Bigelow Hot Springs – Oregon
Situated alongside the McKenzie River is another amazing Oregon hot springs for you to enjoy. Bigelow Hot Springs, also known by many as Deer Creek, was created by locals blocking off a section of the river with rocks to allow the natural mineral waters a place to reside before slowly flowing back into McKenzie. These days hundreds of people visit per week (especially during the summer months) to not only enjoy a relaxing soak, but to also get away from the day to day life and reconnect with mother nature.
Details about Bigelow Hot Springs
Bigelow Hot Springs is a large, natural hot spring located in the Umatilla National Forest in Oregon. This hot spring has been popular with visitors for many years and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area. The springs are surrounded by lush greenery and are situated near several hiking trails, making it an ideal spot to spend some time soaking up nature’s beauty.
The Bigelow Hot Springs have two main pools – one measuring approximately 35 feet long and 8-10 feet wide, while the other is larger at roughly 50 feet long and 15-20 feet wide. Both pools reach temperatures of 104°F (40°C) due to geothermal activity deep underground that heats up the water as it rises to the surface. Visitors can take advantage of this natural heat source by swimming or simply relaxing in either pool while enjoying views of nearby mountains, rivers, forests and meadows.
In addition to these two main pools, there are also several smaller ones scattered throughout the property which range from warm to very hot depending on their location within proximity to other sources of thermal energy such as steam vents or fissures between rock layers beneath them. The mineral content found in Bigelow Hot Springs is said to be beneficial for both skin health as well as overall wellness due to its high sulfur content which helps boost circulation and detoxify your body when absorbed into your skin through prolonged exposure over time (upwards 30 minutes).
It’s worth noting though that these minerals can cause staining if left on clothing so be sure not leave any wet garments lying around! Visitors should plan ahead before visiting Bigelow Hot Springs since it isn’t open year-round; during winter months when snowfall makes access difficult or hazardous they close off public access until conditions improve again come springtime – typically mid April/early May depending on how much precipitation was received during previous months leading up until then so always check online beforehand just incase! Additionally you’ll want make sure bring along plenty supplies including food/water/tent etc., since there aren’t any facilities available here aside from restrooms located near parking lot entrance (which only accessible via short walk away).
Bigelow Hot Springs maintains an average temperature of 103 degrees, but can be adjusted by moving the rocks around if you wanted a little cooler water to flow in. During the winter months the natural springs pool can get considerably colder if there has been a lot of snow fall which is why it’s much more popular during the summer and fall months. We highly recommend trying to go on weekdays or early in the mornings to avoid too much foot traffic. If you do find yourself having to wait a bit, there are some amazing hiking trails in the area and the perfect way to kill a little time.
Because this is a primitive hot springs area, there aren’t any amenities at Bigelow. Please make sure you pack some water and snacks.
Directions to Bigelow Hot Springs
From Eugene, Oregon
1. Begin on OR-126 East (7 miles)
2. Turn left to continue on OR-126 East (54 miles)
3. Turn left again onto NF-2654 (.2 miles)
Once you arrive at your destination you will see parking for the springs. It’s a very easy hike along side McKenzie River to get to the pool. Happy Soaking!
Location and Map of Bigelow Hot Springs
Blue River, OR 97413
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