Outdoors NearbyDeer Creek Hot Springs
A small rock pool at the edge of the McKenzie River near Highway 126, fed by a hot seep in the bank. It is cooler than most Cascade springs and only usable when the river is low. Deer Creek Hot Springs costs nothing to visit.
| Access | Free, public land Free single pool on the bank of the McKenzie River. It is underwater and unusable when the river runs high. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | McKenzie Bridge, OR Managed by USFS Willamette NF (McKenzie River RD) Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | 142 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980) |
| Season | Best in late summer when the river is low; the pool disappears in high water. |
| Clothing | clothing optional |
Best time to soak: Deer Creek Hot Springs
Deer Creek Hot Springs is about 53 miles east of Eugene, OR, measured in a straight line.
From October to April average highs near McKenzie Bridge stay at 36 to 60 °F, with nights down to 29 °F. With lows at 29 to 30 °F from December to February, bring warm layers for getting out of the water. December is the wettest month with about 16 days of rain or snow, and creekside springs can flood or cool down after heavy runoff.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37 °F | 29 °F | 14 |
| Feb | 42 °F | 29 °F | 13 |
| Mar | 48 °F | 31 °F | 14 |
| Apr | 55 °F | 35 °F | 14 |
| May | 65 °F | 41 °F | 10 |
| Jun | 72 °F | 46 °F | 6 |
| Jul | 83 °F | 50 °F | 2 |
| Aug | 82 °F | 49 °F | 2 |
| Sep | 75 °F | 45 °F | 4 |
| Oct | 60 °F | 38 °F | 10 |
| Nov | 44 °F | 33 °F | 15 |
| Dec | 36 °F | 30 °F | 16 |
More to do nearby
- Tamolitch Falls (waterfall, 5 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
-
Illustration SIMARI quick-dry water shoes for women and men Grip on slick rock and gravel pool bottoms, and they dry fast on the walk out. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
Other hot springs near McKenzie Bridge
- Belknap Hot Springs Day pass
- Terwilliger Hot Springs Day pass
- Breitenbush Hot Springs Day pass
- McCredie Hot Springs Free
- Bagby Hot Springs Day pass
- Umpqua Hot Springs Free
Waterfalls nearby
- Tamolitch Falls (5 mi)
- Horse Creek (7 mi)
- Koosah Falls (8 mi)
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
Is Deer Creek Hot Springs free?
Yes. Deer Creek Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
How hot is Deer Creek Hot Springs?
142 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980). Pool temperatures are usually lower than at the source and change with the season.
Is Deer Creek Hot Springs clothing optional?
Yes, clothing optional.
When is Deer Creek Hot Springs open?
Best in late summer when the river is low; the pool disappears in high water.
How far is Deer Creek Hot Springs from Eugene?
About 53 miles from Eugene in a straight line; the drive is longer.