Alvord Hot Springs: How to Visit, Soak & Stay in Oregon’s High Desert
Hidden in southeastern Oregon, far from cities and crowds, Alvord Hot Springs sits at the edge of the vast Alvord Desert — one of the most remote landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Here, the views stretch for miles, and the silence is broken only by the sound of bubbling geothermal water. In this guide, we share everything you need to know before your visit — how to get there, what to expect, entrance fees, camping options, and essential tips for soaking in this desert oasis. Based on our firsthand experience, we’ll help you plan the perfect relaxing stop on your Oregon road trip.
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Our Experiences Visiting Alvord Hot Springs
Chris and I discovered Alvord Hot Springs during our long Oregon road trip through the state’s high desert. After spending time exploring the Alvord Desert, we stopped here for a well-deserved soak — and it quickly became one of our favorite Oregon memories.
We spent the afternoon relaxing in the steaming pools, surrounded by the silence of the desert and the dramatic Steens Mountain Range rising in the background. The setting felt completely untouched — no crowds, just the sound of water and the wind.
The soaking pools at Alvord Hot Springs are very small and intimate—each one holds just a few people, creating a cozy, personal atmosphere that fits perfectly with the quiet desert surroundings.
Later, we stayed overnight at the nearby campground with our camper truck, watching the night sky fill with thousands of stars.
On the same trip, we also visited Crystal Crane Hot Springs near Burns. It wasn’t as rustic as Alvord, but equally peaceful and remote. If soaking and relaxing in natural hot springs is your idea of the perfect getaway, it’s easy to combine both places in one trip — balancing the solitude of the desert with the comfort of a full hot spring resort.
How to Get to Alvord Hot Springs
Reaching Alvord Hot Springs is an adventure in itself. The springs sit at the western edge of Oregon’s Alvord Desert — one of the most isolated regions in the state — so getting there requires a bit of preparation and patience.
The hot springs are located in Harney County, about 25 miles southeast of Fields and 140 miles from Burns. The final stretch takes you along Fields–Denio Road, a gravel route surrounded by wide-open desert and the dramatic slopes of Steens Mountain. The drive is slow but incredibly scenic.
- From Burns: Take Highway 78 east for about 65 miles to Folly Farm Road (Fields–Denio Road). Continue south for roughly 43 miles until you reach the clearly marked Alvord Hot Springs entrance.
- From Bend: It’s about a 4.5-hour drive (roughly 240 miles). Follow US-20 east to Burns, then continue as above.
- From Fields: Head north on Fields–Denio Road for about 23 miles. The hot springs will be on your right.
There are no gas stations or services between Burns and Fields, so fill up your tank, bring plenty of water, and carry a paper map or offline GPS. Cell service is nearly nonexistent once you leave the main highways.
If you’re exploring more of the state, our Oregon guide includes the best places, routes, and travel tips.
Facilities and Soaking Pools at Alvord Hot Springs
Alvord Hot Springs keeps things simple and true to its desert roots. Don’t expect luxury or spa-style amenities — the magic here lies in its remote location, peaceful atmosphere, and steamy mineral pools surrounded by the vast emptiness of Oregon’s Alvord Desert.
The property is privately owned and maintained by the Davis family, who also operate a small general store and reception cabin near the entrance. When you arrive, check in at the front desk to pay your admission fee and get updates on current conditions. The store sells drinks, snacks, towels, propane, and bottled water, and there’s a restroom on-site.
Fees (as of 2025):
- Day-use soaking: approximately $20 per adult
- Children under 12 and U.S. military: free soaking
- Overnight camping or bunkhouses: start around $40–$100 per night, depending on the season and accommodation type
Since prices can change, it’s best to confirm rates on the official website before your visit.
Soaking Pools
The site features two rectangular concrete soaking pools — one partially covered by a corrugated metal shelter, and the other open to the desert air with sweeping views of Steens Mountain. Each pool fits around two to four people comfortably.
- The natural spring water flows from the ground at about 174°F (79°C) and is cooled to a soaking temperature between 100°F and 110°F (37°C–43°C).
- Two pipes feed the water — one hot and one cold — so you can easily adjust the temperature.
- The pools were originally built in the 1940s and have been maintained in a rustic, minimalist style ever since.
There’s also a small changing hut beside the pools and a few benches and platforms for towels or bags. The smell of sulfur is faint, the breeze carries desert air, and the silence stretches for miles — creating an atmosphere that feels truly timeless.
Rules and Etiquette at Alvord Hot Springs
Alvord Hot Springs is a peaceful, private retreat where visitors come to unwind, disconnect, and soak in the serenity of the desert. To keep the place clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone, guests are asked to follow a few simple but important rules.
1. Respect the Quiet and the Space
This is a place for relaxation and reflection — not a party spot. Keep your voice low, avoid playing music, and give other visitors their personal space. If the pools are full, wait your turn rather than crowding others.
2. Clothing Optional — Be Respectful
Swimwear is optional at Alvord Hot Springs. Some guests prefer to soak nude, others wear swimsuits. Whatever you choose, be respectful of others’ comfort and privacy. Never take photos of other guests without explicit permission.
3. Keep the Pools Clean
Do not use soap, shampoo, or any cosmetics in or around the pools — even biodegradable products harm the fragile desert ecosystem. Avoid eating or drinking directly in the water.
4. No Alcohol or Glass Containers
Alcohol and glass are not allowed near or in the soaking area. Both pose safety risks, especially in hot water and slippery surroundings.
5. Leave No Trace
Pack out everything you bring — even food scraps or biodegradable waste. The desert environment is delicate, and trash can linger for decades. Respect this land so future travelers can enjoy it, too.
6. Be Cautious with Temperature
The water can reach over 100°F (37°C), so limit your soak time if you start feeling lightheaded or overheated. Always stay hydrated — bring and drink plenty of water.
7. Night Soaking and Stargazing
If you’re staying overnight, the pools are open late into the night. Stargazing here is extraordinary — just be mindful of lighting, noise, and safety when walking between the pools and campground.
Camping and Lodging at Alvord Hot Springs
If you want to extend your desert experience, staying overnight at Alvord Hot Springs is a great idea. The setting is peaceful, remote, and ideal for watching sunsets, stargazing, and early-morning soaks in the steaming pools.
The property offers several accommodation options — all simple, rustic, and designed to match the quiet atmosphere of Oregon’s high desert.
Campsites
There are only a handful of campsites located near the soaking area and throughout the property. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring, though fires are allowed only when conditions are safe. The terrain is mostly level gravel, and sites can accommodate tents, vans, or small RVs (no hookups).
Camping starts at around $40–$50 per night, with access to the hot pools included from check-in to check-out. Restrooms, showers, and a small kitchen area are available for guest use. Because there are only a few sites, advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially in summer and fall.
Bunkhouses
For those who prefer a roof overhead, six basic bunkhouses are available to rent. They’re clean, simple, and air-conditioned but do not include bedding, so bring your own sleeping bag or linens. Each unit accommodates up to four people, making them great for couples or small groups.
Rates start at about $100 per night for two people, and you’ll have unlimited soaking access.
Amenities
Guests also have access to:
- Restrooms and hot showers
- Community kitchen with a stove, fridge, and microwave
- Outdoor seating areas to relax after soaking
The overall vibe is laid-back and social but never noisy. The combination of quiet desert views, hot mineral water, and a night sky bursting with stars makes Alvord Hot Springs one of Oregon’s most unique overnight experiences.
Final Thoughts
Alvord Hot Springs is one of those rare places where time seems to slow down. Surrounded by the vast emptiness of Oregon’s desert, soaking here feels both peaceful and surreal. The pools may be small and simple, but that’s exactly what makes them special — it’s just you, the warm water, and the endless horizon.
Chris and I combined our visit with Crystal Crane Hot Springs and a night on the Alvord Desert playa, creating the perfect balance between remote adventure and pure relaxation. If you enjoy solitude, starry skies, and the feeling of being completely off the grid, this corner of Oregon will capture your heart just as it did ours.
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