• Whitehorse Ranch Hot Springs is a hidden oasis in the high desert
Whitehorse Ranch Hot Springs, also known as Willow Creek Hot Springs, is a remote oasis tucked away in southeastern Oregon, just 20 miles north of the Oregon-Nevada border.
The hot springs feature two adjoining, perfectly round pools separated by a concrete dam. The fairly clear mineral water bubbles up at 114°F through the sandy bottom of the 14-foot-diameter and 2.5-foot-deep smaller pool. This pool is hotter, with water temperatures between 100 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on air temperature and wind. The water from the smaller pool flows into the larger pool, where it cools to about 90°F.
Although hot springs in the middle of the high desert are rare, Whitehorse Ranch Hot Springs is a well-preserved oasis. It is generally clean, rarely crowded, and surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the southeastern Oregon wilderness. There is a BLM campsite nearby where visitors can settle and enjoy the widespread nature and expansive landscape.
A BLM campsite nearby offers visitors a perfect spot. Situated right along the creek's bank, the campsite has picnic tables, fire rings, parking spaces, and an outhouse pit toilet. Camping at Whitehorse Ranch Hot Springs will fill your stay with the playful sounds of nature and fabulous sunset and sunrise soaks.
Interestingly, Whitehorse Ranch Hot Springs survived a devastating 560,000-acre wildfire in 2012. While the surrounding region suffered massive damage, the hot springs remained virtually untouched. It was the state's largest fire since the 1860s, destroying many habitats and killing a large number of cattle, horses, coyotes, and other wildlife.
Today, the area surrounding the hot springs is a natural haven with beautiful landscapes and wildlife. Visitors can encounter Pronghorn antelope, Bighorn sheep, and Greater sage-grouse.
The hot springs are easily accessible from the gravel Whitehorse Ranch Road (read driving directions below). The final 2.5 miles of the road can become soft and muddy on rainy days. For the best experience, plan your visit during dry weather to avoid getting stuck and ensure a smooth journey.
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Whitehorse Ranch Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 34 miles east of Fields • Southeastern Oregon • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Undeveloped
Amenities: None except a vault toilet
Clothing: Optional
Accommodations: BLM campground on a first come, first served basis; Camping is not allowed within 100 feet of the hot springs.
Distance from the parking: Short
Road Access: Any vehicle when the roads are dry.
Managed by: BLM
Day-use fees: Free
Elevation: 4,495 ft (1,370 m)
Water T° (source): 114.8°F (46°C)
Water T° (main pool): 100-105°F (38-41°C)
Water T° (large pool): 85-95°F (29-35°C)
Flow: 30 gallon/min (114 l/min)
Odor: None
Chemical used: None
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Directions to Whitehorse Ranch Hot Springs
From Burns,
- Take OR-78 and head southeast for 91 miles to OR-78 and US-95 Junction
- Bear right and drive 21 miles to Whitehorse Ranch Lane, between milepost 87 and 88
- Turn right (west) onto Whitehorse Ranch Lane and follow 21 miles to Whitehorse Ranch
- Drive 2.8 miles, past the ranch and turn left (south) onto the dirt road
- Continue 2.5 miles to the destination.
From Fields,
- Take OR-205 south and drive 8 miles south to Whitehorse Ranch Lane
- Bear left (east) onto Whitehorse Ranch Lane and follow 23 miles to the dirt road on the right
- Turn right (south) and continue 2.5 miles to the destination.