Umpqua Hot Spring

This collection of geothermal pools sit right on the edge of a rock face, spilling 105-degree water into the North Umpqua River below.

We visited Crater Lake first then did camping at Diamond Lake campground which is about 30 minutes drive from the hot springs.

We visited in the summer and didn’t need snow tires or chains but keep in mind that these hot springs are in the mountains. If you visit in the winter, you’ll probably need chains and you’ll need to keep a watchful eye on weather reports.

If you want a pass, which will be handy to visit other Oregon sites, get the Northwest Forest Pass. You can buy it online in advance or you can pick one up at a local REI. Make sure to display your forest pass on your dashboard OR pay the $5 BEFORE you hike into the springs so you won’t be ticketed.

Umpqua hot springs is a DAY USE only area, open from sunrise to sunset. Keep in mind that in the winter, the sun sets much earlier. Please be respectful of these hours. Abuse could lead to this area being closed to the public which would really suck.

Hiking Into The Hot Springs

After you have paid, it’s time to hike into the North Umpqua hot springs! The springs trailhead is a short hike but steep, so here’s some tips:

Wear sturdy hiking boots for the walk. This 0.3-mile trail (0.6 total round trip) is fairly steep, with 206 feet in elevation gain in this short trail. So I recommend not to hike in sandals.

Bring a waterproof bag to store your camera and dry clothes! Again, this area is naturally wet, but the area around the pools is even wetter. You’ll want to keep your things dry! We didn’t have a formal waterproof bag so we used trash bags!

Bring towels to dry off after your soak. You’ll want this so you don’t have to hike back soaking wet!

Bring extra dry clothes to change into after you return to your car. I recommend bringing a large dress to the hot springs, something you can quickly throw on over your swimsuit after drying off and keep you warm on the quick hike back to the car.

Pack in enough water to keep you hydrated. Geothermal pools can get up to 105 degrees. It’s like a giant naturally forming hot tub. You don’t want to get seriously dehydrated!

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT:

The access road to the parking lot is short, but filled with deep potholes. Go super slow on this road to avoid a flat tire!

THE PARKING LOT IS SMALL

The parking lot at Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead is small, enough for about 10 cars. It’s unlawful to block the road, so if the lot is full, you’re out of luck! To increase your chances of getting a spot, come during the weekdays, and early in the morning for fewer crowds.

THIS IS BUSY LOCATION

Because of its natural beauty, social media, and simply its well-known name, Umpqua Hot Springs is a popular Oregon hot springs location! Expect to see others at the pools, and make sure to follow proper hot springs etiquette when sharing a space with others.

THE WATER IS MURKY

FOLLOW PROPER HOT SPRINGS ETIQUETTE

Pacific Northwest hot springs require delicate care and conservation! These areas are popular around the world and it’s important to follow these hot springs etiquette guidelines to ensure future visitors have a great time too.

Here’s a quick list of must-follow rules for hot springs soaking:

1. Keep It Clean: They cannot support soap & shampoo. Nothing should be added to the water except yourselves.
2. Pack It In And Pack It Out: Keep it clean for yourself and for other visitors by packing out all your trash.
3. Leave It Better Than You Found It: Help Umpqua Hot Springs continue to be enjoyed for years to come by being respectful of any boundaries, structures, or waterways in place.
4. Clothing May Be Optional: Depending on the location of the hot springs, you may encounter soakers in the nude.
5. Be Respectful Of Others: Everyone comes for their own reasons. Be respectful of people who wish for a silent soak. Don’t be rude and allow others to take a turn.
6. Don’t disturb the natural habitat: There are bats in the cave right by the side of river. They might be scared of people, we should be very thoughtful of them and not go any near. Remember you are in their home.