Hidden in the rugged beauty of southeast Oregon’s high desert, Juntura Hot Springs offers a unique and serene soaking experience. This natural wonder features a large, deep, rock-walled pool, its floor a mosaic of soft sand and sturdy rock. While the water’s surface may be dappled with light algae growth, it doesn’t detract from the overall allure.
Juntura Hot Springs Pictures
A concrete slab, a relic of a bygone era, still borders the pool, a silent witness to countless moments of relaxation and rejuvenation. A poignant memorial marker stands nearby, honoring a young life lost at this very spot, a reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature.
The water temperature in the main pool typically ranges from a toasty 105 to a sizzling 115 degrees Fahrenheit. For those seeking a cooler soak, the nearby river offers a refreshing respite. Simply scoop up some cold river water and dump it into the hot pool to temper the temperature to your liking.
Please note: While Juntura Hot Springs offers a truly unique experience, it’s important to be mindful of the remote location and potential hazards. Always prioritize safety and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Camping
While there are no formal campsites directly at the hot springs, dispersed camping is allowed in the surrounding area. It’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment.
Facilities
The hot springs are a primitive, undeveloped site. There are no formal facilities such as restrooms or picnic areas.
Additional Considerations
Juntura Hot Springs is a clothing-optional site. It’s important to be respectful of others and the natural environment.
Access and Usage Fees
There are no fees to access Juntura Hot Springs.
History
The history of Juntura Hot Springs is intertwined with the history of the region. Indigenous peoples have utilized the healing properties of the waters for centuries. In recent decades, the hot springs have become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking solitude.
Seasonal Access Information
Juntura Hot Springs is accessible year-round, although winter conditions can make access challenging. It’s advisable to check road conditions and weather forecasts before visiting.
The side road could turn into muck-pots in the rain and deteriorate the closer you get to the HS (4×4 recommended most times of the year). During winter; once you turn off hwy 20 the road is pretty much snow and ice-covered – don’t even attempt without 4×4 and chains. The Malheur River is impassible during most of spring runoff.
Nearby Attractions
The Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, a renowned birding destination, is located nearby. Visitors can also explore the Owyhee Canyonlands, a rugged and remote wilderness area.
Tips for Visiting
- Plan Ahead: Check weather and road conditions before your trip.
- Respect the Environment: Practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Be Prepared: Bring plenty of water, snacks and sunscreen.
- Enjoy the Moment: Take time to appreciate the natural beauty of the area and the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs.
Juntura Hot Springs Map
View statewide Oregon Hot Springs map
Driving Directions
From Juntura, Oregon. Take Highway 205 west for approximately 14 miles. The hot springs are located on the west side of the highway.
Soak Stats:
Season: Summer, Fall
Type: Roadside, River Ford
Temperature Range: 105-115°F
Water Clarity: Moderate
Water Odor: Sulfur
Elevation: 3,000 ft
GPS Coordinates: 43.77585, -118.04748
Map Quad: Juntura Hot Springs
Public Land: BLM
Fee: No
Restrictions: None
Usage Level: Moderate
Pool Visibility: Low
Family-Friendly: No
Pet-Friendly: No
Clothing-Optional: Yes
Onsite Camping: No
Pit-Toilet: No
This is a great spot with the river right next to the springs. Pool is large enough for 8 – 10 more if clothed lol. Beware of the Juntura “Ghost”. She is real…she might visit you at the spring you never know.
been here several times while hunting in the area. beautiful. there is also a smaller pool rocked in right by the river. it’s a little cooler. need 4WD to drive to the island otherwise you need to park further back on the rough road and cross the small channel by foot.
A trip to Juntura Hot Spring sounds interesting…
I soaked here today 5-24-14. Turn off Hwy 20 at
43 46 0.37, -118 2 23.14 and take dirt road along river. Go under the steel bridge and then turn right where bridge is closed. I was able to go 3/4 mile in small car from hwy 20, then walk the last 1/4 mile to the island. The river was fast moving and waist deep, I recommend having a walking stick to assist balance when fording river on foot. The main soaking pool is large and 4′ deep at places. Very warm water percolates up through the natural bottom. This temp of this large pool only allowed soaks of 5-10 minutes due to high temps. There are two smaller, shallower pools on the bank of the river that are cooler. Lots of camping spots in immediate area.
Soaked under the blood moon, 9-27-15. Beautiful and peaceful, very little trash. River level extremely low. Love this spot!
We went there today and there was absolutely nobody there. We took off route 20 and drove all the way on the dirt road (across the small steel bridge) for about a mile until we saw the island on our right. There was a small foot path down to the river and we took it and “swam” across the river to the island. The current was strong but we managed to swim across and back (but wouldn’t recommend it for everybody). On the island there were few cairns and we were able to find the hot springs fairly easy. There was also two blue tarps there that we used to sit in and hold down the steaming hot water. Such an interesting and fun experience!
We’re headed there in the next couple of days, should be an exciting trip – we’ll let everyone know how it turns out! Remember though, whoever visits, if we are to keep this site accessible, fun, safe and treasured, we all have to do our part to keep the area clean of human waste and destruction. Leave no trace, create happy memories!
Nicely put silicondreaming! Have a stellar sojourn!
Drove there today 4/8/2017 and was very dissapointed. As were walking along the road there are poached deer carcasses laying around decompsing in the water. We could see the spring across the river because of the amount of trash left behind. The current was fast but i wasnt hanging around such a polluted area. Great place for your pets and family to get sick or injured.
I went there on 4/19/18. I car-camped across the river from the hot springs. There are two relatively large campable spots on that side (west of the hot springs island). A local gentleman who was camping on the island came to pick me up near the Hwy 20, and gave me a lift in his truck to cross the river to get to the hot springs so I could soak. I think it was about 102-103 degrees. There was very little trash (forgotten water bottle) and I thought the area was lovely. The scenery was beautiful especially at dusk. He told me that today would be the last day before the run off water would get too high to cross the river. So, unless you have some means to cross the river, it might be a bit difficult to get to the hot springs on foot for awhile till summer, but not sure. The dirt road to get to closer to the island from hwy would require 4wd or awd. Ruts were deep.
The bridge off the highway was closed when I visited in early June 2018. The only way to the pool now requires a river ford.