Only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year, Ritter Hot Springs in Long Creek, Oregon is a basic, seasonal hot spring resort characterized by a rich history dating back to the nineteenth century. Ritter Hot Springs is not an upscale, fancy resort, but it offers simple accommodations, beautiful views, and, most importantly, a variety of pools and tubs filled with healing mineral water.
History
Located in the middle of northeastern Oregon off U.S. Highway 395 in Grant County, Ritter Hot Springs is decidedly remote. The source that gives Ritter Hot Springs its natural mineral water was discovered by settlers in 1850.
In the decades after, the area flourished into a small community. Today, the General Store, which was constructed in 1894, still stands, serving as evidence of the rich history of the site.
Hot Spring Pools
Naturally heated mineral water continually flows from a source located across the John Day River. A suspension bridge leads guests across the river and towards the source and four old cement tubs. Water emerges from the source at 109°F before being piped to the four tubs and across the river to the main resort area.
The main pool of the resort is approximately forty feet by sixty feet, and it has a maximum depth of six feet. The constant 85° F water flow to this pool maintains sanitation requirements, so no water treatment is needed.
Besides the tubs and large pool, Ritter Hot Springs also offers a primitive, riverside shower. Here, water streams from a showerhead at high pressure, providing a relaxing back and neck massage. Additionally, there are conventional showers and restrooms in the changing area of the resort.
Day passes are available for the pool and tubs for visitors who are not staying on the resort property for a small fee.
Accommodations
The accommodations at Ritter Hot Springs follow suit with the rest of the resort: simple but comfortable. The on-site hotel contains eight rooms with a variety of different bed arrangements that share a common bathroom.
For those hoping for more privacy, Ritter Hot Springs also offers two cabins. These accommodations feature two bedrooms and a sleeping loft, with a max occupancy of seven people. The cabins contain a full kitchen, a private bathroom, and as a bonus, one of the cabins comes with a private hot tub.
Finally, Ritter Hot Springs provides basic campsites for both tent and RV campers. There is no food available anywhere on the property, but there is a small kitchen with a microwave, refrigerator, freezer, and gas grill available for the resort’s guests.
Details
Address: Ritter Hot Spur Rd, Long Creek, OR 97856
Phone: 541-421-3846
Season: Summer | Memorial Day to Labor Day | Closed Friday evening – Saturday
Admission: Fee for day guests
Website: ritterhotsprings.com
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