Paulina Springs
Paulina Springs emerges at 70°F within Newberry National Volcanic Monument in Deschutes County, flowing at 6,338 feet elevation in the heart of Oregon's High Cascade volcanic landscape. Running 30 degrees above the frigid ambient air temperature of just 39.8°F, the spring requires a substantial hike of approximately 1,751 meters—over a mile—placing it firmly in backcountry territory accessible only to dedicated hikers.
The spring emerges within Newberry Caldera at 6,338 feet elevation, surrounded by volcanic landforms including cinder cones, lava flows, and caldera lakes in the Deschutes National Forest. The harsh climate brings 25.6 inches of precipitation annually with a massive 102.7 inches of snow, creating deep winter snowpack that persists into summer. Lodgepole and ponderosa pine forests cover the caldera floor, with Paulina Lake nearby offering dramatic views of obsidian flows. The volcanic system remains geologically active.
The springs take their name from Paulina Lake, itself named for Paiute leader Paulina who resisted Euro-American encroachment in central Oregon during the 1860s Snake War. Newberry Volcano, one of North America's largest shield volcanoes, last erupted approximately 1,300 years ago, creating the Big Obsidian Flow. The caldera's thermal features reflect ongoing geothermal activity. Designation as a National Monument in 1990 enhanced protection of the volcanic landscape and its thermal features.
Visit July through September when snowmelt allows access; the 102.7 inches of annual snowfall creates impassable conditions much of the year. The 1,751-meter hike requires proper footwear, navigation tools, and preparation for rapid weather changes at this elevation. Little Crater Campground on Paulina Lake, just 2.3 kilometers away, offers reservable camping with lake access and serves as an ideal base. Morning temperatures can drop to freezing even in summer. Carry bear-safe food storage.
Is Paulina Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Situated on the edge of the beautiful Paulina Lake, Little Crater Campground is conveniently located within Newberry National Monument. Visitors to this area are taken aback by the incredible views this area has to offer, highlighting volcanic landscapes intermixed with diverse forests, typical of central Oregon. Popular for both its geological significance and multitude of recreational activities, Little Crater Campground is ideal for individual and family camping excursions. If y...