Situated on the edge of the Alvord Desert, Alvord Hot Springs, in Princeton, Oregon, provides visitors with two primitive, geothermal pools featuring breathtaking views of the nearby desert and mountains.
Known for its remarkable simplicity, Alvord Hot Springs focuses on minimizing complexity to ensure a relaxing, invigorating experience. There are no fancy accommodations and cell service is nonexistent, but Alvord Hot Springs’ minimalistic approach provides the perfect opportunity for reconnecting to nature.
Hot Spring Pools
Alvord Hot Springs features two simple, concrete-lined pools that were created in the 1940s. Geothermally heated mineral water emerges from the ground at 170°F and is cooled, hovering around 105°F year-round.
The facilities at Alvord Hot Springs are modest. The pools are surrounded by a small wooden deck with a few benches. Near the pools, guests will find a bathroom and a small store/reception center offering basic items like drinks and towels.
Note: Those who do not plan on staying overnight at Alvord Hot Springs must pay a daily soaking fee as well as an entrance fee to the private road that leads to the springs.
Bunkhouses and Camping
For those who are hoping to extend their visit into the evening, Alvord has six basic bunkhouses available for rent on a nightly basis. When staying in the bunkhouses, which accommodate between 2-4 people, visitors should be aware that bedding is not provided. Additionally, there is no direct access to a bathroom from the bunkhouses, so guests have to take a short walk to the restroom facilities located nearby. The property also contains eight campsites available for rent. Just like the bunkhouses, the campsites are located a short walk away from the restroom. For those wishing to bring their pets, dogs are welcome at the campground as long as they are on a leash, but they cannot enter the soaking pools.
Both the bunkhouses and campsites provide twenty-four-hour access to the hot spring pools, with no additional fee required for soaking or accessing the private road.
When planning an overnight trip to Alvord Hot Springs, make sure to take an evening dip in the pools. On clear nights, the view of the star-filled sky is unparalleled! Another local mineral bathing option in the high desert is Willow Creek Hot Springs, so consider making a day of pool hopping.
Details
Address: 36095 E Steens Rd Princeton, Oregon 97721
Phone: 541-589-2282
Season: Year-Round
Website: alvordhotsprings.com
Willow Creek Hot Springs – Fields, Oregon