Olene Gap Hot Springs
Olene Gap Hot Springs emerges at 165°F in Klamath County's volcanic landscape, flowing at 4,116 feet elevation and running 116 degrees above ambient air temperature. Located near Altamont, this roadside thermal feature sits just 24 meters from South Poe Valley Road, offering easy access to one of southern Oregon's hotter springs with temperatures approaching scalding levels.
The springs emerge in the transitional zone between the southern Cascade Range and the Klamath Basin at 4,116 feet elevation, where volcanic geology dominates the landscape. The area receives 19.2 inches of annual precipitation with 45 inches falling as snow, supporting open ponderosa pine forest mixed with sagebrush meadows. The Klamath River system drains this region, with the recently restored river visible from nearby vantage points. Mount McLoughlin rises to the north, a prominent volcanic cone.
The springs take their name from nearby Olene, a small community established in the early 20th century, and the geographic gap or pass in the surrounding terrain where the thermal features emerge. The Klamath Basin supported substantial Indigenous populations for millennia, with thermal features likely used for various purposes. Euro-American settlement began in the 1860s, with ranchers and homesteaders utilizing thermal springs as water sources in this semi-arid region.
Visit spring through fall when South Poe Valley Road remains passable; winter snow can close access. The extreme 165°F temperature makes this spring dangerous—maintain safe distances and supervise children closely. Topsy Campground on the Klamath River, 36 kilometers distant, offers non-reservable camping in ponderosa pine forest with fishing and river access. The spring sits at roadside, making it vulnerable to impacts—practice leave-no-trace ethics. Bring adequate water and sun protection.
Is Olene Gap Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Located on the rugged shoreline of the newly restored Klamath River, the Topsy Campground provides a quiet location for relaxing camping, picnicking, fishing, and river boating. The area is set in an open ponderosa pine forest with nearby views of Mount McLoughlin, an icon of the southern Oregon Cascade Mountains.Know Before You Go:Open Season Topsy Campground is open seasonally from May through October.13 Campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads; first come, first serve.Univer...