Cities and Towns in Harney County, Oregon

Founded in 1889, Harney County is one of 36 counties in the state of Oregon. Historically, Harney County was formed from Southern two-thirds of Grant County. The city of Burns is the county seat. With FIPS code of 25, Harney County has a population of 7,575 and area of 10,135 square miles (26,250 km²).

List of all cities in Harney County, OR alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Burns, OR	97710	541
	97720	541
Crane, OR	97732	541
Diamond, OR	97722	541
Drewsey, OR	97904	541
Fields, OR	97710	541
Frenchglen, OR	97736	541
Hines, OR	97738	541
Lawen, OR	97720	541
Princeton, OR	97721	541
Riley, OR	97758	541

Major Cities and Towns in Harney County, Oregon

Burns

Overview

Burns, the county seat of Harney County, is located in southeastern Oregon along U.S. Route 20. Established in the late 19th century, the city was named after the Scottish poet Robert Burns. Its development was closely tied to the cattle ranching industry, serving as a central hub for ranchers in the region. The arrival of the Oregon Eastern Branch of the Union Pacific Railroad in 1924 further spurred economic growth, facilitating the transport of livestock and goods. Over time, Burns has evolved into a community that balances its rich ranching heritage with modern amenities, serving as a gateway to the vast landscapes of Harney County.

• Area: Approximately 3.6 square miles
• Population: Around 2,800 residents
• ZIP Code: 97720
• Latitude: 43.5866° N
• Longitude: 119.0548° W

Education and Landmarks

Burns is served by the Harney County School District, which includes Burns High School, known for its comprehensive academic and extracurricular programs. A notable landmark in the city is the Harney County Historical Museum, which offers exhibits on the region’s history, including artifacts from the pioneer era and displays on local wildlife. Additionally, the nearby Malheur National Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities for bird watching and nature exploration, attracting visitors from across the country.

Hines

Overview

Hines is situated immediately southwest of Burns, along U.S. Route 20. The city was established in the 1920s by the Edward Hines Lumber Company, which built a large sawmill and company town to support its operations. The mill became one of the largest pine sawmills in the country, significantly contributing to the local economy. Incorporated in 1930, Hines developed as a community centered around the timber industry. Although the mill ceased operations in the 1980s, the city has maintained its identity, with many of the original company-built homes still in use.

• Area: Approximately 2.3 square miles
• Population: Around 1,500 residents
• ZIP Code: 97738
• Latitude: 43.5654° N
• Longitude: 119.0836° W

Education and Landmarks

Hines is part of the Harney County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Burns. A significant landmark in the city is the Hines City Park, which offers recreational facilities including playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails. The park serves as a community gathering place and hosts various local events throughout the year. The proximity to the Malheur National Forest provides residents and visitors with access to outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing.

Crane

Overview

Crane is an unincorporated community located approximately 30 miles southeast of Burns, at the junction of Oregon Routes 78 and 205. Established in the early 20th century, the town was named after the nearby Crane Creek. Crane developed as a livestock shipping point, with the Union Pacific Railroad extending a line to the town in 1916. At its peak, Crane boasted several businesses, including hotels, stores, and a dance hall. However, a series of fires in the 1920s and the decline of rail transport led to a reduction in its prominence. Today, Crane remains a small community with a focus on ranching and agriculture.

• Area: Approximately 0.5 square miles
• Population: Around 100 residents
• ZIP Code: 97732
• Latitude: 43.4093° N
• Longitude: 118.5913° W

Education and Landmarks

Crane is served by the Crane Union High School District, which operates Crane Union High School, a boarding school that serves students from the surrounding rural areas. The school is notable for its unique boarding program, accommodating students from distant ranches and communities. A landmark in the area is the historic Crane Hot Springs, offering natural hot spring pools for relaxation and attracting visitors seeking a rustic retreat. The surrounding high desert landscape provides opportunities for wildlife observation and outdoor recreation.

Diamond

Overview

Diamond is a small unincorporated community located approximately 52 miles south of Burns, near the base of Steens Mountain. The community was named after a diamond-shaped branding iron used by a local cattle rancher. Established in the late 19th century, Diamond served as a modest center for ranching activities in the region. The area’s history is closely tied to cattle ranching, with several historic ranches still operating today. Diamond remains a quiet community, offering a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of southeastern Oregon.

• Area: Approximately 0.2 square miles
• Population: Around 5 residents
• ZIP Code: 97722
• Latitude: 43.1882° N
• Longitude: 118.6734° W

Education and Landmarks

Due to its small size, Diamond does not have its own schools; students attend schools in nearby communities such as Crane or Burns. A notable landmark in the area is the historic Diamond Hotel, built in 1898, which now operates as a bed and breakfast, offering visitors a taste of the region’s history and hospitality. The proximity to Steens Mountain and the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, and exploring the unique geological features of the area.