• Barnes Warm Springs is nestled at the base of the Steens Mountains
• The springs are warm and good for summer bathing
Situated at the base of the Steens Mountains, near the small town of Frenchglen, Barnes Warm Springs is also known as Frenchglen Warm Springs. A short hike from the zigzap shaped gate at the southern end of Frenchglen is easy and family- and animal-friendly but dogs and other pets must be on a leash. There is a small parking area near the gate.
The 0.9-mile partially graveled trail runs along the Warm Springs Canal and hills. It will take about 20 minutes to reach the secluded Barnes Warm Springs. The springs pool can be invisible from the trail. But when you see juniper trees, big rocks, and abandoned ranch constructions in the background, you are in the right place. A few yards long pathway between rocks will bring you to the 7-foot in diameter and 20-inch deep pool. It is lined with rocks and has a sand and gravel bottom.
The water temperature does not exceed 90-degree Fahrenheit. So, the best time for dipping in the warm springs is, definitely, the summer months between June and September.
Barnes Warm Springs | Facts
Location: 61 miles south of Burns • Eastern Oregon • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Undeveloped
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: None
Accommodations: Frenchglen Hotel - 0.3 miles south; Page Springs Campground - 3.3 miles southwest
Hiking distance: 0.9 miles
Road Access: Any vehicle
Day-use: Free
Elevation: 4,170 ft (1,271 m)
Water T°: 88°F (31°C)
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Directions to Barnes Warm Springs
From Burns,
- Travel 1.2 miles on OR 78 (OR-78) to highway OR 205
- Turn right onto OR 205 and drive 58.2 miles to the town of Frenchglen
- As you pass the Historic Frenchglen Hotel on the right-hand side of the road, take the Steens Mountain Loop
- Continue 0.3 miles onto the Steens Mountain Loop
- Then bear right and park your car near the gate
- Hike 0.9 miles from the gate to the warm springs on the left.