Brisbois Ranch Springs

Grant County, Oregon · Near Canyon City
44.0730°N, 119.4270°W · 4,556 ft
72°F 4,556 ft Short Walk Camping nearby (9.4 mi)

Brisbois Ranch Springs produces 72-degree water that flows 24.2 degrees above ambient temperature in Grant County's mountainous terrain. The spring requires a 430-foot walk from the nearest road, emerging at 4,556 feet elevation in an area where average annual air temperature measures just 47.8 degrees Fahrenheit.

Location

The spring sits in the high country of the Blue Mountains at 4,556 feet elevation, where the landscape transitions between sagebrush flats and pine-forested ridges. Grant County's basin-and-range topography creates steep terrain with scattered juniper woodlands, while Canyon City lies to the northwest. Annual precipitation reaches 20.7 inches, supplemented by 64.6 inches of snowfall that blankets the area from November through March. The setting combines volcanic geology with sedimentary formations typical of central Oregon's interior ranges.

Visit between late June and September when snowmelt clears access roads and temperatures moderate. High-clearance vehicles help navigate unpaved ranch roads, and visitors should obtain permission before crossing private land. The 4,556-foot elevation brings cool nights even in summer, so pack layers. Deer Creek Guard Station offers cabin rental 15.2 kilometers away.

History of Brisbois Ranch Springs

The spring takes its name from the Brisbois family ranch, though specific development history remains undocumented in available records. The thermal feature appears on early 20th-century survey maps as a watering source for livestock operations in this remote grazing district.

Monthly Climate
30°
Jan
32°
Feb
37°
Mar
44°
Apr
52°
May
60°
Jun
71°
Jul
71°
Aug
62°
Sep
48°
Oct
37°
Nov
29°
Dec
Annual Precip: 20.7 in Annual Snow: 64.6 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 29°F · Water 72°F · +43° contrast
January Air 30°F · Water 72°F · +42° contrast
February Air 32°F · Water 72°F · +40° contrast
December offers 42°F more contrast than August
Current Conditions
65°F
WSW 10.8 mph 29% Good soaking weather
Today 74° Low 41° Sunny 1% precip
Friday 72° Low 38° Partly Sunny
Saturday 77° Low 43° Sunny
Sunday 80° Low 42° Mostly Sunny
Monday 78° Low 43° Sunny
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin 9.4 mi away

Overview Deer Creek Guard Station is located approximately 31 miles from the town of John Day, in central Oregon. It is in a beautiful, quiet location, off the beaten path. From sunup to sundown, the cabin affords opportunities for adventure in exploring, viewing wildlife, or just relaxing and enjoying the wonders of nature all around. The cabin is larger than some, is furnished and offers many comforts. It can be accessed by vehicle. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangemen...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
72°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 72°F (22°C)
Avg Air Temp 48°F
Above Ambient +24°F
Mild soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 431 ft
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Brisbois Ranch Springs?
Brisbois Ranch Springs has a water temperature of 72°F (22°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Brisbois Ranch Springs located?
Brisbois Ranch Springs is located in Grant County, Oregon at 4,556 feet elevation, near Canyon City. Coordinates: 44.0730°N, 119.4270°W.
How do I get to Brisbois Ranch Springs?
Brisbois Ranch Springs has Short Walk road access (431 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Brisbois Ranch Springs?
Yes, Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin is located nearby (9.4 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Brisbois Ranch Springs?
Brisbois Ranch Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Brisbois Ranch Springs crowded?
Brisbois Ranch Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Brisbois Ranch Springs?
Essentials for Brisbois Ranch Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS