Lost Cabin Spring

Lake County, Oregon · Near Lakeview
42.9330°N, 120.6420°W · 4,251 ft
68°F 4,251 ft Open Roadside Bureau of Land Management Camping nearby (10.7 mi)

Lost Cabin Spring emerges at 68°F on BLM public land in Lake County, sitting just 2.6 meters from the road at 4,251 feet elevation. The lukewarm temperature—18 degrees above ambient air—indicates this is a minor thermal feature rather than a traditional hot spring. BLM's Lakeview District manages the site with unrestricted public access, though the modest temperature and flow attract minimal recreational use.

Location

The spring occupies high desert terrain where annual temperatures average 50°F with only 14 inches of precipitation and 33 inches of snow. This semi-arid landscape supports sagebrush, juniper, and drought-adapted grasses typical of Oregon's Great Basin province. The setting reflects volcanic geology with basin-and-range topography, positioned between Winter Rim to the west and lower valleys to the east. Land use in the surrounding area includes livestock grazing on BLM allotments and dispersed recreation.

The 2.6-meter distance from road provides effortless access, though the 68°F temperature offers no bathing opportunity. Fremont Point Cabin, 17 kilometers distant, provides year-round reservable lodging, though winter access may require snowmobile or foot travel. The site serves as a minor curiosity for travelers rather than a destination. Spring and fall offer pleasant conditions for exploring surrounding BLM lands. Carry water; this is arid country with limited natural sources.

History of Lost Cabin Spring

Documentation of Lost Cabin Spring's name origin remains scarce. The designation suggests an abandoned structure or homestead in the vicinity, reflecting the pattern of failed ranching or mining ventures common in Central Oregon's harsh climate zones. No commercial development occurred at the spring. Current status as open BLM land maintains historical patterns of minimal infrastructure and dispersed public use.

Monthly Climate
31°
Jan
33°
Feb
39°
Mar
46°
Apr
55°
May
63°
Jun
74°
Jul
73°
Aug
64°
Sep
50°
Oct
38°
Nov
30°
Dec
Annual Precip: 13.8 in Annual Snow: 33.1 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 30°F · Water 68°F · +38° contrast
January Air 31°F · Water 68°F · +37° contrast
February Air 33°F · Water 68°F · +35° contrast
December offers 44°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
46°F
SSW 3.6 mph 71% Good soaking weather
Thursday 81° Low 48° Sunny
Friday 77° Low 48° Mostly Sunny
Saturday 81° Low 45° Sunny
Sunday 84° Low 51° Mostly Sunny
Monday 83° Low 49° Sunny
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Fremont Point Cabin 10.7 mi away

Overview Fremont Point Cabin is located on top of the Winter Rim in North Central Lake County, Oregon. The newly constructed cabin, which was completed in the summer of 2015, sits on the same footprint as its predecessor, which was destroyed during a forest fire in 2002. Through numerous donations of funding, materials, and volunteer labor, the cabin has been rebuilt and is now ready for you to enjoy. While the cabin is available year-round, off season access may be limited to foot or snowmob...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
68°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 68°F (20°C)
Avg Air Temp 50°F
Above Ambient +18°F
Mild soaking conditions May
Access
Open
Road Access Roadside
Distance to Road 9 ft
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency Bureau of Land Management
Designation PUB
Unit Lakeview District Lakeview Field Office
Manager Bureau of Land Management
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Lost Cabin Spring?
Lost Cabin Spring has a water temperature of 68°F (20°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Lost Cabin Spring located?
Lost Cabin Spring is located in Lake County, Oregon at 4,251 feet elevation, near Lakeview. Coordinates: 42.9330°N, 120.6420°W.
How do I get to Lost Cabin Spring?
Lost Cabin Spring has Roadside road access (9 ft from the road).
Is Lost Cabin Spring free to visit?
Lost Cabin Spring has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Lost Cabin Spring?
Yes, Fremont Point Cabin is located nearby (10.7 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Lost Cabin Spring?
Lost Cabin Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Lost Cabin Spring crowded?
Lost Cabin Spring is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Lost Cabin Spring?
Essentials for Lost Cabin Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.