Hot Lake Springs
Hot Lake Springs emerges at 176°F in Union County near the town of Union, creating one of Oregon's hottest thermal features 44 meters from the nearest road. The spring arrives more than 127 degrees above the area's 49°F average air temperature, producing dramatic steam displays during cold weather. The site has supported commercial resort operations since 1864, when Oregon's first geothermal building heating system was installed.
The spring flows in the Grande Ronde Valley at approximately 2,700 feet elevation, where broad agricultural flats extend between the Wallowa Mountains to the east and the Blue Mountains to the west. Annual precipitation totals 28.9 inches with 74.6 inches of snow. The valley floor features irrigated farmland with cottonwood and willow along riparian corridors. The thermal feature creates a small lake that historically drew waterfowl. Moss Springs Campground lies 22 kilometers east on forested ridges above Cove, where trails descend into the Minam River drainage and Eagle Cap Wilderness.
The Hot Lake Hotel, built in 1864 and later known as Hot Lake Sanatorium, operated as a luxury resort advertising medicinal mineral water attributes that drew visitors worldwide. The site pioneered geothermal heating, making it the first known commercial building globally to utilize this technology. The facility served various functions through the 20th century before recent restoration efforts. Indigenous groups used the thermal waters long before Euro-American settlement.
The site operates as a private facility; verify current access status before visiting. The 176°F water requires substantial cooling for bathing. Winter visits showcase the most dramatic steam displays but require preparation for snow and cold. Summer temperatures are more moderate. Moss Springs Campground 22 kilometers east provides camping access to Eagle Cap Wilderness trails. Combine with visits to historic downtown Union or Wallowa Mountain scenic drives.
Is Hot Lake Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
Located above Cove, Oregon, the Moss Springs Campground lies on a ridgeline within view of the Eagle Cap Wilderness and is next to Moss Springs Trailhead. This popular campground was constructed to accommodate visitors with packstock, riding stock and campers bound for the wilderness. The site also has 3 accessible campsites and toilets. Trails from the campground drop steeply into the Minam River drainage or follow Grande Ronde Ridge.