Belknap Springs
Belknap Springs flows at 160°F along the McKenzie River in the Cascade Range, emerging just 510 feet from North Belknap Springs Road at 1,644 feet elevation. Recent USGS measurements record 69.5°C at monitoring points, though source temperatures reach higher. The springs have been developed into a private resort near Sisters in Deschutes County, with water chemistry showing high chloride (1,400 mg/L) and sodium (670 mg/L) concentrations.
The springs emerge along the forested banks of the McKenzie River in the western Cascades, surrounded by dense stands of Douglas fir and western red cedar that thrive in this high-precipitation zone. The site sits at 1,644 feet elevation where the river has carved a valley through volcanic bedrock, creating a narrow corridor between forested mountain slopes. Annual precipitation reaches 64.2 inches, with winter snowfall totaling 156.9 inches, supporting the lush temperate rainforest vegetation. The McKenzie River flows clear and cold, fed by springs and snowmelt from the High Cascades to the east.
Belknap Springs takes its name from R.S. Belknap, who acquired the property in 1870 and developed the first resort facilities around the natural hot springs. The springs had been known to local Molalla and Kalapuya peoples before Euro-American settlement. By the 1890s, a hotel and bathhouse operated at the site. The current resort continues this tradition of commercial development, maintaining pools and lodging fed by the thermal springs. The McKenzie Highway provided improved access starting in the 1920s.
The private resort requires payment for access to the developed pools and facilities. Summer and fall offer the most reliable road access, though Highway 126 along the McKenzie remains open year-round with occasional winter closures. The massive snowfall of 156+ inches creates avalanche hazard on surrounding slopes December through March. Limberlost Campground lies 1.3 miles distant, offering Forest Service camping with reservations. Combine with exploration of the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail.
Is Belknap Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
The water at Belknap Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.9). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview After a fun filled day exploring the area, relax and fall asleep to the sound of the babbling Lost Creek at this secluded and quiet Group site that's made up of 12 sites. Towering Douglas fir and cedar trees surround this small, rustic and compact campground. The campground’s name was derived from "Girl of the Limberlost," a classic novel by American writer and naturalist, Gene Stratton-Porter. The campground offers vault toilets and garbage service. Each campsite includes a fire rin...