Nude in the Northwest Alvord Desert Camp Out

Presented by: AANR Northwest

Location:
Alvord Desert Playa
Coordinates: 42.5672161, -118.4072869
Harney County, Oregon
  
We will be camping directly on the open playa (dry lakebed) near Steens Mountain. This is primitive, dry camping — there are no services on the playa. Come fully self-contained and prepared.
    
🚗 Driving Directions:
There are two main access points onto the playa. You may enter from either Frog Lake (free public access) or through Alvord Desert Hot Springs (paid access).

1⃣ Frog Lake Access (Free Public Access)
From Burns, Oregon:
• Take OR-205 South toward Frenchglen
• Continue past Frenchglen toward Fields
• Turn left onto East Steens / Alvord Desert Road
• Follow signs toward Frog Lake
• Continue on gravel roads to the north end playa access
• Drive onto the playa and head toward the coordinates
From Fields, Oregon:
• Take OR-205 North
• Turn right onto East Steens / Alvord Desert Road
• Follow signs toward Frog Lake
• Continue to the playa access
✔ No fee
✔ Rough gravel road
✔ High clearance recommended

2⃣ Alvord Desert Hot Springs Access (Paid Entry)
From Burns, Oregon:
• Take OR-205 South toward Frenchglen
• Continue toward Fields
• Turn left at the Alvord Desert Hot Springs sign
• Pay the day-use fee at the office
• Follow their access road onto the playa
From Fields, Oregon:
• Take OR-205 North
• Turn right at the Alvord Desert Hot Springs entrance
• Pay entry fee
• Follow their access road onto the playa
✔ Maintained access road
✔ Day-use fee required
✔ Optional hot springs soak available
  
⚠ Important Notes:
• Do NOT drive onto the playa if it is wet — it becomes deep, impassable mud very quickly.
• Check weather before arrival.
• Download offline maps — cell service is extremely limited.
• Bring extra water, fuel, shade, and supplies.
• Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
June 19-21, 2026