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Bend, Oregon is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, and one of the best ways to relax after a day spent exploring is to soak in a natural hot spring. Here we’ll look at eight of the best hot springs near Bend, Oregon you won’t want to miss!
From the rustic pools of Umpqua Hot Springs to the pristine overnight stay at Crystal Crane Hot Springs, there are plenty of places to soak up the natural beauty of this area. Here’s a list of some of the best hot springs near Bend, Oregon that you can explore when planning your next trip:
Best Hot Springs Near Bend
Umpqua Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 121 miles (2 hours 20 minutes)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: .4 miles with a steep climb
Type of Hot Spring: Wild
Fee to Enter/Park: $5 cash per car, or free with a NW Forest Pass or Interagency Parks Pass (America the Beautiful)
Umpqua Hot Springs is one of the best day trips from Bend, Oregon to enjoy the natural pools found throughout Oregon. These pools are fed by a natural hot spring and range in temperature as the water cascades between each pool, from steamy to warm springs, to cool. There are usually 2-3 hot pools towards the top of the hill, depending on water levels.
Note that while these natural springs are enjoyable for all visitors including families, clothing is optional and nudity is very common. The springs are also incredibly popular, so if you want to avoid crowds we recommend visiting early in the morning and/or on a weekday. We arrived just after 7 am and were one of 3 groups there. After a while, we had the springs to ourselves!
While camping is not available at the hot springs, Umpqua Hot Springs is located within Umpqua National Forest which has many rustic campsites available for an overnight stay. It is also a short drive from Crater Lake National Park and shares an entrance road with Toketee Falls so there is much to do in the area after you dry off from your soak!
Belknap Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 70 miles (1.5 hours)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: None
Type of Hot Spring: Resort
Fee to Enter/Park: $10 per adult, including parking
Belknap Hot Springs is an excellent destination for residents and tourists alike, showcasing why Bend is regarded as one of the best places to live in Oregon. Located just a short distance from Bend, Belknap Hot Springs, is a hidden gem renowned for its natural beauty and soothing thermal waters.
A short stroll from the parking area will lead you to the enchanting Belknap Hot Springs. No significant hiking is required, making it easily accessible for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.
When visiting Belknap Hot Springs, expect to immerse yourself in the therapeutic warmth of the mineral-rich pools. The springs feature two pools with varying temperatures, allowing you to find your ideal level of comfort. The main pool requires clothing, while the upper pool offers the option for a clothing-optional experience, creating a liberating atmosphere for those seeking a more natural soak.
To enhance your visit, Belknap Hot Springs provides clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities. You can freshen up after your dip and ensure a pleasant experience throughout your stay.
Crowding at Belknap Hot Springs can vary depending on the day of the week. Weekends and holidays tend to attract more visitors, resulting in busier pools and limited seating areas. Consequently, if you prefer a quieter experience, planning your visit on weekdays is recommended when the crowds are typically smaller.
After enjoying the hot springs, venture back to Bend to discover the city’s vibrant culture, outdoor recreational opportunities, and thriving dining scene. Explore the picturesque landscapes, indulge in outdoor activities, and savor the culinary delights, all within close proximity to the relaxing retreat of Belknap Hot Springs.
Contributed by: Trijit from Budget Travel Buff
Paulina Lake Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 40 miles (1 hour)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: The hot springs can be reached by foot from the parking lot in about a quarter-mile.
Type of Hot Spring: Wild
Fee to Enter/Park: No entry or park fee is required
Paulina Lake Hot Springs is a stunning natural hot spring surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests. The water in the hot springs is heated by geothermal activity and has a temperature range of 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. However, many thermal springs emerge from the bottom of Paulina Lake.
The hot spring appeared when the Newberry volcano core collapsed, and later the pit was filled with water. In a time, pits were set apart, making a diversion in the water while making it appear as two bodies. The hot springs at Paulina mainly consist of circular dugouts within the lake’s sandy banks, with bordered rock pools.
May to July is the ideal time to visit Paulina Lake hot Springs when there is enough water in the pools. Basic amenities, including changing rooms, pit toilets, and picnic tables, are available here. This tourist destination can be crowded on weekends and holidays, so come here during the weekdays.
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best hours because the temperatures are cooler and the light is more beautiful. Water shoes or sandals with good traction for walking through slippery areas are recommended. Paulina Lake hot springs are a perfect place to unwind and connect with nature and its natural beauty, rustic charm, and relaxing waters.
Contributed by: Ruma Dey Baidya of The Holiday Story
Terwilliger Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 90 miles (2 hours)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: Short 0.3-mile hike from the parking lot
Type of Hot Spring: Wild/Natural
Fee to Enter/Park: The entry fee is $10 per person for 2 hours. The fee includes hot springs, trail, lagoon, and parking lot.
Terwilliger Hot Springs, also known as Cougar Hot Springs, is a popular natural hot spring located in the Willamette National Forest just 2 hours from Bend, Oregon.
There are five pools of varying temperatures, ranging from warm to hot, and each one offers a unique view of the surrounding landscape. There are no restrooms or showers available on site. Clothing is optional at the hot springs.
While reservations are not required, it’s recommended to arrive early in the day to secure a spot. On weekends, the hot springs tend to be more crowded, so visitors looking for a quieter experience may want to visit during the week. Additionally, parking can be limited, so it’s recommended to carpool if possible.
Remember to bring a towel!
Contributed by: Alexa at 52 Perfect Days
Other Hot Springs in Oregon
Bigelow (Deer Creek) Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 70 miles (1.5 hours)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: Short Walk
Type of Hot Spring: Wild/Natural
Fee to Enter/Park: None
Also known as Deer Creek Hot Springs, Bigelow Hot Springs is another rustic hot spring located in Oregon. There are no facilities at this wild hot spring, so bring what you need and pack it out with you when you go.
Bigelow Hot Spring is a single pool made of sand and gravel. The hot springs are clothing-optional. Bigelow is located near Belknap and Terwilliger Hot Springs (Cougar Hot Springs). Therefore, they are extremely popular in the high season so plan to come early, during a weekday, or turn around and visit one of the other nearby natural springs if it is too packed.
Crystal Crane Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 156 miles (2.5-3 hours)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: 1 mile
Type of Hot Spring: Resort
Fee to Enter/Park: $10 per person per day
Crystal Crane Hot Springs is one of the most popular hot springs resorts in Oregon. It features four large pools and several smaller ones with temperatures ranging from 85-115 degrees Fahrenheit.
Located just outside of Burns, the hot springs are set amidst rolling sand dunes and vast wetlands emphasizing its pristine and wild beauty. With its relatively isolated location, it makes for an ideal spot to relax in nature away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
McCredie Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 87 miles (1.5-2 hours)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: 0.25 miles
Type of Hot Spring: Wild/Natural
Fee to Enter/Park: $5 per person
McCredie Hot Springs is located along the banks of Salt Creek in the Willamette National Forest. The 2-4 pools are quite shallow at only 2 feet in the deepest point. They are human-built and lined with large rocks to hold in the natural-fed hot spring water.
As with other natural springs, McCredie Hot Springs is clothing-optional.
Bagby Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 130 miles (3 hours)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: 1.5 miles
Type of Hot Spring: Primitive/Rustic
Fee to Enter/Park: $5 per person
Bagby Hot Springs is a rustic soaking experience located in the Mount Hood National Forest. The natural springs feature several wooden tubs nestled into tree-covered hillsides and offer stunning views of both the Cascade Mountains and surrounding forests.
It’s a great spot for those looking for an off-the-beaten path soak, as the hot springs are nestled far enough away from civilization to provide you with a secluded and peaceful experience.
Despite temptations, note that the forest service banned alcohol at these hot springs, so leave the booze at home.
Alvord Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 237 miles (4 hours)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: None
Type of Hot Spring: Wild/Natural
Fee to Enter/Park: $20 per person per day
Alvord Hot Springs is one of the most unique hot springs near Bend. It features two large, concrete pools that overlook the Alvord Desert. The Alvord Desert is an expansive desert lake surrounded by hills of sagebrush and juniper trees – making for an amazing spot for soaking up some sun and relaxing in nature.
The owners ask that day-use visitors call ahead for availability. Alvord Hot Springs also offers rustic accommodations and camping, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy a weekend away
Summer Lake Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 124 miles (2 hours)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: 0.25 miles
Type of Hot Spring: Resort
Fee to Enter/Park: Reservations Required
Summer Lake Hot Springs is one of the most popular hot springs near Bend, Oregon. It features a large indoor pool and several warmer outdoor rock pools. Also nearby are ancient petroglyphs, archaeological sites, nature trails, and a bird sanctuary.
Day-use is not available and overnight reservations are required to visit this hot spring resort. Located on 145 acres with 12 cabins, RV hookup sites, and campsites, Summer Lake Hot Springs are a great weekend trip from Bend.
East Lake Hot Springs
Distance from Bend: 127 miles (2 hours 15 minutes)
Hiking Distance to Hot Spring: 2 miles
Type of Hot Spring: Wild/Natural
Fee to Enter/Park: $10 per person per day
Also located in Newberry Volcanic Monument, East Lake Hot Springs is a great option for those looking for a natural springs experience. The hot springs feature three different pools of varying sizes and temperatures, all located near the banks of East Lake.
With its stunning views of Mt. Bachelor and the surrounding Cascade Mountains, it makes for an ideal spot to relax in nature away from city life. East Lake also offers plenty of activities such as hiking, fishing and canoeing, so it’s a perfect spot for all sorts of outdoor adventurers.
Map of Hot Springs in Oregon
Hot Springs Etiquette
It’s important to protect wild hot springs for others to enjoy, so be sure to follow these guidelines:
- Many wild hot springs are clothing optional
- Don’t wear bug spray or sunscreen that can leave chemicals behind
- Pack up everything you brought with you when you leave, including any trash and toilet paper!
- It has to be said: don’t use the bathroom in the hot springs. If a toilet is not available, go in the woods at least 200 feet away from any water sources (and pack out your TP)
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip to a natural hot spring or an overnight excursion at a hot springs resort, these eleven hot springs near Bend, Oregon should definitely be on your list.
Relax and unwind in nature’s finest and breathe in that crisp Oregon air! Happy soaking!
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