Deep in the heart of dusty southeastern Oregon lies a hidden gem – Snively Hot Springs. This natural hot springs is a true oasis in the midst of rugged desert terrain. Snively is located approximately 30 miles south of Jordan Valley, Oregon. The last few miles are on a rough road, so be sure to have a vehicle suitable for high clearance. Once you arrive, you’ll find a small dirt parking area near the trailhead. From there, it’s a short hike to the hot springs.
Snively features several natural pools, ranging in temperature from warm to hot. The water is natural and untreated, so be sure to test the temperature before getting in. The pools are surrounded by rocks and vegetation, creating a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation. This area is known to be popular, so be prepared to share the pools with other visitors.
Snively Hot Springs Pictures
Snively Hot Springs is nestled in a canyon surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The contrast between the hot springs and the surrounding desert landscape is truly striking. The area around the hot springs is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer and bighorn sheep. The natural environment is fragile, so be sure to respect it and avoid littering.
Tips for Visiting Snively Hot Springs
Check the weather forecast and road conditions before your visit and dress appropriately. The weather in southeastern Oregon can be extreme, with hot summers and cold winters.
- Snively is under nighttime closure and is patrolled from dusk until dawn by the BLM and county Sherrif.
- Bring water, snacks, a towel and a swimsuit. A change of clothes is also recommended.
- Be aware of the risks of soaking in natural hot springs, including high temperatures and the risk of infection. Do not submerge your head under water and avoid swallowing the water.
- Respect the environment and other visitors. Do not litter or disturb the natural environment. No glass containers are allowed.
- The area around Snively Hot Springs is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Consider hiking or exploring the nearby Owyhee Canyonlands.
Snively Hot Springs is a natural wonder that’s well worth a visit. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, natural beauty, or a unique experience, the hot springs will not disappoint.
Snively Hot Springs Map
View Oregon Hot Springs in a larger map
Snively Hot Springs GPS Coordinates
43.7303, -117.20314
Snively Hot Springs Map Quad
OWYHEE DAM 7.5
Snively Hot Springs is usually taken care of pretty well, although sometimes can be trashed. The hot springs is walled off from the river by tarp dams and rocks. I’ve visited it a couple of times and enjoyed it best at dusk. The scenery is rugged but the hot springs is right off the road at a rest/picnic area so not a lot of hiking. Lots of birds, fish and sometimes deer…haven’t seen a rattlesnake yet but I
know they are there. Looking for an easy place to access this one’s for you.
Soaked at Snively today 4-24-14. It is a large shallow pool constructed of stone on the bank of the river. Water temperature can be adjusted by how much river water is allowed through the handmade rock wall. The water is clean and the bottom is nice river gravel. It is on BLM ground with two parking areas and one john building. It was frequented by lots of folks during our afternoon/eve visit. BLM has posted “no overnight camping, closed sunset to sunrise”. This is a soak I would return to.
Went and soaked end of Oct 2015, amazingly large stone pools with varying temperature the closer to the bank you get. No crowds.
Actual coordinates
43°43’49.1″N 117°12’11.2″W
Spring is looking pretty nice. Much of the pools have been rebuilt. The largest pool still needs lots of work, but we spent a few hours on it this week 🙂 Please do not bring glass bottles and clean up any trash that any bros have left behind. My brother had a 2″ shard of glass in his foot after stepping into the big pool. Also, someone pooped at the edge of the pool…don’t hesitate to call OSP on gross litterbugs! OSP: (541) 889-6469
This is my favorite spot. The pools seem to be constantly changing by the hot springs angels that work their magic. There have been times when the mix of the hot and cold water is not as great…but I love this place anyway. I never know what I might be immersing into.
The scenery on the drive there, and the scenery while visiting, is breathtaking.
I have visited summer, fall, winter, and spring.
Is naively handicapped accessible. Thank you
FYI, BLM increasing patrols here: https://idahonews.com/news/local/blm-to-increase-snively-hot-springs-patrol-after-continued-illegal-prohibited-behavior
This is a bit frustrating. This has happened many times in the past. The problem is they don’t patrol at night. Instead, they show up during the day and hand out citations to people soaking w/o a suit. Hopefully, they change it up this time. Snively needs all of our help.