10 Best Hot Springs in Oregon to Check Out
Oregon’s hot springs provide the perfect way to unwind and connect with nature. These geothermal gems are easy to access, safe, and ideal for a relaxing experience. Here’s a list of 10 of the best hot springs in Oregon:
- Bagby Hot Springs
- Umpqua Hot Springs
- Belknap Hot Springs
- Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs
- Paulina Lake Hot Springs
- Cougar (Terwilliger) Hot Springs
- Austin Hot Springs
- Alvord Hot Springs
- Willow Creek Hot Springs
- Crystal Crane Hot Springs
1. Bagby Hot Springs:
- Location: 45 miles southeast of Estacada, within Mount Hood National Forest.
- Cost: $5 per person for access.
- Best Times to Go: Late spring through early fall for pleasant weather, though accessible year-round.
Nestled in a lush forest, Bagby Hot Springs features wooden soaking tubs in a rustic setting. A 1.5-mile hike brings you to these springs, offering privacy with individual tubs and a calming forest atmosphere.
2. Umpqua Hot Springs:
- Location: Near Toketee Falls, off Highway 138 in the Umpqua National Forest.
- Cost: $5 per vehicle for a day-use permit.
- Best Times to Go: Spring and fall for moderate crowds; early morning for quieter soaks.
Perched on a hillside with panoramic forest views, Umpqua Hot Springs offers multiple soaking pools with varying temperatures. The short but steep trail to the springs is well-maintained and worth the effort.
3. Belknap Hot Springs:
- Location: Along the McKenzie River, off Highway 126.
- Cost: $9–$15 for day use, free for lodge guests.
- Best Times to Go: Summer and fall, when the gardens and surrounding trails are vibrant.
Part of the Belknap Hot Springs Lodge and Gardens, this resort offers two man-made pools filled with natural hot spring water. Enjoy a comfortable soak surrounded by manicured gardens and river views.
4. Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs:
- Location: On the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, 11 miles east of Simnasho.
- Cost: Varies; check resort fees.
- Best Times to Go: Spring through fall for the best weather and amenities.
Recently reopened, this family-friendly resort features geothermal pools, water slides, and cultural experiences. It’s an excellent destination for both relaxation and adventure.
5. Paulina Lake Hot Springs:
- Location: Near Paulina Lake in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, south of Bend.
- Cost: $5 vehicle fee for the park.
- Best Times to Go: Late spring to early fall for comfortable access.
Located along the shoreline of Paulina Lake, these hot springs are accessible via a short hike. Dig your own soaking spot in the sand and enjoy stunning lake views while relaxing in warm geothermal water.
6. Cougar (Terwilliger) Hot Springs:
- Location: Off Highway 126, near Blue River.
- Cost: $7 per person for day use.
- Best Times to Go: Weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds.
Set in a serene forest setting, these tiered pools cascade down a hillside, each with slightly different temperatures. The atmosphere is peaceful and ideal for unwinding amidst nature.
7. Austin Hot Springs:
- Location: Along the Clackamas River, off Highway 224 near Estacada.
- Cost: Free.
- Best Times to Go: Summer and early fall when water levels are lower.
Austin Hot Springs is a natural geothermal site with pools along the riverbank. Though undeveloped, the springs are easy to access and offer a true wilderness experience. Test water temperatures carefully before soaking.
8. Alvord Hot Springs:
- Location: East of Steens Mountain, near Fields.
- Cost: $8 per person for day use.
- Best Times to Go: Spring and fall for mild weather.
Set in the remote high desert of Eastern Oregon, these springs offer soaking pools with incredible views of Steens Mountain. The rustic setting adds to the charm, making it a favorite for those seeking solitude.
9. Willow Creek Hot Springs:
- Location: Near Fields in southeastern Oregon.
- Cost: Free.
- Best Times to Go: Late spring and fall for pleasant temperatures.
Tucked away in Oregon’s desert landscape, this secluded hot spring features a natural pool surrounded by sagebrush and wide-open skies. It’s the perfect spot for stargazing while soaking.
10. Crystal Crane Hot Springs:
- Location: Near Burns, off Highway 78.
- Cost: $10–$15 for day use, varies for private tubs or lodging.
- Best Times to Go: Year-round; winter is especially magical for the contrast of cold air and hot water.
A developed hot spring resort, Crystal Crane offers a large outdoor soaking pond and private tubs. The peaceful desert setting makes it an ideal getaway for couples and families alike.
Whether you’re looking for a resort experience or a more natural soak, these Oregon hot springs offer a range of options for safe and easy relaxation. Pack your swimsuit, respect the environment, and enjoy the therapeutic waters of the Pacific Northwest!
