Snively Hot Spring
Snively Hot Spring emerges at 170°F on BLM land in Malheur County, making it one of the hottest accessible thermal features in eastern Oregon. The spring sits just 30 meters from Owyhee Lake Road at 2,257 feet elevation, offering nearly roadside access to a genuinely high-temperature geothermal source 114 degrees above ambient air.
The spring emerges in low desert terrain along Owyhee Lake Road, where sparse sagebrush and greasewood dominate at 2,257 feet elevation. Annual precipitation totals just 10.2 inches with minimal snow. The Owyhee Reservoir lies nearby, impounding the Owyhee River in a dramatic canyon. Exposed basalt and desert pavement characterize the landscape. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F. Federal BLM rangeland surrounds the site.
The Snively name likely honors an early rancher or settler family in Malheur County's Owyhee region. The spring appears in federal surveys as undeveloped thermal water on public land. No commercial resort or documented Indigenous use has been recorded. Current BLM management designates it as publicly accessible but subject to extractive use under Protection Status 3.
The 30-meter roadside location allows nearly drive-up access. Extreme caution is required as 170°F water causes severe burns. Best visiting is April through early June or September through October when desert heat moderates. Summer air temperatures exceed 95°F regularly. No developed camping exists nearby. Bring sun protection and sufficient water for the desert environment.
Is Snively Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking