Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs History

Kah-Nee-Ta’s story is deeply tied to the Warm Springs people and their ancestral geothermal waters. After an early 20th-century spa era operated by a non-Tribal doctor, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs purchased the land in 1961. They rebuilt following the devastating 1964–65 flood—adding an Olympic-size pool, cottages, restaurants, and teepees.

The iconic lodge, completed in 1971, featured bold modernist architecture and later expanded through the 1990s with a casino and golf course. The resort closed in 2018 but reopened in 2024, backed by Tribal investment and a renewed focus on hot springs, wellness, teepees, RV sites, and a boutique hotel.

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.

In the private soaking rooms, temperatures can be adjusted by adding cold water for a fully customized soak.

Several pools are available to suit every preference:

• 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.

If you want more comfort, on-site private soaking rooms and the Wanapine Wellness Spa provide 30-minute salt baths, steam, sauna, and service menus including facials, manicures, pedicures, and waxing. Families can opt for rooms a short walk from the leisure pool and kids’ water play zones.

There is plenty to do at Kah-Nee-Ta, from structured wellness to casual recreation. This part of Central Oregon is known for sunny days, low humidity, and big-sky sunsets, making water time and evening fireside gatherings memorable.

Stargazing: Dark, dry skies offer excellent visibility on clear nights, with the Milky Way often visible in midsummer. Evening temperatures can dip into the 40–50°F range in the shoulder seasons, so bring layers.

Classes and wellness spaces: Seasonal 45-minute water aerobics and yoga classes are held at 9 AM in a pool. A meditation teepee is available for quiet reflection, and the spa offers private 30-minute sessions in the steam room or sauna. Guests can also book 30-minute Dead Sea salt baths for singles or couples, with optional essential oils.

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 features ellipticals, treadmills, stationary bikes, and free weights for cross-training before a recovery soak.

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 operates from 8–11 AM, and evening bingo during happy hour adds a casual social touch.

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.