Area Attractions
Discover Oregon’s Hidden High Desert Wonders
Welcome to the Oregon Outback! Christmas Valley serves as your gateway to some of the most spectacular and unique geological formations in the Pacific Northwest. From ancient volcanic wonders to shifting sand dunes, our area offers world-class outdoor adventures just minutes from your site.
Major Geological Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Drive Time | What to Expect | Difficulty |
| Christmas Valley Sand Dunes | 15 miles east | 20 minutes | 11,000 acres of shifting sand dunes, ATV trails, hiking | Easy to Moderate |
| Fort Rock State Natural Area | 20 miles south | 25 minutes | 50,000-year-old volcanic formation, hiking trail | Easy |
| Crack-in-the-Ground | 10 miles north | 15 minutes | 2-mile volcanic fissure, underground hiking | Easy to Moderate |
| Hole-in-the-Ground | 25 miles west | 35 minutes | Massive volcanic crater, rim and floor hiking | Moderate |
| Derrick Cave | 30 miles northwest | 45 minutes | 1,200-foot lava tube cave exploration | Moderate |
| Lost Forest | 20 miles east | 30 minutes | Ancient ponderosa pine forest in desert | Easy |
Seasonal Activities & Events
Spring (March-May)
| Activity | Best Locations | What to Expect |
| Wildflower Viewing | Fort Rock, Crack-in-the-Ground | Desert blooms, moderate temperatures |
| Bird Migration | Summer Lake Wildlife Area | Peak waterfowl migration |
| Photography | All geological sites | Clear skies, dramatic lighting |
Summer (June-August)
| Activity | Best Locations | What to Expect |
| ATV/UTV Riding | Christmas Valley Sand Dunes | Peak season, all areas accessible |
| Cave Exploration | Derrick Cave, Crack-in-the-Ground | Cool respite from heat |
| Golfing | Christmas Valley Golf Course | Perfect weather, long days |
Fall (September-November)
| Activity | Best Locations | What to Expect |
| Hiking | All areas | Comfortable temperatures, clear visibility |
| Hunting | Various locations | Big game and bird hunting seasons |
| Photography | Geological formations | Stunning autumn light |
Winter (December-February)
| Activity | Best Locations | What to Expect |
| Ice Skating | Baert Lake | When ice conditions permit |
| Stargazing | Fort Rock | Clear, dark winter skies |
| Winter Photography | All accessible areas | Dramatic winter landscapes |
Planning Your Adventures
Best Times to Visit Each Attraction
| Attraction | Peak Season | Weather Considerations | Crowd Levels |
| Fort Rock | Spring/Fall | Hot in summer, accessible year-round | Low to moderate |
| Sand Dunes | Year-round | Muddy roads in spring | Moderate |
| Crack-in-the-Ground | Summer | Cool inside, hot outside in summer | Low |
| Hole-in-the-Ground | Spring/Fall | Road conditions in winter | Very low |
| Derrick Cave | Year-round | Winter road access difficult | Very low |
Safety & Regulations
General Desert Safety
- Weather: High desert climate with extreme temperature swings
- Wildlife: Rattlesnakes present – watch where you step
- Terrain: Uneven surfaces, loose rock, steep areas
- Communication: Cell service limited in remote areas
- Emergency: Nearest hospital in Lakeview (80 miles)
Leave No Trace Principles
- Pack out all trash and waste
- Stay on designated trails and roads
- Respect wildlife and vegetation
- Camp only in designated areas
- Follow fire restrictions and burn bans
Getting the Most from Your Visit
Start at Homesteader RV Park – We’re perfectly positioned in the center of Christmas Valley, making us your ideal basecamp for exploring all these incredible attractions.
Plan Multiple Days – Each major attraction deserves at least half a day, and the area offers enough activities for a week-long adventure.
Ask Local Advice – Our staff knows current conditions, seasonal access, and hidden gems. Call 541-640-3117 for updated information.
Respect the Environment – These fragile desert ecosystems have taken thousands of years to develop. Help preserve them for future generations.
Contact & Information
Homesteader RV Park
87142 Christmas Valley Hwy
Christmas Valley, OR 97641
Phone: 541-640-3117
Local Resources:
- Christmas Valley Park & Recreation: 541-576-2216
- BLM Lakeview District: 541-947-2177
- Lake County Sheriff: 541-947-6011
- Emergency Services: 911
Experience the wonders of Oregon’s high desert – where ancient geology meets modern adventure!
Reservation Info & Rules
Reserve Today
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are recommended, especially May through September. Walk-ins are welcome based on availability.
How do I make a reservation?
Call 541-640-3117. Online booking system coming soon!
Is there a deposit required?
No deposit required. Payment is due upon arrival.
Do you charge reservation fees?
No! We don’t charge any reservation or booking fees.
Can I modify my reservation?
Yes, changes are free if made 48+ hours in advance and subject to availability.
What’s your cancellation policy?
48+ hours = full refund, 24-48 hours = 50% refund, less than 24 hours = no refund.
Do you offer group discounts?
Yes! Special rates available for groups of 3+ RVs and RV club rallies.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Cash, personal checks, and major credit cards.
Can I extend my stay once I’m there?
Absolutely! Subject to availability. We offer weekly and monthly rates.
What if weather forces me to cancel?
We consider weather-related cancellations on a case-by-case basis.