Fivemile Spring (Hoghouse Hot Sprs)
Fivemile Spring, also known as Hoghouse Hot Springs, flows at 80°F within the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge at 4,178 feet elevation, emerging just 83 meters from Frenchglen Highway. The spring flows 29.1°F above ambient temperature on federal land managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, though public access remains restricted to protect refuge resources and wildlife habitat in this arid basin environment.
The spring emerges along Frenchglen Highway at the southern edge of the Malheur refuge in terrain receiving 12.6 inches of precipitation and 27.7 inches of snow annually. The landscape features alkali flats, greasewood, and riparian corridors in the shadow of Steens Mountain, which rises dramatically to the west. The roadside location places the spring near the transition zone between valley floor wetlands and the alluvial fans spreading from mountain canyons. Historic ranch structures give context to the 'Hoghouse' name, reflecting livestock infrastructure incorporated into the refuge management system.
The dual names—Fivemile Spring and Hoghouse Hot Springs—reflect both geographic reference and functional use. 'Fivemile' likely indicates distance from a historical reference point, possibly Frenchglen or another ranch headquarters. 'Hoghouse' directly references livestock facilities, as hog operations were not uncommon on isolated ranches where hot water provided warmth for animal husbandry. The spring's integration into Malheur refuge after 1908 establishment preserved these naming conventions while transitioning the water source from agricultural to wildlife management purposes.
The restricted access status means visitors cannot legally approach the spring without refuge coordination, despite its roadside location along public Frenchglen Highway. Page Springs Campground, 9.6 kilometers away with reservable sites, serves visitors exploring Steens Mountain and the refuge's southern unit. The area is best visited in spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) for birding, with summer temperatures exceeding 95°F and winter conditions often below freezing. Respect closures and view the spring from the roadway only.
Is Fivemile Spring (Hoghouse Hot Sprs) worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Page Springs Campground is located at the base of Steens Mountain, just three miles from the town of Frenchglen, Oregon. Thrity-six roomy campsites situated under cottonwood and juniper trees and near the Donner and Blitzen River welcome visitors year-round. The campground serves as the trailhead for two short hikes: the Blitzen River Trail meanders four miles up the river, while the Wilderness Nature Trail climbs gradually to the top of the bluff overlooking the valley floor and l...