where is Andrews?
Nestled near the base of Steens Mountain in southeastern Oregon, Andrews is accessible via remote desert roads south of Fields. The town’s isolation is due to its location in one of the most uninhabited areas of the state, far from paved highways. Reaching Andrews requires careful navigation and a spirit of adventure, often necessitating a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The journey through rugged terrain and expansive deserts underscores the seclusion that defines this forgotten place.
2. Serenity in Diamond
Diamond is a secluded spot with a population of around 5 residents, known for its rich ranching history and stunning natural surroundings. The town offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can stay at the historic Diamond Hotel, a restored 1898 building that provides a glimpse into the past. Nearby attractions include the Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area and the Pete French Round Barn. Ranching remains the main industry, and the community embodies the enduring spirit of the Oregon frontier. Diamond’s seclusion is enhanced by its remote location and the tranquility that pervades the landscape.
Where is Diamond?
Located approximately 52 miles southeast of Burns, Diamond can be reached by traveling south on Oregon Route 205 and then east on Diamond Lane. The town’s isolation is a result of its position amid vast ranchlands and the absence of nearby urban centers. The journey to Diamond takes visitors through the heart of the high desert, where wildlife sightings and panoramic views are common. The remote setting provides an ideal backdrop for those seeking respite from the fast pace of modern life.
1. The Hidden Charm of Frenchglen
Frenchglen is a tiny town with an estimated population of about 12 residents, serving as a gateway to the majestic Steens Mountain and untouched wilderness. Visitors can stay at the historic Frenchglen Hotel, explore the scenic Steens Mountain Loop Road, and enjoy birdwatching at the nearby Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. The main industries are tourism and ranching, leveraging the natural beauty and outdoor opportunities of the area. Frenchglen’s seclusion arises from its remote location and the vast protected lands that surround it, offering an idyllic escape into nature’s tranquility.
Where is Frenchglen?
Situated approximately 60 miles south of Burns along Oregon Route 205, Frenchglen rests at the base of Steens Mountain. The town’s isolation is accentuated by the rugged terrain and the distance from major highways. Travelers reach Frenchglen by journeying through miles of high desert, where the landscape transitions to dramatic mountain vistas. The remote setting, coupled with the rich opportunities for outdoor recreation, makes Frenchglen a coveted destination for adventurers and solitude seekers alike.
