Oregon is a state blessed with natural beauty and diversity, from its rugged coastline to its snow-capped mountains, from its lush forests to its high desert. One of the most amazing features of Oregon’s landscape is its abundance of hot springs, which are heated by the geothermal activity of the volcanic Cascade Range. Hot springs are not only relaxing and rejuvenating, but also offer health benefits such as improved blood circulation, reduced stress, and relief from muscle pain. Whether you are looking for a rustic and secluded experience or a luxurious and pampered one, there is a hot spring in Oregon for you. Here are some of the best hot springs in Oregon, along with some tips on how to enjoy them responsibly and respectfully.
Public Hot Springs
Public hot springs are usually free or low-cost, and are maintained by volunteers or users. They are often located in remote or wilderness areas, and require some hiking or driving to access. They tend to have a natural and rustic feel, with simple wooden tubs or rock pools. Some public hot springs are clothing optional, so be prepared to encounter some nudity. Public hot springs are also subject to vandalism, littering, and overcrowding, so it is important to practice stewardship and leave no trace principles when visiting them. Here are some of the most popular public hot springs in Oregon:
| Name | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Umpqua Hot Springs | Umpqua National Forest | A series of three mineral pools perched on a cliff overlooking the North Umpqua River. The pools vary in temperature from 100°F to 108°F, and have stunning views of the surrounding forest and mountains. The hot springs are accessible by a 0.3-mile hike from a parking lot. Clothing is optional. |
| Bagby Hot Springs | Mount Hood National Forest | A historic hot springs site with three bathhouses and several wooden soaking tubs. The tubs are filled with hot water from a nearby spring through hollowed-out cedar logs. The water temperature can be adjusted by adding cold water from a faucet. The hot springs are accessible by a 1.5-mile hike from a parking lot. Clothing is optional. |
| Terwilliger (Cougar) Hot Springs | Willamette National Forest | A beautiful hot springs complex with six cascading pools along Rider Creek. The pools range in temperature from 85°F to 112°F, and have smooth rock bottoms and edges. The hot springs are surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees, creating a serene and secluded atmosphere. The hot springs are accessible by a 0.25-mile hike from a parking lot. Clothing is optional. |
| Paulina Hot Springs | Newberry National Volcanic Monument | A natural hot springs pool on the shore of Paulina Lake, one of the two crater lakes within the Newberry Caldera. The pool is formed by mixing the hot water from the spring with the cold water from the lake, creating a comfortable soaking temperature of around 100°F. The pool is large enough to accommodate several people, and has a sandy bottom and a rocky edge. The hot springs offer scenic views of the lake and the caldera rim. The hot springs are accessible by a 0.5-mile hike from a parking lot or campground. Clothing is optional. |
Private Hot Springs
Private hot springs are usually commercialized and located on private land. They typically charge a day-use fee or require lodging reservation to access. They often have man-made pools or bathhouses that are well-maintained and clean. They may also offer other amenities such as showers, restrooms, stores, restaurants, spas, or camping facilities. They tend to be more family-friendly and less crowded than public hot springs, but also less natural and authentic. Here are some of the best private hot springs in Oregon:
| Name | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Belknap Hot Springs | Willamette National Forest | A resort-style hot springs with two tiled pools fed by a mineral spring on the bank of the McKenzie River. The pools have a constant temperature of 104°F, and have decks and chairs for lounging. The resort also has gardens, lodge rooms, cabins, RV sites, campsites, showers, restrooms, store, restaurant, and conference center. The resort is open year-round, but only guests can use both pools during peak season (May-October). Swimsuits are required. |
| Breitenbush Hot Springs | Willamette National Forest | A holistic retreat center with three natural hot springs pools, a steam sauna, and a cold plunge pool on the edge of the Breitenbush River. The pools have temperatures ranging from 98°F to 106°F, and have river rock rims and gravel bottoms. The center also offers lodging in cabins or dorms, vegetarian meals, yoga classes, massage therapy, workshops, and events. The center is open year-round, but requires reservation for both day use and overnight stay. Clothing is optional. |
| Alvord Hot Springs | Harney County | A remote and rustic hot springs with two concrete pools on the edge of the Alvord Desert, a dry lake bed at the foot of the Steens Mountain. The pools have temperatures ranging from 100°F to 113°F, and have stunning views of the desert and the mountain. The hot springs also have a bathhouse, showers, restrooms, store, and campground. The hot springs are open year-round, and charge a small fee for day use or camping. Clothing is optional. |
| Crane Hot Springs | Harney County | A historic and tranquil hot springs with a large soaking pool, five private bathhouses, and several hot tubs on a 160-acre property. The pool and the bathhouses have temperatures ranging from 92°F to 104°F, and are filled with mineral water from a geothermal well. The property also has a hotel, cabins, RV sites, campsites, showers, restrooms, laundry, and store. The property is open year-round, and requires reservation for lodging or camping. Swimsuits are required. |
Tips for Visiting Hot Springs in Oregon
Hot springs are wonderful places to relax and enjoy nature, but they also come with some risks and responsibilities. Here are some tips to make your hot springs experience safe and enjoyable:
- Check the weather and road conditions before you go, especially in winter or remote areas. Some hot springs may be inaccessible or closed due to snow, ice, mud, or floods.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as soaking in hot water can dehydrate you and make you hungry. Avoid alcohol and drugs, as they can impair your judgment and increase your risk of dehydration, overheating, or drowning.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the hike or drive to the hot springs. Some trails may be steep, rocky, muddy, or slippery. Some roads may be unpaved, narrow, or rough.
- Respect the rules and etiquette of the hot springs you visit. Some may require swimsuits, while others may allow nudity. Some may allow pets, while others may not. Some may have quiet hours, while others may allow music. Always follow the signs and instructions posted at the site or provided by the staff.
- Be courteous and considerate of other users. Share the space and the water with others. Don’t hog a pool or a tub for too long. Don’t splash or make loud noises. Don’t leave behind any trash or belongings.
- Be aware of the potential hazards of hot springs. Some may have high temperatures that can cause burns or heat exhaustion. Some may have bacteria or parasites that can cause infections or illnesses. Some may have slippery surfaces that can cause falls or injuries.
- To avoid these risks, test the water temperature before you enter. Don’t soak for more than 15 minutes at a time. Don’t submerge your head or drink the water. Rinse off before and after soaking. Use caution when entering or exiting the pools or tubs.
Hot springs in Oregon are a great way to experience the natural beauty and diversity of the state. Whether you prefer a public or a private hot spring, a rustic or a luxurious one, a secluded or a popular one, you will find a hot spring in Oregon that suits your taste and budget. Just remember to be safe and respectful when you visit them, and enjoy the soothing and healing benefits of these natural wonders.
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FAQs
- Does Oregon have any hot springs? Yes, Oregon has many hot springs across the state, thanks to its volcanic activity. Some of the hot springs are natural and undeveloped, while others are part of resorts or retreats that offer amenities and services. You can find hot springs in various regions of Oregon, such as the Cascade Mountains, the Willamette Valley, the High Desert, and the Coast Range1.
- What are the names of the hot springs in Oregon? There are over 100 hot springs in Oregon, but some of the most popular and accessible ones are:
- Bagby Hot Springs: A public hot spring with wooden soaking tubs in the Mount Hood National Forest2.
- Breitenbush Hot Springs: A private hot spring and retreat center with three natural pools, a steam sauna, and a cold plunge in the Mount Hood National Forest3.
- Belknap Hot Springs: A private hot spring and resort with two tiled pools, gardens, and lodging options on the McKenzie River3.
- Cougar Hot Springs: A public hot spring with five cascading pools in the Willamette National Forest1.
- Umpqua Hot Springs: A public hot spring with three cliffside pools overlooking the North Umpqua River in the Umpqua National Forest1.
- Summer Lake Hot Springs: A private hot spring with four surface sources and a rustic lodge on the edge of Summer Lake in south-central Oregon4.
- Crane Hot Springs: A private hot spring with a large pond and various accommodations near Burns in eastern Oregon5.
- Bigelow Hot Springs: A public hot spring with a small pool next to the McKenzie River near Blue River in western Oregon1.
- Paulina Lake Hot Springs: A public hot spring with several sandy pools on the shore of Paulina Lake in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument near Bend in central Oregon1.
- Does Warm Springs Oregon have hot springs? Yes, Warm Springs is a town in central Oregon that is named after the natural hot springs on its reservation. The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs own and operate the Kah-Nee-Ta Resort, which features a large mineral pool fed by the hot springs, as well as a spa, a golf course, and other amenities.
- Can you swim in Warm Springs Oregon? Yes, you can swim in the mineral pool at the Kah-Nee-Ta Resort, which is open to both guests and day visitors. The pool is heated by the natural hot springs and has a temperature of about 96°F (36°C). The pool also has a waterslide, a diving board, and a children’s wading area.
