If your a hot springs lover, Oregon is the place for you; especially the iconic Bagby Hot Springs. Over the years, the hot springs have changed quite a bit since I first visited, so it is important that you prepare properly before making the trek out to the hot springs.
In 2019 the hot springs closed due to the pandemic, then again because of two back to back wildfires. Since then the hot springs are now managed by a couple that met at the hot springs, hoping to return it to what it once was. Let’s be sure to be mindful of leaving no trace so collectively we can ensure it can improve for all soakers to enjoy. Let’s get into planning your trip!
Where Is Bagby Hot Springs Located?
No matter how you get there, Bagby Hot Springs is a TREK. From Portland your looking at 2 hours one way. We stayed in Welches and it was 1.5 hours one way to get there. But trust me, it’s worth it!
It is located outside of Estacada, Oregon close to the fire of 2020 and 2021 that swept through the area. Luckily Bagby did not see damage, but the roads did keeping it closed for 4 years before reopening in May of 2024.
When Is The Best Time to Visit Bagby?
Hot springs are popular, no doubt about that. I’ve visited many over the years in Oregon and have always found that sunrise or sunset is typically the best time to visit. Camping nearby at Bagby Hot Springs is going to grant you closer access to the hot springs-so do that if you can!
Keep in mind that large groups have a 30 minute soaking limit, so they should be mindful of signs and be willing to share the tubs. Weekdays are going to be your best time to visit with less people present.
Spring at Bagby Hot Springs is going to be the best time of year to visit, with fall being a close second. The wildflowers are blooming, there is no risk of snow or downed trees.
Summer at Bagby Hot Springs is likely to be busier as it is peak tourist season in Oregon. Bagby is no hidden gem and is a popular place, especially after being closed for 4 years.
Fall at Bagby would be a great time to visit with cooler temperatures! I imagine the leafs would be beautiful too.
Winter at Bagby Hot Springs can not be accessible due to snow. Be mindful and follow trip reports from the hot springs page on Facebook. People do get stuck and only a snowcat can rescue you.
Where Can I Stay?
If your visiting or want to be closer to the hot springs to get prime sunrise time, camping is going to be your best option.
Bagby Campground has first come first serve 16-sites that are for tent camping at $25/ night for a single site. Keep in mind that you must pay cash for this.
Although further away, staying up towards Mount Hood makes it a 1.5 hour drive to the trailhead and back to a cabin in Welches or Rhododendron.
What Is The Hike Like?
Hiking into the hot springs can be done by most ages as it is an easy hike of 1.5 miles in with 262 feet of elevation gain.
The hike takes you through lush, beautiful old growth forest and stunning foot bridges over the river. The trail is exceptionally stunning! Dogs are allowed on the trail on a leash.
Things To Know Before You Go
To make your trip easier, travel with the right amount of cash per person. It is $5 cash a person to visit the springs. After Memorial Day, the nearby Ripplebook Store about 25 minutes from Bagby has a credit card machine that you can pay with.
If you see something, say something. Unfortunately these hot springs have been vandalized over the years. If you see something be sure to report it to the host and Bagby Preservation.
At this time, two of three bathhouses are open. Bathhouse #1 is the most private, and cold water hoses have been added to make the experience more enjoyable. Bathhouse # 2 with 4 wooden barrel hot tubs are open as well. The infamous log private bathhouse is not open, although the owners hope to rebuild it someday!
While there is a 30 minute soaking limit, keep in mind that hot springs are a shared experience. We waited to have the private bathhouse to ourselves on a Monday morning. Nudity is also allowed here, so keep that in mind if you aren’t comfortable with that.
Keep in mind that these hot springs have gone through a lot over the years, and it is best that we work together to restore them. When I visited 8 years ago there was a large amount of trash surrounding the hot springs. Practice Leave No Trace principles and report anything you see that harms others or the place. Enjoy your experience!