Rock Creek Hot Springs
Rock Creek Hot Springs emerges in the Columbia River Gorge in Skamania County, Washington, with water documented as 'hot' without specific temperature measurement. The spring sits at just 330 feet elevation only 14 meters from access road CG-2031A1 near Stevenson, making it essentially roadside accessible in the wet western gorge environment.
This low-elevation spring occupies the lush western Columbia River Gorge where maritime air from the Pacific creates a wet climate with 78.9 inches of annual precipitation and 93.4 inches of snow. The 330-foot elevation places it in the Douglas fir and western hemlock zone, with dense forest vegetation characteristic of the gorge's western reaches. Rock Creek likely flows nearby, feeding into the Columbia River system through one of the gorge's many tributaries. Average annual temperatures of 51.1 degrees keep the area green year-round, with the I-84 corridor and railroad visible or audible from many locations.
The spring takes its name from Rock Creek, a common geographic designation in the Pacific Northwest. The area's development history follows the broader Columbia Gorge pattern of Indigenous use for thousands of years, followed by Euro-American settlement along the Oregon Trail route and later railroad and highway construction. The spring's roadside location suggests it may have been known to travelers but lacks the documentation of more developed thermal features.
Access appears straightforward given the 14-meter distance from the road, though the 'hot' designation without specific temperature warrants caution. The 93.4 inches of annual snow falls primarily at higher elevations, making the 330-foot spring elevation accessible year-round. Eagle Creek Campground 9 kilometers away provides reservable camping with access to the popular Eagle Creek Trail. Combine with visits to other gorge attractions along the Washington side of the river.
Is Rock Creek Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Eagle Creek campground is located above Interstate 84 among tall trees. It was the first developed campground in the Forest Service system. Campsites are well-spaced creating a feeling of privacy. It is, however, located on the bluff above Interstate 84 and railroad tracks so it can be noisy.Recreation This campground is part of the Eagle Creek Recreation Area featuring the classic and popular Eagle Creek trail and access to several other hiking and road biking trails. There are ou...