Belknap Hot Springs is a historic spring resort nestled in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains within the Willamette National Forest. Located on the banks of the scenic McKenzie River, the resort offers lodging and camping in a serene natural setting.

The hot springs, originally known as the "Pools of Salome" and "Siloam Springs," have a long history of use by Native American communities for spiritual ceremonies, healing, and rejuvenation. Archaeological evidence suggests this site was used for over 8,000 years.

European explorers first described the hot springs in 1854. In 1869, Rollin S. Belknap claimed the springs and surrounding land with the vision of creating a health spa. By 1874, the resort, known as "Salt Springs," was open to the public. The name was later changed to Belknap Springs in 1891 in honor of Belknap.

Belknap Hot Springs has been a popular retreat since its opening in 1874, with only a brief closure from 1968 to 1978, and continues to welcome visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in a scenic forested setting.

Belknap Hot Springs Features

The hot springs at Belknap reach near-boiling temperatures at the source, ranging between 185°F and 196°F. This mineral-rich water is pumped across the McKenzie River to a reservoir, which serves as both a heat exchanger for the resort’s geothermal energy needs and a cooling system for the pools. Once cooled to a comfortable temperature, the water is piped into two outdoor mineral pools.

Guests can enjoy the large lower pool by the river, open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., while the cozy upper pool, reserved primarily for overnight guests, stays open until 10 p.m. Pool temperatures are maintained at 92°F during summer and 102°F in winter. Some lodge rooms also feature private Jacuzzi tubs with direct access to the spring water.

The resort’s grounds are beautifully landscaped with expansive grassy areas, seasonal flowers, sculptures, and the enchanting Secret Garden—a peaceful retreat with classical-style columns and cascading waterfalls, perfect for a tranquil escape into nature.

Crossing the footbridge over the McKenzie River leads you to the source of Belknap Hot Springs and opens up a network of scenic hiking and biking trails. Among them is the renowned 27-mile McKenzie River Trail, which winds along the river and passes breathtaking sights, including Tamolich Blue Pool, the cascading Sahalie and Koosah Falls, ancient lava flows, and the crystal-clear waters of Clear Lake.

During summer, the McKenzie River offers excellent opportunities for fishing and white-water rafting. In winter, nearby areas provide abundant recreational activities like skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and snowmobiling, making Belknap a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Open: Year-round; The lower pool is opened from 9 am to 9 pm; The upper pool (overnight guests only) from 9 am to 10 pm
Managed by: Private Property

Development: Resort, two outdoor pools, & gardens
Amenities: Changing rooms, restrooms, picnic tables, and small store
Activities: Soaking, hiking, fishing, and rafting
Accommodations: Lodge, guest cabins, tent and RV sites
Clothing: Required

Distance from parking: Short
Road Access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes

Elevation: 1,700 ft (518 m)

Belknap Hot Springs is located:

58 miles east of Eugene
105 miles southeast of Salem
151 miles southeast of Portland.

Water T° (sources): 185°F (85°C) - 196°F (91°C)
Water T° (pools): 92°F (33°C) - 102°F (39°C)
Water acidity level: Neutral (pH=7.62)
Type of the springs: Sodium Chloride
Flow Rate: 75 gallon/min (285 l/min)
Chemical used: Water is treated with chlorine

Average dissolved solids: 2,650 Mg/L

Chloride - 1,300 Mg/L
Sodium - 690 Mg/L
Calcium - 210 Mg/L
Sulfur - 170 Mg/L
Silica - 96 Mg/L
Bromine - 33 Mg/L
Carbonate - 19 Mg/L
Potassium - 15 Mg/L
Boron - 6.4 Mg/L
Fluorine - 1.2 Mg/L
Lithium - 0.95 Mg/L
Magnesium - 0.2 Mg/L