The 10 Most Relaxing Hot Springs in Oregon

If you like the idea of a soothing soak in a mineral-rich tub but don’t want to go hiking in search of an undeveloped pool, Belknap Hot Springs may be more up your alley. The central Oregon resort offers two pools, as well as access to acres of beautiful gardens, mountain home rentals, RV sites, cabins, lodge rooms and camping options. Its proximity to the McKenzie River is also a definite selling point.

The Umpqua Hot Springs lies in the central Oregon Cascades. Its three pristine, descending pools are perched on a mineral deposit above the rushing North Umpqua River. The top pool is the largest and covered by a hand-built wooden roof adorned with artwork, but you’re guaranteed a relaxing, warm soak and spectacular view no matter which pool you decide to dip into. The fee for these springs is $5 per vehicle/day.

Summer Lake Hot Springs is a resort-style soaking experience located two hours south of Bend in the Great Basin region. The 125-acre lot offers natural rock and indoor pools, along with geothermally heated cabins, guest houses, a campground and RV hookups for overnight guests. For those who prefer a day trip, the fee is $10. It’s not located in the forest but rather in the quiet plains, making it a unique location when compared to others on this list. It’s also one of Oregon’s greenest soaks, setting a model for other commercial hot springs.

In southeast Oregon’s high desert dwells a group of healing hot springs. Crystal Crane is a well-developed oasis in Burns that offers both public and private (for those who’d rather relax au naturel) soaking options. The 102F (38.8C) communal pool has a $3.50 fee, which is waived for those who choose to spend the night, and the private tubs run at $7.50 an hour.

The Alvord Hot Springs is a public-turned-commercial soaking site at the gate of the Alvord Desert, east of Steens Mountain. Though there is now a $5 fee to use the tubs, the Davis family, who owns the property, has completely revamped the pools for a more enjoyable experience and now offers camping, too. Like Summer Lake, this is a different kind of Oregon hot spring experience, with the sound of rushing rivers replaced by serene quietness, and the view of towering trees replaced by twinkling stars.