Austin Hot Springs is located 60 miles away from Portland, Oregon, and is accessible via Highway 224. With flowing waters that are geothermally heated due to volcanic activity, these mineral springs situated alongside the Clackamas River in the Mt. Hood National Forest are sure to relax you.
Hot Springs
Austin Hot Springs in the Mt. Hood National Forest features a number of pools, separated by rocks and stones, right alongside the Clackamas River.
Note: The Austin Hot Springs is officially closed due to the water being scalding in some of the pools. Nonetheless, the springs are often visited by locals and tourists, particularly on the weekends and during the holidays.
Some of the pools are marked and enclosed with wires due to having temperatures exceeding 200°F. Generally, these pools lie away from the river, whereas the colder pools are closer to the river. Check the water in the pools and proceed with extreme caution because boiling hot water often flows out suddenly from the bottom.
These springs are clothing optional and there are no bathroom facilities located nearby, so be prepared.
Getting There
The springs can be accessed from Estacada, OR by traveling around 30 miles in the southeast direction on Highway 224, which eventually emerges into the Clackamas River Road.
Stay on the road until you reach the River Ford Campground. The pools are located just a short distance from here and are nestled along the Clackamas River.
Details
Address: Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon 97023
Season: Year-Round | Summer is the best season | Roads can be closed during winter
Camping: Nearby at River Ford Campground
Admission: Free
Ritter Hot Springs – Long Creek, Oregon