7 Best Hot Springs in Oregon

Anywhere where hot water bubbles up from the ground is a special place, so it’s understandable that people want to capitalize on it, building cush resorts around the hallowed waters for people to stay and soak in the luxury. But part of what makes the hot springs in Oregon stand out is the fact that several are completely undeveloped. Primitive pools set deep in the woods and only accessible by foot are just as common as developed hot spring resorts outfitted with geothermally heated cabins and accommodations featuring private soaking tubs. 

No matter your soaking style, we’ve got you covered with a list of Oregon's best hot springs. In addition to a handful of built-out spots that welcome overnight guests, we’ve included a few rustic options that require a little extra effort to reach. Either way, you’ll be relaxing in geothermal waters heated by the Earth's crust — how cool is that?

Umpqua Hot Springs

It doesn’t get more relaxing than a visit to Umpqua Hot Springs, set along the North Umpqua River in Umpqua National Forest. The three terraced pools are tucked in a travertine cliff face over a spring that fluctuates between 100 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit. In exchange for letting you soak in nature (sans swimsuit, if you wish), you’ll have to make the 0.3-mile hike to the springs. 

Summer Lake Hot Springs

Two hours southeast of Bend lies this secluded, rustic resort that just so happens to be perched on a geothermal water source. Summer Lake Hot Springs has a large indoor pool set inside a 1920 bathhouse, but the real draw is the outdoor rock pools, which provide 360-degree views. Day use of the springs is not allowed, so you’ll want to cozy up in one of their geothermally heated cabins, the three-bedroom cottage, or nab one of their RV and tent sites. Either way, make sure to look up once the sun sets — the stargazing is otherworldly.

Terwilliger Hot Springs

Terwilliger Hot Springs, also known as Cougar Hot Springs, is a series of four clothing-optional pools set deep in the Oregon woods. In order to reach the pools, which are also fed by a waterfall, you’ll have to tackle the quarter-mile trail from the parking lot. The hike is well worth the effort, though, especially if you happen to nab a spot in the upper pool, which is a balmy 112 degrees Fahrenheit.

Breitenbush Hot Springs 

The setting at Breitenbush Hot Springs is so magical, it’s become a well-recognized retreat that provides respite from everyday life. There is day-use access to the springs, but you won’t want to miss a night in the property’s standout lodging, which includes yurts, glamping tents, and the hobbit-style Forest Shelter — the latter made of wood and stone and nestled along the river. The hot springs themselves are otherworldly — the rock-lined Meadow Pools have mountain views and the smaller Spiral Tubs feature a neighboring cold plunge.

Paulina Lake Hot Springs

One of Oregon’s most unique hot springs is the series of primitive pools set along Paulina Lake in the Deschutes National Forest. The springs, which include five geothermal pools situated on the lake’s sandy banks, tend to fluctuate between 90 and 115 degree Fahrenheit, depending on the season. To reach the springs, you’ll need to walk the 1.2-mile trail along the shores of Paulina Lake. Keep in mind the area often closes in the winter.

Crystal Crane Hot Springs

Unlike many of the other destinations on this list, Crystal Crane Hot Springs in Burns, Oregon, has an expansive outdoor pond that can accommodate multiple groups at once. If a small, private pool is more your speed, visit the private bathhouses or book an overnight stay in one of the many accommodations, from an adult-only suite with a private back patio for soaking to a tent featuring a two-person soaking tub.

Alvord Hot Springs

Alvord Hot Springs in southeastern Oregon consists of two concrete pools that are fed by hot water bubbling out of the ground at a whopping 170 degrees (don’t worry, the water cools off by the time it reaches your pool). Day visitors are welcome, but overnight guests get the added perk of pool access at any hour. You can either book a campsite or a night in one of the rustic bunkhouses — both come with endless soaking.