Austin Hot Springs – Oregon
Located in Mount Hood National Forest alongside the Clackamas River likes one of the hottest springs in the state. Austin hot springs is a primitive geothermal pool that is on private lands (you need to obtain permission before using the springs). However, once you are given the go ahead, the area is the perfect wilderness backdrop with flowing waters for a relaxing and secluded day of soaking.
The hot springs are part of the Umpqua National Forest and they can be reached by car or foot via several nearby trails. The water temperature at Austin Hot Springs ranges between 101-105 degrees Fahrenheit, making it comfortable enough for anyone to take a dip without having to worry about burning themselves. There are also plenty of shaded areas available so visitors can relax in comfort while taking in the stunning views of Mount Thielsen and other peaks within the Cascades range.
As well as being incredibly beautiful, Austin Hot Springs is known for its therapeutic benefits due to its high mineral content which includes lithium, boron, potassium and iron among others. People have reported feeling relaxed after soaking up these minerals which help alleviate stress, reduce inflammation, improve circulation and even ease symptoms associated with arthritis or fibromyalgia sufferers. In addition to this, many people find that their skin feels softer after spending time here thanks to all those helpful minerals!
When visiting Austin Hot Springs it’s important to remember that there’s no lifeguard on duty so swimming should only be done with caution; however you don’t need any special equipment like goggles as visibility underwater isn’t an issue since everything is crystal clear! As far as safety goes – there are signs posted warning people not to drink directly from the spring but instead fill up bottles before drinking; also please note that dogs aren’t allowed inside the area due to conservation reasons (but feel free bring along your four legged friends if you plan on hiking).
Again we do want to first caution you that these springs can get extremely hot so be sure you check the temperature before getting in. The geothermal source of the water that comes up through the ground has been recorded as high as 150 degrees which can cause 3rd degree burns. However, because it’s a primitive hot springs built by rock formations, if you do find it to be excessively hot you can let more of the Clackamas River water in to help cool it down to a manageable level. Typically throughout the year the pools average between 100 – 115 degrees.
To book a time to visit Austin Hot Springs, please contact the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon. It’s well worth the call and once you visit, you’ll be hooked to go again.
Directions to Austin Hot Springs
From Portland, Oregon
1. Start on US-26 East towards OR-99 East (1 mile)
2. Make a right on OR-99 East and head towards Oregon City (4 miles)
3. Make a right and merge onto OR-224 East towards Clackamas (6 miles)
4. Make a left and merge onto OR-212 East (2 miles)
5. Make a right onto OR-224 East (1 Mile)
6. Make a right onto Market Rd (.5 miles)
7. Make a left onto South Springwater Rd (10 miles)
8. Make a left onto South Hayden Road (1 miles)
9. Make a left onto OR-211 N (1 mile)
10. Make a right onto OR-224 East (25 miles)
11. Continue driving onto NF-46 (6 miles)
12. Your destination will be on the right (parking area)
Because it’s on private property there isn’t drive up parking to the springs. It will require a short hike down to the river where you will see the hot springs.
Address: Ripplebrooke, Oregon
Haven Hot Springs