Borax Lake (Hot Lake)
Borax Lake, also known as Hot Lake, maintains 97°F water at 4,083 feet elevation in Harney County's high desert, protected under permanent conservation status by a non-governmental organization. The site sits 2,467 feet from Borax Lake Road, requiring a short walk to reach this unique geothermal feature flowing 45 degrees above ambient temperature. Public access status remains unknown due to the conservation designation and private ownership structure.
The lake occupies a shallow basin in the arid country south of Hines, where sagebrush and greasewood dominate vegetation in terrain receiving just 9.4 inches of annual precipitation and 21 inches of snow. At 4,083 feet elevation, the site sits in typical Great Basin topography with flat to gently rolling terrain stretching toward Steens Mountain to the south. The thermal lake creates a rare wetland oasis in this desert environment, supporting aquatic life including the endemic Borax Lake chub, a federally protected fish species found nowhere else. The lake's warm, alkaline waters create conditions unlike surrounding cold-water habitats.
The lake's name reflects borax mining interests in the region during the late 1800s and early 1900s, when borax deposits were commercially extracted from playas and alkaline lakes across the Great Basin. The endemic chub population led to federal protection efforts and eventual acquisition by The Nature Conservancy to preserve the unique ecosystem. Indigenous peoples including the Northern Paiute inhabited this region and knew of the thermal springs and lakes. The site now serves conservation purposes rather than recreation.
Do not attempt to visit without first confirming access permission from the land manager, as the conservation designation and presence of endangered species may restrict entry. The Borax Lake chub requires protection from disturbance. Summer temperatures in this desert basin can exceed 95°F, while winter brings cold and occasional snow. South Steens Campground lies 23.7 miles distant, offering primitive Bureau of Land Management camping. The lake's ecological sensitivity takes precedence over recreational use.
Is Borax Lake (Hot Lake) worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Overview:South Steens Campground is located in the heart of Steens Mountain. Visitors will find picnic tables and grills at 36 family campsites amid juniper and sage. The equestrian site, designed specifically for horse users, is directly adjacent to the family campground. Recreational stock (horses, mules, llamas, goats, etc.) are not allowed in the family portion of South Steens Campground, but are welcome and comfortable at 15 equestrian sites complete with tie posts and small corrals.Know...