Soaking Up Oregon: Top Ten Hot Springs to Visit Year-Round
Rain-soaked forests, snow-kissed mountains, cascading waterfalls – Oregon is a place of astounding natural beauty. One of the state’s lesser-known treasures, though, is its stunning collection of hot springs. Perfect for sinking into after a long coastal hike or on a crisp Bend evening, they offer year-round enjoyment. Here’s the soaky skinny on Oregon’s top ten hot springs fellow Oregonians can soak in anytime.1. Bagby Hot Springs
Nestled within the Clackamas River Valley, Bagby Hot Springs is less than a two-hour drive from downtown Portland. With wooden bathhouses over the natural springs, there’s something endearingly rustic about a soak at Bagby. Be warned though, weekends can get busy! If you can, time your visit midweek for a more serene experience.2. Umpqua Hot Springs
Perched above the North Umpqua River in Douglas County, soaking in Umpqua’s mineral-rich waters, while watching clouds slowly drift across the river canyon, is the stuff of Oregon dreams. The main pool is covered, offering shelter from rain and the rare occasion of too much sun. The path here follows the beautiful North Umpqua Trail, so bring your hiking boots for a little pre-soak adventure.3. Cougar Hot Springs
Also known as Terwilliger Hot Springs, these secluded pools are a brief stroll away from Cougar Reservoir in the Willamette National Forest. Each of the five soaking pools here vary in temperature, letting you find your perfect soaking sweet spot. Remember to bring cash for the day-use fee!
4. Breitenbush Hot Springs
Tucked away near Detroit, Breitenbush isn’t just a hot springs – it’s a holistic retreat center offering yoga, meditation, and wellness workshops. They have guest cabins if you decide one day in this tranquil spot isn’t enough. Be sure to book ahead for both day-use and overnight stays.5. Bigelow Hot Springs
Hidden in the Willamette National Forest, Bigelow (or Deer Creek Hot Springs) is a scenic gem. This one-person pool overlooks beautiful Deer Creek. Arrive early or visit during the week; due to its smaller size, you’ll want to beat the crowd.6. Alvord Hot Springs
In southeast Oregon, a trip to Alvord Hot Springs marries well with a visit to the stunningly desolate Alvord Desert. The privately-owned baths require an entry fee, but the immaculate amenities and serene high desert surroundings are worth every penny.7. McCredie Hot Springs
Located near the charming town of Oakridge, McCredie offers multiple pools along Salt Creek in the Willamette National Forest. They’re wonderfully accessible – perfect for those who aren’t up for a forest trek before their soak. The waters are toasty, so be prepared for a real warm soak!8. Paulina Lake Hot Springs
In the recesses of Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Paulina Lake hosts some lovely hot springs. An easy hike from the Paulina Lake campground, these lakeside springs are a local favorite. Remember to respect the local environment – it’s what makes our state so wonderful!9. Mickey Hot Springs
More of an attraction than a place for a good dunk (it’s too hot to soak safely), Mickey Springs is located in the Alvord Desert. With boiling mud pots and fumaroles, the geothermal activity here is comparable to Yellowstone! Visit for a show of Mother Nature’s fiery side.10. Snyder Hot Springs
An earthly haven tucked away within the Malheur National Forest, Snyder Hot Springs is a step back into Oregon’s wild past. While getting here involves a hearty drive along gravel roads, your reward is a hot soak in an untouched corner of the state.Oregon sure knows how to do hot springs right, doesn’t she? Each of these spots offers a unique soak amid incredible Oregonian scenery. A gentle reminder though, please respect these natural havens and leave no trace behind. Now all that’s left to decide is, where are you soaking first?