A Steamy Treasure Guide: Oregon’s Top Hot Springs You Can Visit Year-Round

There’s something magical about the great outdoors of Oregon, and in the heart of all this beauty, nestled amidst verdant forests and towering peaks, you’ll find natural hot springs bubbling with warmth. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a lover of all things cozy, these geothermal gems are perfectly suited for rejuvenation any time of the year. Here are the top 10 hot springs in Oregon to explore, from the wild unspoiled pools to the more comfortably accessible spots.

1. Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat and Conference Center

Just outside of Detroit you’ll find Breitenbush. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill hot spring. It serves as a holistic wellness retreat providing cabins, vegetarian meals, and an array of workshops. If you’re seeking solace, slip into one of the stone-lined soaking pools, each offering different temperatures, perfect for any weather. It’s advisable to reserve your day visit in advance to ensure availability.

2. Umpqua Hot Springs

Cloaked in a thick forest canopy near the North Umpqua River, this is a beloved gem in Douglas County. There are several pools, with the one nestled in a cave-like alcove being a crowd favorite. To preserve the area, the Forest Service has prohibited overnight camping near the springs, but plenty of national forest campgrounds are available nearby.

3. Terwilliger (Cougar) Hot Springs

Located an hour from Eugene in the Willamette National Forest, Terwilliger boasts six soaking pools arranged in a stair-step layout. After a short hike from the parking lot, you’re rewarded with a soak while listening to the whisper of wind through towering pines. Remember to bring cash for the parking fee, and prepare to walk barefoot; shoes aren’t permitted near the pools.

4. Bagby Hot Springs

Deep in the Mount Hood National Forest, Bagby is a true backcountry experience. A 1.5-mile hike through the mossy wonderland takes you to the bathhouse. Here, old hollowed-out logs serve as individual or shared soaking tubs, providing a unique soak amid the quiet Oregon woodland. Remember to bring a bathing suit as required by the Forest Service.

5. Alvord Hot Springs

Alvord is a desert oasis located near Steens Mountain, by the vast Alvord Desert. Its two concrete pools offer a stunning juxtaposition to the arid sagebrush surroundings. Enjoy soaking year-round in this remote and rustic hot spring. Make sure to stop at The Fields Station for their famous Fields Burger on your way in or out.

6. Mickey Hot Springs

A bit of a drive from most of Oregon’s major cities, Mickey Hot Springs packs a punch in the Alvord Desert. It’s hot—literally. It sports boiling pools and steaming fumaroles. Don’t dip in here, it’s too hot, but definitely worth a visit for the boiling mud pots and geothermal activity. Just remember, stay on designated paths for your safety.

7. Crystal Crane Hot Springs

Located in Burns, this springs offers both public and private soaking options. It’s renowned for its large outdoor pond, where you can observe a star-studded sky while floating in the warm water. If you prefer some privacy, rent one of the private soaking tubs available 24/7. Staying overnight? They have cozy cabins or you can park an RV.

8. Belknap Hot Springs

Located directly on the McKenzie River, Belknap Hot Springs has two pools and offers both day-use or overnight lodging. Spend your day luxuriating in the pool and then take a leisurely stroll in their beautiful secret garden. It’s also a short drive from there to Proxy Falls, which is absolutely worth visiting.

9. Deer Creek (Bigelow) Hot Springs

If you have an adventurous spirit, Deer Creek can be your perfect destination. Located off the McKenzie Highway, it’s a small but enchanting natural pool at the edge of Deer Creek. Best to visit in the summer or early fall, as access can be challenging during winter. Also, the highway is quite close by, be prepared for occasional traffic noise.

10. Snively Hot Springs

A lesser-known spot, Snively Hot Springs in Vale is where the locals love to lounge. It boasts an open-air platform bordering the Owyhee River. As the waters fluctuate with the season, temperatures can vary, so dip your toe to test before plunging in. And since it’s free and open 24/7, feel free to soak under the stars.

So there you have it, dear explorer – an insider’s guide to Oregon’s steamy delights. Armed with this list, you’re ready to conquer the heat, beat the chill, and truly immerse yourself in the soothing pulse of Oregon’s heartland. Happy soaking!