Lehman Springs
Lehman Springs emerges at 142°F near Pilot Rock in Umatilla County, requiring a 151-meter walk from Lehman Springs Road. Documented records confirm this spring has operated as a resort since 1871, maintaining one of the most significant thermal differentials in the Blue Mountains—98 degrees above ambient air temperature. The short-walk access classification and proximity to road infrastructure make it accessible year-round despite heavy winter snowfall.
The spring occupies a mid-elevation site in the Blue Mountains at a latitude where annual temperatures average 44°F. Surrounding terrain features dense conifer forests of Douglas fir, grand fir, and lodgepole pine, sustained by 27 inches of annual precipitation and approximately 76 inches of snow. The setting combines mountain topography with volcanic geology typical of Oregon's eastern ranges. Lehman Springs Road provides the primary access corridor through terrain that transitions from forested slopes to more exposed ridgelines at higher elevations.
Native Americans utilized these thermal waters before European settlement. In 1871, the property was developed into Lehman Hot Springs resort, establishing one of Oregon's earlier commercial hot springs operations. The resort has continued operations across multiple generations, though management and facilities have evolved over 150 years. The name derives from early landowners who recognized the commercial potential of the thermal resource.
Winter visits require preparation for heavy snow conditions—the site receives over 75 inches annually. Summer and fall offer the most reliable road access. Anthony Lake Campground lies 39 kilometers distant, providing reservable sites for multi-day exploration. The 142°F source temperature requires caution; most soaking occurs in pools where water has cooled. Check current resort status and access policies before visiting.
Is Lehman Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
Overview At an elevation of 7,100 feet, this campground keeps cool in the summertime heat. The sites sit among boulders and mixed conifers on a bluff over Anthony Lake. For questions for Anthony Lake, Grande Ronde Lake, Mud Lake, Peavey Cabin, and Anthony Lake Guard Station call (541) 894-2332 or email campgrounds@anthonylakes.com None of the sites offer lake views, but campers can enjoy gazing on Gunsight Mountain and the surrounding peaks of the Elkhorn range. Anthony Lakes Campgrounds Webs...