Foley Springs
Foley Springs emerges at 178°F in the Cascade Range of Lane County, making it one of Oregon's hottest thermal features with recent USGS measurements confirming 78.4°C water temperature. The spring flows 126.6°F above ambient at 1,860 feet elevation, located 102 meters from Horse Creek Road with sulfate concentrations of 527 mg/L indicating deep volcanic circulation through the Cascade geothermal system.
The spring emerges in the dense old-growth forests characteristic of the western Cascades, where Douglas fir and western red cedar dominate slopes receiving 64.2 inches of precipitation and 156.9 inches of snow annually—creating Oregon's wettest thermal spring environment. The McKenzie River valley provides the geographic context, with Horse Creek feeding into the larger watershed from forested slopes at 1,860 feet elevation. Volcanic bedrock and Cascade Range faulting create the conduits for deep geothermal circulation, with the springs emerging in lush forest conditions contrasting dramatically with Oregon's arid basin hot springs.
Foley Springs was developed as a resort in the early 1900s, capitalizing on the hot mineral waters and scenic Cascade location to attract visitors from Eugene and the Willamette Valley. The resort operated for decades, offering bathhouses and accommodations until closing in the late 20th century. The springs retain their name from the Foley family development, though current status and public access remain unclear without recent site verification. The extreme temperature and high sulfate content made the waters notable for purported therapeutic properties during the resort era.
The 178°F temperature makes direct contact extremely dangerous; any use requires substantial cooling and extreme caution. Paradise Campground, 3.7 kilometers away along the McKenzie River, provides developed camping with reservations recommended for summer visits. The area is accessible year-round via Highway 126, though heavy winter snowfall affects surrounding forest roads. The wet climate means rain is common even in summer; bring waterproof gear. Combine with McKenzie River Trail hikes, whitewater rafting, and visits to nearby waterfalls for a complete Cascade experience.
Is Foley Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
Overview Paradise Campground is indeed a paradise for campers. Tucked within a lush, old-growth forest of Douglas fir and western red cedar, the area portrays a sub-tropical vibe along the banks of the McKenzie River, where catch-and-release trout and steelhead fishing is a popular activity, along with whitewater rafting and kayaking.Recreation Rafters and kayakers live it up in the whitewater of the McKenzie River. A boat ramp is located on-site. The McKenzie River National Recreation Trail...