Perched on a dramatic travertine terrace high above the North Umpqua River, Umpqua Hot Springs, also known as Toketee Hot Springs, is a collection of geothermal pools nestled beneath a lush forest canopy.
As one of Oregon’s most iconic soaking destinations, these tiered pools offer stunning views of the “dancing water” below. A fitting translation for the local Native word “Umpqua.”
Picture: Enjoying a Soak in one of Umpqua’s Smaller Pools
Planning Your Visit to Umpqua Hot Springs
- Access: Located in the Umpqua National Forest, this site is accessible via a rough dirt road; high-clearance vehicles are recommended.
- Cost & Hike: A $5 day pass covers the steep 0.4-mile (0.6 km) hike to the springs.
- The Soak: Multiple cascading pools with temperatures peaking at 115 degrees, with the hottest pool located at the top of the hill.
- Vibe: Popular, clothing-optional and rustic.
- Top Tip: Arrive early on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds.
When is the best time to visit Umpqua Hot Springs?
For the best experience, visit Umpqua Hot Springs between May and September. While the area is beautiful year-round, winter visitors should be aware that the main access road (NF-3401) is usually gated from November through April. This adds a 5-mile round-trip trek to your journey; be prepared with snowshoes or skis.
Safety Checklist
- Check for Fires: Use Inciweb to monitor summer wildfires and smoke.
- Watch the Weather: Heavy rain makes the 0.4-mile trail steep and slippery.
- Consult the Experts: Review the latest U.S. Forest Service updates and our safety guide before you leave.
Picture: Chain of Umpqua Hot Pools
When is Umpqua Hot Springs open?
The hot springs are only open during daylight hours. They are heavily frequented, so if you’re visiting during the summer peak season, arrive as early as possible, ideally on a weekday morning.
Is Umpqua Hot Springs clothing optional?
As at most hot springs, nudity is common. Umpqua Hot Springs is no exception, as it’s a popular site that attracts naturists. If you are uncomfortable seeing naked bodies, you may wish to skip this visit.
What to Pack
- Sturdy Footwear: The 0.4-mile trail is steep and often slippery. Wear hiking boots or shoes with excellent traction rather than flip-flops.
- Water Sandals: Bring a pair of water-safe sandals or shoes to protect your feet while navigating between the rocky, tiered pools.
- Swimsuit (Optional): These springs are clothing-optional. If you bring a suit, choose a dark color, as minerals in the water can stain light fabrics.
- Quick-Dry Towel: A lightweight microfiber towel is ideal for drying off and staying warm after your soak.
- Dry Bag: Use a waterproof bag to keep your dry clothes and electronics safe from the wet environment near the pools.
- Hydration: Bring plenty of fresh water in a reusable bottle to prevent dehydration from the hot geothermal water.
- Pass or Cash: A $5 day fee is required. You can also use a Northwest Forest Pass or an America the Beautiful (National Parks) pass.
Winter Add-Ons (November – April)
- Traction Devices: Since the access road is gated in winter, bring microspikes or snowshoes for the additional 2-mile hike.
- Insulating Layers: Pack a warm fleece or down jacket to change into immediately after soaking to avoid a rapid chill.
- Headlamp: If you plan to visit for sunrise or sunset, a hands-free light source is vital for the hike back.
Directions to Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead
Umpqua Hot Springs Map – Statewide Oregon Hot Springs Map
Reaching Umpqua Hot Springs requires a journey deep into the Umpqua National Forest, as it is located at least 100 miles from the nearest major city. Given its remote location, over 230 miles from Portland, these springs are best enjoyed as a weekend or multi-day getaway.
Getting to the Trailhead
- From Medford or Crater Lake: Take OR-62 to OR-230, then follow Hwy 138 West. Turn onto Forest Road 34 near milepost 59.
- From Bend: Travel south on US-97 and transition to OR-138 West past Chemult.
- From Portland: Travel south on I-5 and transition to OR-138 West near Roseburg.
- The Final Stretch: Turn onto Forest Road 34 (Toketee-Rigdon Rd) for 2.2 miles, then right on FR 3401 for the remaining 2 miles.
- Vehicle Tip: A high-clearance vehicle is advised due to rough road conditions and deep potholes.
The Hike to Umpqua Hot Springs
The hike to Umpqua Hot Springs is short but intense, gaining elevation quickly as you climb toward the pools. Most hikers reach the hot pool at the summit in roughly 15 minutes.
Hiking Instructions
- Start: Cross the narrow footbridge located at the Basket Butte Road parking area.
- Initial Climb: Follow the trail to the right for 0.2 miles.
- The Fork: At the first major junction, take another right to stay on the path toward the springs.
- Arrival: Continue uphill for 0.2 miles until you arrive at the top pool and wooden shelter.
Video: Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon: An Otherworldly Place!
Where to Camp Near Umpqua Hot Springs
While camping is strictly prohibited at the hot springs themselves, several excellent options are located just a short drive away.
Primitive Forest Camping
- Toketee Lake Campground: Located only 3 miles (8 minutes) from the trailhead, this is the most convenient choice. It offers 32 sites for roughly $16 per night and is open year-round. Note that sites are reservations-only and must be booked at least 2 days in advance.
- East Lemolo Campground: Situated 4.6 miles (13 minutes) away, this primitive spot features 15 reservations-only sites. It is open seasonally from May through October and provides a quieter alternative to Toketee.
Resorts & Glamping
- Umpqua’s Last Resort: For those seeking more comfort, this resort is 16 miles away and offers a mix of cabins, tiny homes, glamping tents, and RV spots. Rates start at $44 for RV sites and range up to $199+ for deluxe cabins. Non-guests can also stop here for $5 hot showers.
- Lemolo Lake KOA Resort: Located 10 miles away, this newly updated resort features lakefront cabins, RV hookups, and a general store. It’s a great base for families, offering boat rentals and weekend casual dining.
Amenities
Because these springs are located deep in the Umpqua National Forest, services are extremely limited. Cell service typically drops off shortly after you pass the town of Glide.
- Dry Creek Store: Your last stop for gas, ice, and basic groceries. Located 16 miles west of the springs next to Umpqua’s Last Resort.
- Lemolo Lake KOA: Offers a small general store and seasonal weekend dining, located about 10 miles away.
- Pro Tip: Download offline maps before your trip, as GPS can be unreliable in the canyon.
Hot Springs Etiquette & Tips
To keep Umpqua Hot Springs beautiful and open for everyone, please follow these “Leave No Trace” principles:
- Pack it Out: There is no trash service at the springs. Bring a trash bag to pack out all waste, including items left by others.
- No Glass: For safety, never bring glass containers or alcohol near the pools.
- No Soap: Do not use soap, shampoo or even biodegradable cleansers in the pools, as they contaminate the delicate mineral water.
Umpqua Hot Springs Soak Stats:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Season | All (access road closed during winter = 2-mile snowbound hike-in) – check road conditions |
| Type | Roadside/Hike |
| Map Quad & GPS | Toketee Falls 15 or Potter Mountain USGS 7.5 Minute or Umpqua National Forest Map (GPS: 43.2933174, -122.3649609) |
| Elevation | 2,640 ft |
| Land Management | Umpqua National Forest |
| Temperature | 100°F to 115°F (37.8°C – 46.1°C) |
| Water Clarity & pH | Murky (pH: n/a) |
| Usage & Visibility | High / Moderate |
| Fee & Restrictions | $5 day pass (or recreation pass); No camping at springs |
| Camping Nearby | Toketee Lake, East Lemolo and others |
| Amenities | Pit Toilet (near trailhead); Dogs on leash allowed |
Road to Umpqua Hot Springs in Oregon Temporarily Closed for Winter
Recent snow at Toketee, OR, and more snow forecasted, prompted Forest Service employees to close a gate to the road leading to the Umpqua Hot Springs. If the snow eases up, you can call the Toketee Ranger Station at 541-498-2531 to find out if the gate has been re-opened.
Visitors planning to soak in the Umpqua Hot Springs on the Umpqua National Forest, near Toketee, should plan to hike, snow shoe, or ski the last 2.5 miles. A temporary gate just past the junction of Forest Roads 34 and 3401 is installed to prevent vehicles from getting stuck in the snow on the way to the hot springs. Visitors are cautioned that as snow melts near the gate, often icy roads and snowy conditions exist further up the road to the hot springs.
Closing the gate will address public safety by limiting vehicle access to a plowed parking area at the junction of the two roads. This action comes at the request of the Douglas County Sheriff’s office and Toketee residents to gate the road during the winter months to reduce adverse impacts on the Sheriff’s office and search and rescue personnel. Douglas County responded to about 165 calls for service at the hot springs from 2003 to 2010, resulting in multiple search-and-rescue calls. “Last year was the first time we closed the gate during winter, and as a result, there were no search and rescue calls to the hot springs,” according to Aaron Grimes, Forest Recreation Staff.
Visitors are encouraged to be prepared for adverse weather and winter road conditions when heading out to enjoy the winter beauty of the hot springs. “There are no trash receptacles at the site, so, whatever you pack in please pack out, so that we can maintain the beauty of the site,” stated Grimes. Temperatures at Umpqua Hot Springs range from 92-102 degrees Fahrenheit.
Anyone who was at Hotsprings this week plz look me up on FBook and send me a message it’s urgent my FBook is Alicia Dawn
The one down at the river is the best.
Umpqua Hot Springs Closed Due to Health Concerns http://www.kdrv.com/news/Umpqua_Hot_Springs_Closed_Due_to_Health_Concerns_.html
Is anyone from the grants pass area going up to the umpua hot springs today?
I’m a 45, 5’9, 150,
Super casual, easygoing fun and outgoing gay gu
There are many Alicia Dawns on Facebook! Be more specific
Visited Umpqua Hot Springs today, which is, my first time ever to a natural hot springs. All I can is, I’m hooked! Since it was during the work week, it was not crowded in the least. When they state clothing is optional, they weren’t kidding. Although, I have to say, everyone was very respectful and I certainly didn’t feel awkward disrobing. I would highly recommend visiting this amazing geological wonder! Oh, and I walked away feeling awesome!
Yay Corrine! Stoked you had such an awesome experience. The hot springs need more people like you visiting them! ?
Heading that way with my kids hope there is not too many naked people lol
Going to try hit this spot tomorrow morning, shooting for a 7-7:30am arrival on a Tuesday just to maximize my odds of seeing it as close to natural/ empty as I can. Based on comments here and on GMaps it sounds like mornings mid week are pretty laid back up there. So far I’ve hit Lassen, Shasta-Trinity, Redwood Ntn’l, and Jedediah Smith all since Friday 🙂 30+ miles of hiking means my legs could probably use this one.
I’ve been to several of Idaho’s natural hot springs which are plentiful in the central/southern region of Idaho… from roadside tubs to 5+ mile back country hikes. Each and evry one magical and healing. I’m a hot springer for life! – Ready to head South and check Umpqua off my list in a couple of weeks, can’t wait!
I was there November 4 th 2016. It was really clean and nice. There were nice people. There are different pools. The one at the back is the hottest.
We visited 10-NOV-16 and the springs were absolutely gorgeous, very clean and very tidy. They are extremely well maintained. These are definitely my new favorite hotsprings!
The outhouses on the other hand were not. The one by the springs was filled with garbage looked disgusting. and the one in the parking lot was full to almost over flowing. They are both in desperate need of attention & maintenance.
This hot spring is the nastiest ever , don’t go not worth it also when it says don’t park on the road, DON’T DO IT, unless you want a 100 dollar parking ticket. Wen me and my bf went it was gross and this was just this summer, a week later there was a report about how people got sick from salmonella. I REPEAT DON’T GO!!!!
Temporary road closure – can still get to the hot springs but will need to hike an extra 1.5 miles in. Deets: https://soakoregon.com/site-news/umpqua-hot-springs-temporary-road-closure/