1. Belknap Hot Springs - 1 hour from Eugene
Location: McKenzie Bridge, Oregon – about 1 hour from Eugene
Recommended For: Couples, families, and wellness travelers looking for a full-service hot springs getaway
What I Love: ♥ "Soak in steamy mineral pools surrounded by lush gardens and forested riverbanks."
- Relax in two mineral hot spring pools, with lounge chairs and peaceful river views.
- Explore the tranquil gardens and walking paths that add charm to the resort grounds.
- Stay overnight in the historic lodge, cottages, or campground nestled in nature.
- Visit the upper pool (overnight guests only) or enjoy all-day access to the lower pool (available with day pass).
- Unwind in the McKenzie River Valley—perfect for hiking, biking, and waterfall spotting nearby.
Cost: Lodging rates vary; day passes available for hourly or all-day soaking
Best time to visit: Year-round – pools are open in every season, but spring and fall offer ideal temperatures
Local tips: Arrive early if you're a day guest—weekends can get busy. Don’t miss the stunning Secret Garden trail onsite!
Distance: ~1 hour from Eugene, ~2.5 hours from Bend
How to Get to Belknap Hot Springs: Follow OR-126 E/McKenzie Hwy from Eugene. The springs are located just east of McKenzie Bridge.
Address: 59296 N Belknap Hot Springs Rd, McKenzie Bridge, OR 97413, Phone: 541-822-3512
2. McCredie Hot Springs - 1 hour from Eugene
Location: Willamette National Forest, Oakridge, Oregon
Recommended For: Adventurous soakers and travelers seeking a rustic, natural experience
What I Love: ♥ "Soak beside Salt Creek where steamy mineral waters meet icy runoff in a secluded forest hideaway."
- Soak in primitive hot spring pools on both sides of Salt Creek, nestled in the forest.
- Feel the natural heat—water can reach up to 130°F near the source.
- Adjust the temperature with nearby cold creek water for a perfect mix.
- Unplug in a clothing-optional, no-frills setting far from resorts and spa facilities.
- Visit on weekdays or early mornings to avoid weekend crowds.
Cost: Free with a Northwest Forest Pass (or $5/day fee at the trailhead)
Best time to visit: Spring through fall – winter road conditions may limit access
Local tips: There are no bathrooms or facilities—pack out all trash and come prepared. Footwear is recommended for rocky terrain.
Distance: ~1 hour from Eugene, ~20 minutes from Oakridge
How to Get to McCredie Hot Springs: From Eugene, take OR-58 E. Look for a small parking area just off the highway near milepost 45.
Address: Willamette National Forest, Oakridge, OR
3. Breitenbush Hot Springs - 1.5 hours from Salem
Location: Willamette National Forest, ~70 miles east of Salem, Oregon
Recommended For: Wellness seekers, quiet retreat lovers, and mindful travelers
What I Love: ♥ "Unplug in an off-grid wilderness sanctuary with sacred soaking pools and tranquil silence."
- Soak in three stone-lined tubs with varying temperatures and stunning forest views.
- Enjoy a quiet pool reserved specifically for silent, meditative soaking.
- Unwind with yoga, massage, and holistic wellness programs.
- Stay overnight in rustic cabins or attend immersive, multi-day retreats.
- Explore miles of peaceful hiking trails through lush wilderness.
Cost: Day use and overnight rates vary by season and accommodation type
Best time to visit: Spring through fall – roads may close during heavy winter snow
Local tips: Breitenbush is off the grid—no Wi-Fi or cell service. All meals are vegetarian and included in overnight stays.
Distance: ~2.5 hours from Portland, ~1.5 hours from Salem
How to Get to Breitenbush: From Salem, take OR-22 E to Detroit. From there, follow Breitenbush Rd SE ~10 miles east into the forested canyon.
Address: 53000 Breitenbush Rd SE, Detroit, OR 97342, Phone: 503-854-3320
Affordable Hot Springs
4. Bagby Hot Springs - 1.5 hours from Portland
Location: Mount Hood National Forest, near Estacada, Oregon
Recommended For: Soaking enthusiasts, rustic adventurers, and social bathers
What I Love: ♥ "Soak in hand-carved cedar tubs in the heart of an old-growth forest."
- Hike 1.5 scenic miles through dense forest to reach the springs.
- Choose from three bathhouses with unique soaking options.
- Relax in private cedar log tubs filled by natural thermal water.
- Socialize in six-foot-wide communal tubs under rustic wood awnings.
- Appreciate the craftsmanship and serene setting of this beloved Oregon retreat.
Cost: A small soaking fee is required; bring cash for self-pay envelopes
Best time to visit: Spring through fall – check conditions in winter as access may be limited
Local tips: Bagby is day-use only and clothing-optional. Early mornings and weekdays are best for solitude.
Distance: ~1.5 hours from Portland
How to Get to Bagby: From Estacada, follow OR-224 E to Forest Road 63, then Forest Road 70 to the trailhead.
Address: Mt. Hood National Forest, Estacada, OR
5. Hart Mountain Hot Springs - 3 hours from Lakeview
Location: Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, near Plush, Oregon
Recommended For: Wildlife watchers, solitude seekers, and rustic soakers
What I Love: ♥ "Soak in warm pools under Oregon’s wide-open skies, far from civilization."
- Relax in the landscaped main hot spring surrounded by smooth rocks for sitting.
- Explore a second smaller pool with panoramic views of the high desert.
- Unplug in one of Oregon’s most remote and peaceful geothermal escapes.
- Spot pronghorn antelope and other wildlife across the protected refuge.
- Enjoy a serene soak with little to no crowds year-round.
Cost: Free to visit; no reservation required
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall – snow can block access roads in winter
Local tips: Bring drinking water and supplies; amenities are minimal. A 4WD vehicle may be helpful during rainy or muddy conditions.
Distance: ~4.5 hours from Bend or ~3 hours from Lakeview
How to Get to Hart Mountain: From Plush, follow Hart Mountain Road east into the refuge. Continue to the campground and springs access.
Address: Plush, OR 97637
6. Umpqua Hot Spring
Location: Umpqua National Forest, Oregon
Recommended For: Adventurous couples, photographers, and nature lovers
What I Love: ♥ "Three cascading pools tucked into a forested hillside with river views below."
- Soak in tiered hot spring pools that increase in temperature as you climb uphill.
- Enjoy a covered soaking tub for shade or rain shelter year-round.
- Relax in a popular yet scenic site with geothermal warmth and natural beauty.
- Hike a short 0.25-mile trail to access the hot springs from the parking area.
- Experience the freedom of clothing-optional soaking in a serene forest setting.
Cost: A valid NW Forest Pass or equivalent is required for parking
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for easy access; winter access may be limited by snow
Local tips: Arrive early on weekends—this is a popular soaking spot and can get crowded by midday. Bring appropriate footwear for the trail.
Distance: ~1.5 hours from Roseburg, OR
How to Get to Umpqua Hot Springs: Take Highway 138 to Forest Road 34 near Toketee Falls, then follow signs to the Umpqua Hot Springs trailhead. A short hike brings you to the springs.
Address: Umpqua National Forest, OR
7. Terwilliger Hot Springs
Location: Willamette National Forest, near Blue River, Oregon
Recommended For: Couples, naturists, and travelers seeking a scenic forest soak
What I Love: ♥ "Five cascading pools warmed by a cave-fed spring nestled above the McKenzie River."
- Soak in a series of five terraced geothermal pools with stunning river valley views.
- Explore the natural cave source that channels hot water down into the basins.
- Hike a brief 0.25-mile forest trail to reach the tranquil soaking area.
- Experience a clothing-optional setting in one of Oregon's most iconic hot springs spots.
- Relax among lush foliage and flowing water in a truly rejuvenating natural atmosphere.
Cost: Small day-use fee collected at the trailhead
Best time to visit: Spring through fall; winter access may be affected by snow
Local tips: Weekends are busy—visit early or on weekdays for more privacy. Footwear is recommended for rocky terrain.
Distance: ~1 hour from Eugene, OR
How to Get to Terwilliger Hot Springs: From Highway 126 near Blue River, turn onto Cougar Dam Road. Follow signs to the hot springs parking area, then hike the short trail to the pools.
Address: Blue River, OR 97413
Romantic Hot Springs
8. Paulina Hot Springs - 40 minutes from Bend, OR
Location: Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Deschutes National Forest, near Bend, Oregon
Recommended For: Hikers, nature lovers, and fans of raw, geothermal soaking experiences
What I Love: ♥ "Shoreline-dug pools with a blend of lake-cooled hot spring water and mountain views."
- Soak in natural pools dug into the shores of Paulina Lake, warmed by geothermal vents below.
- Hike a scenic 2-mile lakeside trail from the campground, with panoramic mountain views.
- Marvel at the rare chance to bathe at the intersection of volcanic activity and alpine beauty.
- Enjoy lake-moderated temperatures as cool waves naturally blend with the thermal water.
- Relax in a quiet, remote setting away from commercial development.
Cost: Free with access pass or day-use fee for Deschutes National Forest
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall (snow can make access difficult in winter)
Local tips: Wear sturdy shoes for rocky shoreline sections. Bring a towel and respect Leave No Trace principles.
Distance: ~40 minutes from Bend, OR
How to Get to Paulina Hot Springs: From Bend, take Hwy 97 south to Paulina Lake Road. Park near Little Crater Campground and follow the trail along the north side of the lake about two miles to the springs.
Address: Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Bend, OR 97702
9. Bigelow Hot Springs - 1 hour 15 minutes from Eugene
Location: Blue River, Oregon – ~60 miles from Eugene, along the McKenzie River
Recommended For: Couples, solo travelers, and hot spring seekers looking for a quiet roadside soak
What I Love: ♥ “Tucked beside the river, this tiny pool delivers big relaxation with minimal effort.”
- Soak in a man-made rock tub fed by natural thermal waters right on the riverbank.
- Enjoy the tranquil setting of the McKenzie River corridor surrounded by forest.
- Relax in a cozy pool with space for three to four people—perfect for intimate escapes.
- Access the spring via a short, easy trail just off a forest service road.
- Disconnect and unwind in this undeveloped and free-to-use natural soak.
Cost: Free
Best time to visit: Spring through fall—cold river water may cool the pool during high runoff season
Local tips: Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds at this small site
Distance: ~1 hour 15 minutes from Eugene
How to Get to Bigelow Hot Springs: From Eugene, take Hwy 126 east to Deer Creek Road near Blue River. Park in the small roadside turnout and follow the short path down to the river’s edge.
Address: Blue River, OR 97413
10. Ritter Hot Springs
Location: Long Creek, Oregon – in a 100-year-old ghost town in northeastern Oregon
Recommended For: History buffs, rustic travelers, and hot springs enthusiasts looking for a secluded soak
What I Love: ♥ “Soaking in mineral tubs surrounded by a ghost town is an unforgettable Oregon experience.”
- Soak in one of four partly enclosed concrete tubs fed by natural hot spring water.
- Take a dip in the adjacent cool swimming pool after warming up in the tubs.
- Enjoy the outdoor shower facilities and the peaceful riverside setting.
- Experience life in a historic ghost town nestled along the Middle Fork of the John Day River.
- Stay overnight in the on-site historic hotel for a full retreat into Oregon’s past.
Cost: Day-use soaking fee applies
Best time to visit: Summer through early fall for best weather and road conditions
Local tips: The site is remote and rustic—bring your own supplies and be prepared for limited cell service
Distance: ~3.5 hours from Bend, ~4 hours from Boise
How to Get to Ritter Hot Springs: From Long Creek, head northwest on US-395 and take local roads toward Ritter Hot Spur Rd. Follow signs for the ghost town and hot springs area.
Address: Ritter Hot Spur Rd, Long Creek, OR 97856, Phone: 541-421-3846
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