Unnamed Thermal Spring
Within Malheur National Wildlife Refuge boundaries at 4,229 feet, this 83°F spring flows 1,850 meters from Center Patrol Road under US Fish and Wildlife Service management with restricted access to protect sensitive habitat. The 32.1°F temperature differential above ambient creates warm water in an area managed primarily for migratory waterfowl and other wildlife.
The spring emerges in the vast wetland complex of Malheur NWR, where spring-fed marshes and seasonal flooding create critical habitat for hundreds of bird species. At this elevation, the refuge sits in the Harney Basin beneath the dramatic eastern escarpment of Steens Mountain. Annual precipitation of 14.1 inches and 35.9 inches of snow, combined with snowmelt from Steens, maintain the extensive marsh systems. Riparian vegetation along the Donner and Blitzen River contrasts with upland sagebrush and juniper communities.
The spring lies within a refuge established in 1908 to protect breeding habitat for waterbirds threatened by plume hunting. While Indigenous groups—primarily Northern Paiute—used the Harney Basin's abundant resources for thousands of years, specific associations with this spring remain undocumented. Euro-American ranching from the 1870s preceded federal protection, with Peter French's cattle empire once controlling much of the current refuge lands.
Access requires refuge permission; contact Malheur NWR headquarters before visiting. The substantial hike and restricted access make this primarily a wildlife area rather than recreation destination. Visit September through May when refuge roads are passable; spring flooding closes many routes. Page Springs Campground, 3.5 km away, provides excellent base camping. Bring binoculars as the surrounding wetlands host extraordinary bird diversity. Respect all closure areas protecting nesting habitat.
Is this spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Page Springs Campground is located at the base of Steens Mountain, just three miles from the town of Frenchglen, Oregon. Thrity-six roomy campsites situated under cottonwood and juniper trees and near the Donner and Blitzen River welcome visitors year-round. The campground serves as the trailhead for two short hikes: the Blitzen River Trail meanders four miles up the river, while the Wilderness Nature Trail climbs gradually to the top of the bluff overlooking the valley floor and l...