Oregon's Geothermal Nirvana: A Guide to Soaking in the Soul of the Pacific Northwest
Oregon, a land of emerald forests, rugged coastlines, and snow-capped peaks, holds a hidden treasure: a network of natural hot springs bubbling up from the heart of the earth. These geothermal havens offer a unique blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and immersion in the region's rich geological history.
The story of Oregon's hot springs is woven into the fabric of history. Native American tribes like the Paiute and Klamath used the springs for healing rituals and spiritual ceremonies. European settlers, drawn by rumors of their therapeutic properties, established resorts and spa towns in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, these historical remnants like Belknap Hot Springs and Kah-Nee-Ta Resort offer a glimpse into the golden age of Californian spa culture.
But with over 50 hot springs scattered across the state, navigating this watery wonderland can be daunting.
Top Tips
Seek the solitude: Escape the crowds at popular spots like Bagby Hot Springs and head to hidden gems like Deer Creek Hot Springs (Bigelow) or McCredie Hot Springs.
Embrace the rustic: Many natural hot springs are nestled in remote locations. Be prepared for unpaved roads, minimal amenities, and a chance encounter with wildlife like deer or even elk.
Pack for adventure: Bring sturdy shoes for hikes, a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Some springs require specific attire like wool blankets for communal soaking.
Respect the rules: Always check local regulations and follow signage. Some springs have limitations on group size, alcohol consumption, and clothing.
Leave no trace: Pack out all trash and avoid using soap or shampoo in the springs. Preserve the natural beauty for future generations.
For the Adventurous: Hike through lush forests and volcanic terrain to reach Deer Creek Hot Springs (Bigelow) or soak in the hidden wonder of Crystal Crane Hot Springs in the heart of Harney County.
For the History Buff: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Belknap Hot Springs, a resort dating back to the early 20th century, or visit Kah-Nee-Ta Resort, once a cherished hideaway for Hollywood stars.
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers its own unique charm at Oregon's hot springs:
Spring and fall: Enjoy mild temperatures and vibrant landscapes with fewer crowds.
Summer: Escape the summer heat and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of popular resorts. Be prepared for larger crowds.
Winter: Experience the magic of soaking in steaming pools amidst snow-covered mountains at higher-altitude springs like Paulina Lake Hot Springs.
Health Benefits
Oregon's hot springs are as diverse in their mineral content as they are in their settings. Here's a glimpse into the magic of their waters:
Sulfur: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, sulfur-rich springs like Umpqua Hot Springs and Breitenbush Hot Springs can be beneficial for joint pain and skin conditions.
Magnesium: This "relaxation mineral" found in springs like Belknap Hot Springs and Summer Lake Hot Springs can ease muscle tension and promote stress relief.
Silica: The smooth, silky feeling of some springs like Bagby Hot Springs comes from silica, which is beneficial for skin health and hair growth.
Lithium: Trace amounts of lithium in springs like Crystal Crane Hot Springs can have mood-boosting and stress-reducing effects.
Beyond these main minerals, many springs contain trace amounts of calcium, iron, manganese, and other elements, each contributing to the unique properties and potential benefits of the water.
With so many options to choose from, here are a few highlights to spark your geothermal adventure:
Umpqua Hot Springs
Multiple hot springs pools are perched underneath a forested canopy overlooking the North Umpqua River in Southern Oregon. “Umpqua” is a local Native word for “dancing water.”
A day pass is $5, and there’s a steep 0.4-mile (0.6-kilometer) hike to the hot springs. Parking in the approved area is limited (approximately 10 vehicles). Be prepared to park outside the closure area and hike in.
Note it is clothing optional.
There are multiple cascading pools, including one with a wooden shelter. These hot springs are some of the warmest in the state, going up to 115°F (46.1°C).
From November through April Forest Service Road 3401 is typically closed due to bad weather and poor road conditions. This does not mean that Umpqua Hot Springs is closed, it does however mean that you will need to hike, snowshoe or ski an additional 2.5 miles to reach the hot pools from where Forest Road 3401 is gated, which is located just past the junction of Forest Road 34 and 3401.
Camping is not permitted at Umpqua Hot Springs, but you can stay at the nearest campground, Toketee Lake Campground, which is only 3 miles, or an 8-minute drive, from the trailhead for Umpqua Hot Springs.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean and clear, with a faint sulfur aroma.
Ease of Access: 4 stars - Paved road and moderate walk to the pools.
Ability to Be Alone: 3 stars - Multiple pools with varying degrees of privacy, depending on time of day.
Water Temperature: 5 stars - Offers a range of temperatures, from warm to comfortably hot.
Health Benefits: 4 stars - Rich in magnesium, promoting relaxation and muscle tension relief.
Nearby Amenities: 4 stars - Camping, cabins, and basic facilities available.
Bagby Hot Springs
The springs were found in 1880 by an early hunter and prospector named Bob Bagby. In 1913 Phil Putz, a Forest Service Guard, built a cabin and a small fire crew stayed there during the summer months.
Bagby Hot Springs is a natural hot springs located in the Mount Hood National Forest, about 67 miles southeast of Portland, Oregon. It is accessible via a 1.4-mile hike from the trailhead.
There is a recreation fee pass required for parking at the trailhead, costing $5 per car per day or $30 for a season pass.
The lower bathhouse contains three log tubs and one 6-foot round tub in a community setting. The upper bathhouse contains one 6-ft. round tub on an open deck. Please empty your tub and fill it half full so that the water will cool for the next bather. Three major springs and several minor seeps are found at Bagby. The large bathhouse spring flows 24 gallons per minute at 138 degrees F.
The Forest Service asks folks to keep. their clothes on, pack their trash out and remember there’s no cell service.
Chemical analysis by the U.S National Geodetic Survey indicates the following composition (in parts per million):
Silica 80.0
Sodium 51.0
Sulfate 45.0
Carbonate 36.0
Chloride 13.0
Calcium 3.4
Hydroxide 1.0
Potassium 1.0
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean with a distinct sulfur smell, beneficial for skin conditions.
Ease of Access: 2 stars - Requires a challenging 4-mile hike.
Ability to Be Alone: 5 stars - Secluded location with multiple private soaking pools.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Comfortably hot, perfect for extended soaking.
Health Benefits: 5 stars - Sulfur-rich water offers potential benefits for joint pain and skin conditions.
Nearby Amenities: 1 star - Remote location, self-sufficiency required.
Breitenbush Hot Springs
Nestled in the northern tip of the Willamette National Forest, about sixty miles east of Salem, Breitenbush Hot Springs is one of the oldest recreational areas in Oregon. Breitenbush Hot Springs resort offers hot and cold soaking pools, a sauna, vegetarian meals, well-being classes, massage, a meditation labryinth, fire-circle and gift shop at their off-grid, riverside forest lodge.
Breitenbush is the largest thermal spring area in the Oregon Cascades. Every condition known to promote the emergence of hot springs exists here: subduction zone, volcano, glaciers, permeable rock, deeply incised intersection between volcanic ranges, watershed apex, floodplain and adjacent quaternary formation converge in this idyllic land nestled in a curve of the Breitenbush River.
There are three natural pools lined with smooth river rocks. One of these is designated as a “silent” pool for quiet, contemplative soaking. It overlooks the river below. The other two allow for conversation. Enjoy the dissolved minerals and the calcium, potassium, sodium, and magnesium in the springs.
Reservation-only day use and overnight stays, including workshops and special events, can be booked online. Clothing is optional in soaking areas; you may soak nude or in a swimsuit.
Breitenbush Hot Springs, located on the side of Mt. Jefferson has been a meeting place for multiple tribes since time immemorial. Before colonization forced the removal of tribal peoples to reservations, the springs were utilized by indigenous tribes whose unceded land spans present day Washington, Oregon and Idaho. These include the Kalapuya (Cal-a-poo-ya) and Molalla (Mo-lah-lah) speaking peoples from the west side of the Cascades Mountains, also the Chinookan (Shi-newk-un) and Sahaptin (Sa-hawp-tin) speaking peoples from the east side of the mountains. One name for these springs was Altat Satash, and the mountain was called Seekseekqua or Kuassal Teminbi.
The hot springs is sustainable and off the grid. The small hydroelectric plant—powered by the Breitenbush River—produces about 40 kilowatts, the amount of electricity typically used in three urban homes. And yet it can support a community of up to 85 full time residents and up to 250 guests. By sharing kitchens, conducting electricity audits and avoiding power-hungry appliances like clothes dryers, the community is able to live within energy limits. Today, over 100 buildings are kept cozy year-round, making Breitenbush the largest privately-owned geothermal facility in the Pacific Northwest.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean and clear, with a variety of mineral compositions depending on the pool.
Ease of Access: 5 stars - Easy access within the resort grounds.
Ability to Be Alone: 2 stars - Lively atmosphere with communal pools, limited privacy.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Multiple pools with varying temperatures.
Health Benefits: 3 stars - Diverse mineral content, offering potential benefits for various ailments.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars - Luxurious spa services, restaurants, and lodging options within walking distance.
McCredie Hot Springs
McCredie Hot Springs is well-known and loved for easy access and a short distance from Eugene, just about one hour via Oregon Route 58. The McCredie Hot Springs are easily accessible from the road with paved parking. Several extremely hot (please use caution) pools border the cold and fast-flowing Salt Creek, a Willamette River tributary.
While the largest pool is approximately 30 feet wide and 2 feet deep, the smallest is just 3 feet across. Clothing is not required.
while there, the Willamette National Forest is full of trails, and I often hit one before soaking. The surrounding area is lush and offers fantastic hiking opportunities with beautiful scenery. The Oakridge area is known as the Mountain Biking Capital of the Northwest.
Stay nearby at the Westfir Lodge & Mountain Market with a family-friendly restaurant serves local cuisine for lunch and cocktails, outdoor firepit, and playground.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean and clear, with a slight sulfur aroma.
Ease of Access: 3 stars - Moderate hike through the forest.
Ability to Be Alone: 5 stars - Private soaking tubs nestled amidst the wilderness.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Comfortably hot, with adjustable temperature in some tubs.
Health Benefits: 4 stars - Rich in magnesium, promoting relaxation and stress relief.
Nearby Amenities: 2 stars - Limited to basic facilities, focus on the natural setting.
Paulina Lake Hot Springs
During the summer, these undeveloped hot springs, tucked into the Newberry Caldera, part of Newberry National Volcanic Monument, are most accessible. This volcanic wonder is roughly 25 miles south of Bend and offers a hidden gem for adventurous souls and families seeking a soak in nature’s hot tub.
During summer, they're only a short obsidian-lined hike or lake paddle away. Winter brings unplowed roads and even road closures to the Caldera, though it can be accessed by snowmobile or nordic skis. In winter, they're accessible via snowmobile excursion (embarking from a nearby sno-park), requiring a snowshoe trek at the end to access the springs.
The number of pools can vary from two to five, depending on the water level. Temperatures also fluctuate seasonally, ranging from comfortably warm 90 degrees to pleasantly hot 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass will grant you access to the day use area. Day passes are $5, and annual passes are $30.
Hiking in? Begin the relatively flat hike from the parking area by going east to Little Crater Campground, following the signs. Walk along the campground road for about 0.7 miles until you come to a spot with wooden benches and a sign that tells you you’re at the start of the Paulina Lakeshore Loop Trail. Keep going on this trail along the lake for 1.4 miles. Take in beautiful views of the lake’s blue water and the thick pine trees around it, including an area covered in shiny black obsidian rock. When the trail veers away from the lake and into the trees, look for a path on your left with a sign for hot springs about 1.3 miles in. Turn onto this path and follow it back to the lake.
Like Boats? You can find boat ramps and docks at Little Crater Campground on the east side and Paulina Lake Campground on the west side. Keep in mind there is no dock or place to launch right at the hot springs, so make sure you have a plan for anchoring and getting off your watercraft.
Be advised that the only restroom is at the trailhead, so plan accordingly. Since we’re all about respecting this beautiful environment, if nature calls, bury your waste 6-8 inches deep, at least 200 feet (or 75 giant steps!) away from the water source.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Naturally heated lake water, clean and refreshing.
Ease of Access: 3 stars - Requires a moderate hike and boat ride.
Ability to Be Alone: 4 stars - Spacious pools with secluded areas for quiet soaking.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Warm and comfortable, perfect for enjoying the scenery.
Health Benefits: 3 stars - Balanced mineral content, offering general relaxation benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 2 stars - Limited facilities, bring your own supplies.
Summer Lake Hot Springs
Summer Lake Hot Springs is a hidden gem located in the Oregon Outback, just two hours southeast of Bend.
Archeologists from the University of Oregon made international news in 2002 when they discovered human DNA at the nearby Paisley Caves dating to 14,300 years old. The land was called Medicine Springs by natives and became common ground, an agreed upon place of peace between tribes.
The pools include a large indoor pool (98 F), along with outdoor rock pools (104 F). Summer Lake Hot Springs offers day use for non guests. Summer Lake is open 24 hours a day for soaking. Guests with accommodations have all access to the hot springs. The hot springs bathhouse has a bathroom, changing rooms and showers. Summer is pet friendly. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times in resort area. Stay over at one of 10 cozy, geo-thermally heated cabins.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Naturally heated lake water, clean and refreshing.
Ease of Access: 3 stars - Two hours southeast of Bend, Oregon. No day use.
Ability to Be Alone: 4 stars - Spacious pools with secluded areas for quiet soaking.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Large indoor pool (98 F), along with outdoor rock pools (104 F)
Health Benefits: 5 stars - Balanced mineral content, offering general relaxation benefits.
Sodium 399 ppm
Potassium 374 ppm
Chloride 285 ppm
Sulfate 111 ppm
Silica 96 ppm
Flouride 2.2 ppm
Calcium 1.0 ppm
Boran 1.0 ppm
Borate 1.0 ppm
Magnesium .4 ppm
Nearby Amenities: 4 stars - twelve unique dwellings, along with RV slips with full hookups and a five-acre open dry camping area. Ancient historical grounds with nearby petroglyphs, bird sanctuary and archeological sites.
