Jackson WellSprings – Ashland, Oregon

Jackson WellSprings is the perfect place to take the whole family or a group of friends on a laid-back hot springs retreat not too far from a small town. It’s a 30+ acre piece of land just outside of Ashland, Oregon, a picturesque small town by the California border known for its yearly Shakespeare Festival.

With as much as there is to do here, you’d be hard-pressed to get bored. Deeming itself an “ecoresort and wellness center,” there is something for everyone to enjoy.

 

Initially used by First Nation tribes as a ceremonial and birthing place, Jackson WellSprings was said to have been a place of peace. Weapons were kept far from the area as no arrowheads or spears had been found in the vicinity. Originally attracted to the warm waters, the indigenous soon recognized the restorative properties of the sulfur and minerals within them.

In 1862, Jackson Wellspring was designated a healing pool and sanitarium. Another five decades later, the public was welcomed to swim and bathe. Positioned near a stagecoach route and train tracks, people came from San Francisco to Seattle.

Hot Springs Pools and Spa

Jackson Wellsprings is the kind of place you’ll want to spend some time visiting. The main attractions on-site are the pools. The first is an Olympic-sized, naturally-fed swimming pool that sits in a peaceful area surrounded by lush trees. It’s a winner for kids and adults alike. There is also a nearby warm water soaking pool or private soaking pools for those less inclined to share.

Temperatures of the pools range from 80℉ (27℃) to 120℉ (49℃) for comfortable swimming year-round. Specially scheduled swims include public family-friendly (swimsuits required), public adults-only (18+ clothing optional), and ladies-only nights.

For a full day of relaxation, wander into the spa. You can rest in the sauna or steam room after a massage, a facial, or bodywork. And when all is said and done, the Springs Garden Cafe is just a few steps away to fill your stomach with delicious treats and organic produce from the garden outside.

Other Activities

If you’re looking for a more active day at the springs, the staff offers classes in the on-site community room. Various types of yoga, dance, and meditation fill the current schedule, and there are occasional special events that spill into other areas of the property.

For those looking to spend some time alone and explore the grounds, there are two gardens worth visiting. While one boasts produce that is used at the cafe, another features an array of colorful flowers and plants. For those interested in volunteering, Jackson Wellsprings has opportunities.

Meanwhile, for those in the Jewish community, you can also visit the Mikvah, with a scheduled appointment.

Camping and Glamping

Those hoping to spend the night can camp on the property. There are a handful of choices:

• Meadow — Boondock in your car/van camping and tent sites
• RV Sites – Full hook-ups and pull-through sites
• Domes – These locking structures have beds, electricity and heat
• Bell Tents – Basic canvas structure with electricity on a wooden deck.
• Tipi – Basic canvas structure on earth floor

Restroom and shower facilities are available to share, as well as laundry options.

Getting There

This relaxation center is just on the north side of Ashland with one entrance off West Jackson Road and another off Highway 99 and South Valley View Road. From the intersection of the latter, drive north on Highway 99 until you see the Jackson Hot Springs sign on the left.

Details

Address: 2253 Highway 99 North, Ashland, Oregon 97520

Phone: 541-482-3776

Season: Pools and RV camping (year-round) | Camping (closed during winter)

Swimsuits: Required during Family-Friendly Soaking Sessions; Adult (18+) is clothing-optional

Website: jacksonwellsprings.com