About Deer Butte Hot Springs
Deer Butte Hot Springs offers a quietly rugged experience in Oregon’s remote high desert. This small, primitive hot spring provides a faint warmth trickling through mineral-rich seeps along Owyhee Lake Road. Though its thermal flow is modest, the spot captures a raw, natural ambiance that contrasts with more developed hot springs in Oregon.
Getting There
You can reach Deer Butte Hot Springs with a short drive northeast of Snively Hot Springs along Owyhee Lake Road. Parking is very limited and the road can suffer from occasional mudslides and construction delays, so plan accordingly. No hiking is needed, making it one of the more accessible primitive hot springs in the area.
What to Expect
The thermal water here is barely warm, more suited for a soothing foot bath than full-body soaking. The remnants of old concrete pools hint at a busier past, but now the experience is quiet and contemplative. You’ll likely share the peace with few other visitors, and there are no facilities or amenities—just open sky and natural mineral water.
Tips for Visitors
Visit year-round, though spring weather can fluctuate and affect road conditions. Bring sturdy shoes for walking on uneven ground and pack your own water and supplies since there are no services nearby. This free Oregon swimming hole encourages respect for nature—leave no trace and be discreet, as clothing is optional here.