• Deer Creek Hot Springs is a great soaking spot on the bank of the McKenzie River
• Features a little pool in the fern grotto
Deer Creek, also known as Bigelow Hot Springs offers a unique soaking experience in the heart of Willamette National Forest along the serene McKenzie River. Nestled in a natural fern grotto, this small, rock-walled pool features mineral-rich water bubbling up from the bottom, creating a warm soak — though it can cool if it mixes with the river’s cold current.
The pool’s sandy, gravelly floor and its limited space make it best suited for just a few visitors at a time, creating an intimate atmosphere. This spot is free to visit, with clothing optional, providing a natural, unstructured soaking experience.
Due to Deer Creek Hot Springs is adjacent to the rushing McKenzie River that originates in the high Cascades, the soaking pool can be too chilly in the winters and early springs. The temperature is nearly perfect during the summer and fall seasons.
Located near Belknap Hot Springs Lodge & Gardens, Deer Creek Hot Springs offers a peaceful, scenic experience for those seeking a quiet retreat in nature.
Deer Creek Hor Springs: Camping, Lodging & Vacation Rentals
Olallie Campground, 1.5 miles northeast of the hot springs, has 16 tent sites with picnic tables, vault toilets and drinking water. The campground operates from April through October.
Belknap Hot Springs Resort, 4.4 miles southeast, offers a stay and hot spring soaking in a beautiful setting of the Willamette National Forest.
Accommodation is available in Eugene.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Eugene
Deer Creek Hot Springs | Facts
Open: Year-round from sunrise to sunset
Managed by: US Forest Service
Development: Undeveloped
Amenities: No services are available
Activities: Soaking and hiking
Clothing: Optional
Distance from parking: 200 yards
Road Access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 1,700 ft (518 m)
Deer (Bigelow) Hot Springs is located:
- 63 miles east of Eugene
- 67 miles west of Bend
- 101 miles southeast of Salem
- 147 miles southeast of Portland.
Water T°: 85°F (29°C) - 100°F (38°C)
Water acidity level: Neutral (pH=7.8)
Type of the springs: Sodium Chloride
Flow rate: 2.6 gallon/min (10 l/min)
Chemical used: None
Average dissolved solids: 2,650 Mg/L
Chloride - 1,148 Mg/L
Sodium - 540 Mg/L
Carbonate - 144 Mg/L
Sulfur - 102 Mg/L
Calcium - 188 Mg/L
Silica - 68.9 Mg/L
Potassium - 16.6 Mg/L
Boron - 6.5 Mg/L
Fluorine - 1.4 Mg/L
Lithium - 1.1 Mg/L
Video
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Deer Creek (Bigelow) Hot Springs
From I-5,
- Take exit 194A in Eugene
- Drive on Highway 126 East for about 63 miles to Forest Road 2654, or Deer Creek Road
- Turn left, cross the bridge, and park on the right.
1. Lauren S. Forcella. "Geochemistry of Thermal and Mineral Waters in the Cascade Mountains of Western North America". 1981
2. "Geothermal Information Layer for Oregon". www.oregongeology.org