Jonesboro Warm Spring flows at 112°F, registering 58 degrees above ambient at 2,847 feet elevation in Malheur County. The spring requires a 102-meter walk from Central Oregon Highway, positioned in high desert supporting sagebrush and juniper communities near Vale.
The spring emerges in basin and range topography where elevations support desert shrublands adapted to 12 inches of annual precipitation and 26 inches of snow. The surrounding landscape extends in gentle slopes and flats interrupted by low ridges. Chukar Park lies 16 kilometers distant along the North Fork Malheur River where riparian vegetation contrasts with upland desert.
History of Jonesboro Warm Spring
The Jonesboro name likely derives from early ranching or mining operations in Malheur County, though specific documentation remains limited. The spring appears in federal thermal surveys from the 1970s with basic temperature data but minimal historical detail, suggesting it served local uses without major commercial development through the 20th century.
Access from Vale via Highway 20 and connecting roads. Spring through fall provide moderate temperatures for visits. The 102-meter walk from Central Oregon Highway crosses desert terrain. Carry water and prepare for temperature extremes. Chukar Park Campground offers primitive camping 16 kilometers northeast with 14-day limits and no reservations required.
Is Jonesboro Warm Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Jonesboro Warm Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 11.9 in
Annual Snow: 25.9 in
January
Air 31°F · Water 112°F · +81° contrast
December
Air 32°F · Water 112°F · +81° contrast
February
Air 36°F · Water 112°F · +76° contrast
January offers 49°F more contrast than July
Let the sounds of the babbling North Fork of the Malheur River lull you to sleep at one of the riverside campsites of Chukar Park Campground. This primitive facility offers 19 campsites, seven of which are situated along the shady, lush riparian vegetation. Popular as a base camp with birders, hunters and fishers as well as those venturing through along nearby highway 20, Chukar Park has campsites with partial shade and in full sun. Note that the high-standard, graded county road leading to t...
Fee
$5 per night.
Stay limit
14 days.
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Chukar Park Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: (WESTFALL BUTTE 15) · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: BOISE
What is the water temperature at Jonesboro Warm Spring?
Jonesboro Warm Spring has a water temperature of 112°F (45°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Jonesboro Warm Spring located?
Jonesboro Warm Spring is located in Malheur County, Oregon at 2,847 feet elevation, near Vale. Coordinates: 43.7950°N, 117.9580°W.
How do I get to Jonesboro Warm Spring?
Jonesboro Warm Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Central Oregon Highway (336 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Jonesboro Warm Spring?
Yes, Chukar Park Campground is located nearby (9.9 miles away). $5 per night..
Is it safe to soak at Jonesboro Warm Spring?
At 112°F, Jonesboro Warm Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Jonesboro Warm Spring crowded?
Jonesboro Warm Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Jonesboro Warm Spring?
Essentials for Jonesboro Warm Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.