At 165°F, the source water at Olene Gap Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
Olene Gap Hot Springs emerges at 165°F in Klamath County's volcanic landscape, flowing at 4,116 feet elevation and running 116 degrees above ambient air temperature. Located near Altamont, this roadside thermal feature sits just 24 meters from South Poe Valley Road, offering easy access to one of southern Oregon's hotter springs with temperatures approaching scalding levels.
The springs emerge in the transitional zone between the southern Cascade Range and the Klamath Basin at 4,116 feet elevation, where volcanic geology dominates the landscape. The area receives 19.2 inches of annual precipitation with 45 inches falling as snow, supporting open ponderosa pine forest mixed with sagebrush meadows. The Klamath River system drains this region, with the recently restored river visible from nearby vantage points. Mount McLoughlin rises to the north, a prominent volcanic cone.
History of Olene Gap Hot Springs
The springs take their name from nearby Olene, a small community established in the early 20th century, and the geographic gap or pass in the surrounding terrain where the thermal features emerge. The Klamath Basin supported substantial Indigenous populations for millennia, with thermal features likely used for various purposes. Euro-American settlement began in the 1860s, with ranchers and homesteaders utilizing thermal springs as water sources in this semi-arid region.
Visit spring through fall when South Poe Valley Road remains passable; winter snow can close access. The extreme 165°F temperature makes this spring dangerous—maintain safe distances and supervise children closely. Topsy Campground on the Klamath River, 36 kilometers distant, offers non-reservable camping in ponderosa pine forest with fishing and river access. The spring sits at roadside, making it vulnerable to impacts—practice leave-no-trace ethics. Bring adequate water and sun protection.
Is Olene Gap Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Olene Gap Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
32°Jan
34°Feb
39°Mar
45°Apr
53°May
62°Jun
72°Jul
71°Aug
63°Sep
50°Oct
39°Nov
32°Dec
Annual Precip: 19.2 inAnnual Snow: 45.1 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 32°F · Water 165°F · +133° contrast
DecemberAir 32°F · Water 165°F · +133° contrast
FebruaryAir 34°F · Water 165°F · +131° contrast
January offers 40°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Topsy Campground 22.1 mi away
Located on the rugged shoreline of the newly restored Klamath River, the Topsy Campground provides a quiet location for relaxing camping, picnicking, fishing, and river boating. The area is set in an open ponderosa pine forest with nearby views of Mount McLoughlin, an icon of the southern Oregon Cascade Mountains.Know Before You Go:Open Season Topsy Campground is open seasonally from May through October.13 Campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads; first come, first serve.Univer...
Fee$7 per night, $4 per extra vehicle, $2 day use area.
What is the water temperature at Olene Gap Hot Springs?
Olene Gap Hot Springs has a water temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Olene Gap Hot Springs located?
Olene Gap Hot Springs is located in Klamath County, Oregon at 4,116 feet elevation, near Altamont. Coordinates: 42.1740°N, 121.6150°W.
How do I get to Olene Gap Hot Springs?
Olene Gap Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being South Poe Valley Road (78 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Olene Gap Hot Springs?
Yes, Topsy Campground is located nearby (22.1 miles away). $7 per night, $4 per extra vehicle, $2 day use area..
Is it safe to soak at Olene Gap Hot Springs?
The water at Olene Gap Hot Springs reaches 165°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Olene Gap Hot Springs crowded?
Olene Gap 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 Olene Gap Hot Springs?
Essentials for Olene Gap 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.