Spring (Hot)

Baker County County, Oregon · Near Baker City
44.8130°N, 117.7650°W · 3,397 ft
Warm 3,397 ft Short Walk Camping nearby (23.0 mi)

This unnamed hot spring in Baker County emerges at 3,397 feet elevation along Sunnyslope Road near Baker City. The spring flows at an unrecorded temperature designated only as hot in federal surveys, requiring a 277-meter walk from the road through Blue Mountains foothill terrain.

The spring emerges in mixed forest at 3,397 feet, where ponderosa pine and Douglas fir transition to juniper at lower elevations. Annual precipitation totals 16.6 inches with 44 inches of snow. Rolling hills characteristic of the Blue Mountains' eastern flanks surround the site. Historical mining activity shaped the Baker City region, with prospect holes and old roads evident. Federal forest and private land intermix.

History of Spring (Hot)

This spring lacks a formal name, appearing in 1980 NOAA records only as Spring (Hot). The absence of naming suggests it never reached commercial development or significant local use. No documented Indigenous name or homestead-era history has been located. Current status is undeveloped backcountry seep without formal designation.

The 277-meter walk from Sunnyslope Road is manageable June through October when mountain roads are passable. Winter snowpack of 44 inches closes routes November through May. The lack of recorded temperature data and formal name suggests limited flow or appeal. Two Color Guard Station, a 1959 Forest Service cabin, offers reservable lodging 37 kilometers away.

Is Spring (Hot) worth visiting?

Best for

  • Overnight camping trips
Spring (Hot) is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
27°
Jan
31°
Feb
38°
Mar
45°
Apr
54°
May
62°
Jun
72°
Jul
72°
Aug
62°
Sep
48°
Oct
35°
Nov
27°
Dec
Annual Precip: 16.6 in Annual Snow: 44.0 in
Nearby Camping
Two Color Guard Station 23.0 mi away

Overview The Civilian Conservation Corps originally constructed the Two Color Guard Station in the 1930s for use as crew quarters and bunkhouse. The original building was removed in 1976. The current guard station was built in 1959. Two Color Guard Station is open June through October. Guests can drive to it except after significant snowfall, when it's only accessible by snowmobile. Guests staying in the later part of the season are encouraged to bring extra supplies to ensure a comfortable a...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear Nearby camping at Two Color Guard Station
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: BAKER 7.5 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: BAKER
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Spring (Hot)?
Spring (Hot) is classified as warm. An exact temperature measurement has not been recorded.
Where is Spring (Hot) located?
Spring (Hot) is located in Baker County, Oregon at 3,397 feet elevation, near Baker City. Coordinates: 44.8130°N, 117.7650°W.
How do I get to Spring (Hot)?
Spring (Hot) has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Sunnyslope Road (0.2 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Spring (Hot)?
Yes, Two Color Guard Station is located nearby (23.0 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Spring (Hot)?
Spring (Hot) is generally safe for soaking at its recorded 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 Spring (Hot) crowded?
Spring (Hot) sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Spring (Hot)?
Essentials for Spring (Hot): swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
Warm
Warm Hot Boiling
Avg Air Temp 48°F
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Nearest Road Sunnyslope Road
Distance to Road 0.2 mi