To thank the community for its support, Crane Hot Springs is offering Harney County residents 75 percent off day use of the pond throughout December and January. 

Dan and Denise Kryger bought the Crane Hot Springs 25 years ago — on Dec. 25, 1997.

During the past 25 years, the Krygers have added 16 rooms; put in camping sites; revamped the pond, office, laundry room, and common room; and added about 30 staff members.

“The driving force to expand was the lack of accommodations for all the people wanting to check us out,” Dan said. “We’ve done nothing but expand since we got here.”

Dan said he was immediately drawn to the property due the amount of land and water rights. He saw the potential for growth.

With this vision in mind, Dan and Denise decided to buy the property, even though Dan had never soaked in a hot spring before.

“Denise wanted a business that we could do together that didn’t involve dirt [construction],” Dan said. “It was something to do together, and it immediately kept us apart.”

Dan explained that he had to commute to his construction business every two weeks for 12 years. However, now that he’s retired from construction, Dan can focus on building his business at the Crane Hot Springs full time.

He also has more time to spend with his family. The Krygers’ ultimate goal has always been to create a family business that their children could be involved with, if they chose to pursue that path.

“We wanted to keep all the family members involved — to have a family business where our family can work together, rather than be spread out all over the country,” Dan said.

That mission was accomplished. The Krygers’ children, Debbie and Dwain, now help operate Crane Hot Springs.

“Working with family can have its own set of challenges,” Debbie said. “However, I wouldn’t trade anything for it. I feel like I have a unique opportunity to learn from the people I admire the most.”

Dwain added, “I really appreciate what my folks have done with the hot springs and the future they’ve made for me and my family.”

With a strong sense of family and an eye toward the future, the Krygers are ready to continue catering to guests, from both near and far.

Denise said the business’ primary focus is meeting guests’ needs and providing unique experiences.

Dan added, “We don’t like to turn people away, as they’re the driving force to expand.”

The Krygers acknowledge that they could not have sustained and grown their hot springs resort without the support of the Harney County community. To say thank you, they are celebrating their 25th anniversary by offering a special for all Harney County residents. Residents will receive 75 percent off day use of the pond. That’s only $2.50 per person for up to four hours of soaking. This offer is valid for the months of December and January.

Day use hours for Crane Hot Springs are from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The hot springs will close at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve and will be closed all Christmas Day.