Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs History

Kah-Nee-Ta’s story is tied to the Warm Springs people and their ancestral hot springs. In the early 20th century, the spa was operated by a non-Tribal doctor until the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs purchased the land in 1961. They had to rebuild it after the devastating 1964–65 flood, adding an Olympic-size pool, cottages, restaurants, and teepees.

The iconic lodge (built in 1971) featured bold modernist architecture and was later expanded through the 1990s with a casino and golf course. The resort closed in 2018 but reopened in 2024 with multiple improvements.

Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Experience

At Kah-Nee-Ta, clear, mineral-rich geothermal water flows directly from a 120–130°F source into a variety of pools. The main swimming pools are lightly chlorinated to meet health standards, while private soaking tubs are filled with pure, untreated mineral water that’s drained and cleaned after every guest.

You can also fill up your water bottle with drinkable, clean mineral water.

Here is the list of pools you can enjoy:

• Warm leisure pools hold steady around 98–100°F for relaxed floating.
• Hot wellness pools are maintained near 102–105°F for deeper muscle soothing.
• A very hot therapy pool can reach up to 110°F.
• The kids’ pool area with mineral water fountains is typically kept around 85–90°F.
• Lazy River Pool is up to 85°F. Swim, walk, or run against the current.
• Cold plunge tubs sit between 40–50°F, and the nearby river averages about 55°F in midseason.
• Private wellness tubs can be adjusted up to 110°F for a custom soak.

The Wanapine Wellness Spa has 30-minute salt baths, steam, sauna, and a full spa service (including facials, manicures, pedicures, and waxing).

Families can opt for rooms a short walk from the leisure pool and kids’ water play zones.

In addition to soaking, Kah-Nee-Ta is full of other adventures. Here are just a few of the many things you can enjoy.

Stargazing: Dark, dry skies provide excellent visibility on clear nights. You can often see the Milky Way in midsummer. Evening temperatures can dip into the 40–50°F, so bring layers.

Land and play: Explore Redrock Canyon walking paths, 5K and 10K riverside running routes, or enjoy pickleball, basketball, mini golf, cornhole, boccia, and horseshoes. The fitness room has ellipticals, treadmills, stationary bikes, and free weights.

Food and community: Chinook Restaurant & Appaloosa Bar serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with wellness-focused menu items, kids’ options, and local flavors. A morning coffee bar is open from 8–11 AM.

There’s no dispersed camping at the hot springs complex itself. The resort offers on-site lodging and bookable stays.

You can pick from the 30-room hotel, riverside and meadow teepees, and RV sites.