Kahneeta Hot Springs flows at 126°F on Warm Springs Reservation tribal land at 1,450 feet elevation, sitting just 6 meters from Agency Hot Springs Road. The spring registers 73 degrees above ambient in waters under Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs sovereign control with unknown public access status.
The spring emerges at low elevation where the Deschutes River has carved through basalt layers in central Oregon. This zone averages 54°F annually with 19 inches of precipitation and 25 inches of snow, supporting juniper woodlands transitioning to ponderosa pine at higher elevations. Trout Creek enters the Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic River 10 kilometers southwest.
History of Kahneeta Hot Springs
Kahneeta means 'little root digger' in the Sahaptin language, referencing traditional plant gathering practices. The spring has served tribal members for centuries before reservation establishment in 1855. A commercial resort operated at the site for decades under tribal ownership, though operational status has changed over time. Access policies remain under tribal jurisdiction.
Contact Warm Springs tribal government regarding current access policies before visiting. The spring sits on sovereign reservation land where tribal regulations supersede federal rules. Agency Hot Springs Road provides vehicle access though permission requirements apply. Trout Creek Campground offers public camping 10 kilometers southwest along the Deschutes River with 21 sites and year-round access.
Is Kahneeta Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Kahneeta Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 19.0 in
Annual Snow: 25.1 in
December
Air 36°F · Water 126°F · +90° contrast
January
Air 37°F · Water 126°F · +89° contrast
February
Air 39°F · Water 126°F · +87° contrast
December offers 39°F more contrast than August
Recent Temperature
62.6°F
(17.0°C)
Measured Jan 01, 1974
Featuring a boat launch, a seasonal ranger station and trailhead, Trout Creek campground offers 21 campsites and three group-use campsites along the Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic River. Some pull-through campsites as well as day-use parking are available in the recreation site. Access to the 7-mile Trout Creek Trail and Trout Creek Climbing Area originate at the south end of the campground.Know Before You Go:The campground is open year round but no potable water is available.Cell phone serv...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Trout Creek Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Warm Springs, OR
USGS Quad: EAGLE BUTTE 7.5 · PP 492: 7.0 · Circ 790: 180.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: BEND
What is the water temperature at Kahneeta Hot Springs?
Kahneeta Hot Springs has a water temperature of 126°F (52°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Kahneeta Hot Springs located?
Kahneeta Hot Springs is located in Jefferson County, Oregon at 1,450 feet elevation, near Warm Springs. Coordinates: 44.8620°N, 121.2010°W.
How do I get to Kahneeta Hot Springs?
Kahneeta Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Agency Hot Springs Road (21 ft from the road).
Is Kahneeta Hot Springs free to visit?
Kahneeta Hot Springs has Unknown access. It is managed by DESG.
Can I camp near Kahneeta Hot Springs?
Yes, Trout Creek Campground is located nearby (6.1 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Kahneeta Hot Springs?
At 126°F, Kahneeta Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Kahneeta Hot Springs crowded?
Kahneeta Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Kahneeta Hot Springs?
Essentials for Kahneeta Hot Springs: 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.