The Best Hot Springs Guide in Oregon
Hot springs Guide in Oregon and other states hold a special place in nature, cherished by people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes. These geothermal treasures are both modern escapes and historical sanctuaries, offering peace and rejuvenation to those who seek them. As you soak in their warmth, you’ll find a sense of connection and camaraderie with fellow adventurers, all part of the same unique and exclusive community of enthusiasts.
This Hot Springs guide is just the starting point for your hot springs journey. If you plan to venture beyond easily accessible roadside springs, it’s important to thoughtfully plan your trip. Consider your destination, the duration of your adventure, and the essential items you’ll need to make your experience safe, enjoyable, and memorable.
What Should You Bring to the Hot Springs?
After researching your geothermal destination and verifying road conditions, trail updates, and hot spring statuses with the appropriate public lands office, it’s time to prepare your backpack with all the essentials for a successful trip.
Make sure you’re well-equipped to enjoy your adventure while staying safe and comfortable. Below, you’ll find a checklist of must-have items for your hot springs journey.
Oregon Hot Springs Packing Checklist
Planning a trip to Oregon’s stunning hot springs? Be fully prepared with this comprehensive checklist of essential items to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience.
Always know where you’re headed! A good map or guidebook will help you navigate and find your way back if you wander too far off the trail.
This detailed map is your go-to resource for finding Forest Service and BLM roads and trails. It’s perfect for marking your favorite hot spring spots and should be a staple in your vehicle.
A must-have for your car in case of unexpected breakdowns or emergencies during your journey.
4. Backpack
Pack all your essentials in a sturdy backpack. Keep it ready with towels, swimsuits, and garbage bags for those spontaneous soaking trips.
5. Towel
An absolute must, especially in colder months. Pro Tip: Opt for microfiber towels—they dry much faster than regular ones.
6. Swimsuit
Bring a swimsuit dedicated solely to hot springs. Wash it sparingly to avoid introducing detergent or chemicals into the natural water.
Pack a spare set of clothes. You’ll thank yourself if you accidentally take an unexpected dip fully dressed!
To Oregon, where rain is always a possibility! Keep yourself dry with a lightweight, packable rain jacket.
9. Water
Staying hydrated is essential. Pro Tip: Use a water bottle with a built-in filter for convenience.
10. Thermometer Gun
Measure the water temperature to ensure it’s safe and comfortable, especially in winter. Floating duck thermometers are also a fun and practical option.
11. First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a smart addition to handle minor injuries.
12. Headlamp or Flashlight
Perfect for early morning or late-night visits to the hot springs. Don’t forget extra batteries!
A multi-functional tool that can be a lifesaver, keeping you connected and prepared.
14. Garbage Bags
These are non-negotiable. Use them to pack out trash and keep the area clean for everyone. Garbage bags can also:
- Protect your clothes and items from rain or snow.
- Act as a dry surface to stand on while changing.
- Serve as a floor mat to keep your feet clean and dry near the springs.
By bringing and using garbage bags, you’ll contribute to preserving the beauty of Oregon’s natural treasures.
Other Essential Items for Your Hot Springs Adventure
Make your trip to Oregon’s hot springs safe, comfortable, and memorable by packing these additional must-haves. Each item is thoughtfully selected to enhance your experience while keeping practicality in mind.
1. Dry Sack
Keep your essentials like your phone, towel, and spare clothes safe and dry. A dry sack is perfect for protecting valuables from water splashes or unexpected rain.
A lightweight, foldable chair adds a touch of comfort to your soak. Finding one that’s easy to carry and durable can make all the difference on your trip.
These are a must for hiking to hot springs. Waterproof shoes protect your feet from sharp rocks and slippery surfaces while keeping them dry and comfortable. Don’t risk hiking out with painful cuts or blisters—invest in good footwear.
Perfect for drying wet clothes, towels, and swimsuits. A portable clothesline is lightweight, compact, and incredibly useful during multi-day trips.
5. Snacks
Bring snacks with a balanced mix of carbs and protein to keep your energy levels up. Soaking can leave you feeling tired, so refuel with healthy options—or even take a nap if you need to recharge.
Capture the breathtaking beauty of nature without worrying about water damage. Pro Tip: Use a front-carry pack to keep your camera accessible for that perfect shot.
7. Sunglasses and Sun Hat
Protect your eyes and skin during sunny soaks. These are essential for desert hot springs or bright summer days.
8. Trekking Pole or Hiking Staff
Ensure stability on uneven terrain or river crossings with a trekking pole or hiking staff. To find the ideal length, the pole should reach your armpit when standing upright.
Nature often sparks creativity—be ready to jot down inspirations, thoughts, or observations with a waterproof notepad and pen.
10. GPS Unit
Stay on track with a reliable GPS device, especially if you’re exploring remote locations.
A versatile tool is invaluable for cutting, repairing, or handling minor emergencies.
Practice Leave No Trace principles by digging a small hole (6–8 inches deep) for human waste. Cover the hole after use and pack out all hygiene products.
Great for freshening up after a long hike or soak. Ensure they’re biodegradable to minimize environmental impact.
Ensure access to clean drinking water with tools like a portable water filter, purification tablets, or a LifeStraw.
15. pH Test Strips
Test water quality with commercial-grade pH strips. These are particularly useful for ensuring the safety of less-frequented hot springs.
For measuring hot spring flow rate, use a quart container. Time how long it takes to fill and divide by 15 to determine gallons per minute.
Soak Safety: What to Consider When Visiting Hot Springs in Oregon
Enjoying Oregon’s hot springs can be a rejuvenating experience, but it’s essential to prioritize safety. Keep these key considerations in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
1. Check Road and Travel Conditions
Always review Oregon road conditions before heading out. This helps you avoid closures, heavy traffic, accidents, and inclement weather. Preparation is key to a smooth trip—don’t skip this step!
2. Alcohol Consumption and Dehydration
Hot springs naturally dehydrate the body, and combining them with alcohol can quickly impair your judgment. This dangerous mix has led to accidents, including drownings and falls. Stay hydrated and skip the drinks to ensure your safety.
3. Sun and Soaking
The sun and geothermal heat can quickly sap your energy. To prevent exhaustion or heat-related issues, pack plenty of water, electrolyte drinks, and sunscreen. Protect yourself and stay replenished.
4. Avoid Crowds During Peak Times
Popular hot springs can get overcrowded on weekends and afternoons, especially Fridays and Saturdays. If tranquility is your goal, plan your visit during off-peak hours for a more relaxing experience.
5. Watch for Snakes
Although rare, some hot springs near thermal vents may attract snakes or lizards year-round. If you encounter wildlife, leave them undisturbed, and they’ll do the same for you.
6. Stay Safe During Hunting Season
If you’re heading to backcountry hot springs during hunting season, wear bright clothing to stay visible. Keep in mind that you may be sharing the area with hunters and plan accordingly.
7. Avoid Inappropriate Behavior
Public hot springs are not the place for inappropriate activities. Such behavior can ruin the experience for others and may lead to uncomfortable or embarrassing situations, especially in family-friendly areas.
8. Be Cautious of Spring Runoff
During spring runoff (late June to early July, depending on elevation), rivers and streams near hot springs can become fast-moving and dangerous. Avoid crossing any strong currents until runoff subsides.
9. Check for Wildfires
Wildfire season in Oregon typically occurs during summer and early fall. Check for the latest fire updates before your trip to ensure your planned route and destination are safe.
10. Leave Pets at Home
While soaking with your furry friend may sound fun, most hot springs are not pet-friendly due to environmental and health concerns. It’s best to leave them at home.
11. Protect Your Belongings from Vandals
At popular hot springs, theft and vandalism can be an issue. Lock your car and hide valuables to prevent potential problems.
12. Avoid Glass Containers
Glass breaks easily, and broken shards can pose a hazard to both visitors and the environment. Always use non-breakable containers when visiting hot springs.
13. Be Aware of Spider Mites
Some hot springs in Oregon are known to host red spider mites. While they are uncommon, it’s good to be aware of this potential annoyance.
Leave No Trace: Oregon Hot Springing Ethics
Respecting nature and following Leave No Trace principles are crucial for preserving Oregon’s beautiful hot springs for future generations. Here’s how you can minimize your environmental impact during your visit:
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Know Regulations: Familiarize yourself with rules and special concerns for the area you’re visiting.
- Prepare for Weather: Be ready for extreme conditions, potential hazards, and emergencies.
- Avoid Peak Times: Plan your trip during off-peak hours to minimize congestion and environmental strain.
- Travel in Small Groups: If you’re in a larger party, split into smaller groups of 4-6 people to reduce your impact.
- Reduce Waste: Repackage food into reusable or minimal containers to cut down on trash.
- Use Maps and Compasses: Avoid marking trails with paint, rock cairns, or flagging. Navigation tools help you explore responsibly.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
To protect natural habitats and minimize damage, stick to durable surfaces:
- Durable Options: Use established trails, campsites, rocks, gravel, dry grass, or snow for walking and camping.
- Protect Riparian Zones: Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes, streams, and other water sources to preserve these fragile areas.
- Leave Campsites as They Are: Good campsites are discovered, not created. Avoid altering the area by digging or constructing.
In Popular Areas
- Stick to Trails and Campsites: Concentrate your activities on pre-existing trails and camping areas to reduce wear on surrounding environments.
- Walk Single File: When trails are muddy or wet, stay in the center to prevent widening paths unnecessarily.
- Keep Campsites Small: Minimize your footprint by focusing on areas without vegetation for activities.
In Pristine Areas
- Disperse Use: Spread out your group to prevent the creation of new trails or campsites.
- Avoid Early Damage: Stay away from places where signs of wear or impact are just beginning.
Dispose of Waste Properly
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Take all trash, leftover food, and litter with you. Before leaving, inspect your campsite or rest areas for any debris or spilled food.
- Handle Human Waste Responsibly:
- Dig small holes (6–8 inches deep) at least 200 feet away from water sources, campsites, and trails to deposit solid waste.
- Cover the hole thoroughly after use to minimize environmental impact.
- Pack Out Hygiene Products: Always pack out toilet paper and other hygiene products to prevent litter.
- Wash Away from Water Sources: If washing yourself or dishes, carry water at least 200 feet from lakes or streams. Use a small amount of biodegradable soap and scatter strained dishwater to avoid contaminating the ecosystem.
Leave What You Find
- Preserve History: Observe cultural or historical structures and artifacts without touching them.
- Leave Natural Features Intact: Keep rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them. Avoid picking or altering anything in the environment.
- Prevent Spread of Non-Native Species: Clean your gear and avoid transporting plants or soil that could introduce invasive species to the area.
- Avoid Modifying the Landscape: Don’t dig trenches, build structures, or create furniture out of natural resources.
Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Use Alternatives: Opt for lightweight stoves for cooking and candle lanterns for light instead of campfires.
- Follow Fire Regulations: Where fires are permitted, use designated fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires to contain the flames.
- Keep Fires Small: Only use sticks from the ground that can be easily broken by hand.
- Completely Extinguish Fires: Burn all wood and coals to ash, fully extinguish the fire, and scatter the cool ashes to avoid any lasting impact.
Respect Wildlife
Preserving the balance of nature starts with respecting wildlife. Follow these guidelines to ensure your actions do not harm the animals or their habitat:
- Keep Your Distance: Observe wildlife from afar. Never approach or follow them, as this can cause unnecessary stress or danger for both you and the animals.
- Do Not Feed Animals: Feeding wildlife disrupts their natural diet, alters behaviors, and increases their vulnerability to predators and other threats.
- Secure Food and Trash: Protect both wildlife and your belongings by storing food and trash in secure containers. This helps prevent animals from scavenging.
- Manage Pets Responsibly: Always keep pets under control, preferably on a leash, or leave them at home. Uncontrolled pets can disturb wildlife and the environment.
- Avoid Sensitive Times: Refrain from interacting with wildlife during vulnerable periods, such as mating seasons, when raising young, or in the harsh conditions of winter.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Sharing natural spaces requires mindfulness of others. Help maintain the serenity and enjoyment of these spaces by following these principles:
- Respect Others’ Experiences: Be mindful of how your actions affect others’ enjoyment of nature.
- Be Courteous on Trails: Yield to other trail users, and step aside to the downhill side when encountering pack animals.
- Choose Quiet Locations for Breaks: Take rests and set up camp away from trails and high-traffic areas to avoid disturbing others.
- Let Nature’s Sounds Prevail: Avoid loud noises, music, or shouting that could disrupt the peaceful ambiance of the area.
Research Your Destination
Preparation is key to a successful and safe outdoor experience. Before heading out, take these steps to gather important information:
- Contact Local Authorities: Always call the forest service or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) office near your destination for the latest updates on road conditions, trails, and hot springs.
- Plan for Changing Conditions: Be prepared for weather fluctuations, trail closures, and other unforeseen challenges.
