At 190°F, the source water at Barry Ranch Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
File:M 4212054 sw 10 060 20200715.tif — public domain
Barry Ranch Hot Springs flows at 190°F just 98 feet from US Highway 395, ranking among Oregon's hottest roadside-accessible thermal features. The spring emerges at 4,746 feet elevation in Lake County near Lakeview, flowing 142 degrees above the ambient air temperature of 47.6°F. This is a drive-up thermal feature requiring minimal effort to access.
The spring sits in the high desert country of south-central Oregon at the edge of the Great Basin, where sagebrush and juniper dominate the vegetation at elevations approaching 5,000 feet. US Highway 395 runs north-south through this landscape, connecting Lakeview to points north in the ranching country of Lake County. The terrain receives 19.6 inches of annual precipitation, with 68.3 inches falling as snow during the winter months. The immediate area reflects typical high desert land use, with cattle ranching operations scattered across the benchlands and valley floors.
History of Barry Ranch Hot Springs
The spring takes its name from the Barry family ranch that operated in this section of Lake County. Documentation of the spring's early use remains limited in published sources. The 1980 NOAA thermal springs survey cataloged the feature at its current high temperature, though historical development details have not been widely recorded. The spring continues to flow on what was historically private ranch land in the Lakeview vicinity.
Visit during summer and fall when Highway 395 remains fully open and temperatures moderate. Winter brings heavy snow to this 4,746-foot elevation, making access challenging despite the roadside location. The extreme 190°F water temperature makes direct contact dangerous without cooling. The nearest developed camping lies 12 miles distant at Aspen Cabin in the Fremont-Winema National Forest, requiring Recreation.gov reservations.
Is Barry Ranch Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Barry Ranch Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
30°Jan
31°Feb
36°Mar
43°Apr
52°May
61°Jun
72°Jul
71°Aug
62°Sep
49°Oct
37°Nov
28°Dec
Annual Precip: 19.6 inAnnual Snow: 68.3 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 28°F · Water 190°F · +162° contrast
JanuaryAir 30°F · Water 190°F · +160° contrast
FebruaryAir 31°F · Water 190°F · +159° contrast
December offers 43°F more contrast than August
Nearby Camping
Aspen Cabin (Fremont Winema National Forest, Or)12.1 mi away
Overview
Historic Aspen Cabin is nestled in a forest of fir, pine, and aspen, and provides an ideal setting for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in the Fremont-Winema National Forest. It was built in 1930 and originally used as an administrative cabin and fire guard station by U.S. Forest Service employees.
It also served as a warming shelter for snowmobilers and cross-country skiers during the 1990s. Today, the cabin offers guests a secluded getaway in a landscape abundant with wil...
What is the water temperature at Barry Ranch Hot Springs?
Barry Ranch Hot Springs has a water temperature of 190°F (88°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Barry Ranch Hot Springs located?
Barry Ranch Hot Springs is located in Lake County, Oregon at 4,746 feet elevation, near Lakeview. Coordinates: 42.1560°N, 120.3450°W.
How do I get to Barry Ranch Hot Springs?
Barry Ranch Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being US Highway 395 (97 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Barry Ranch Hot Springs?
Yes, Aspen Cabin (Fremont Winema National Forest, Or) is located nearby (12.1 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Barry Ranch Hot Springs?
The water at Barry Ranch Hot Springs reaches 190°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Barry Ranch Hot Springs crowded?
Barry Ranch Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Barry Ranch Hot Springs?
Essentials for Barry Ranch Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.