Roadland Spring

Harney County, Oregon · Near Hines
43.5010°N, 119.0910°W · 4,137 ft
72°F 4,137 ft Short Walk Camping nearby (21.2 mi)

Roadland Spring flows at 72°F in Harney County, Oregon, confirmed by recent USGS readings of 22°C. The spring emerges at 4,137 feet elevation in high desert terrain, requiring a 942-meter walk from Potter Swamp Road across sagebrush flats near Burns and Hines.

Location

The spring sits in the vast basins of Oregon's interior high desert, where big sagebrush and rabbitbrush dominate at 4,137 feet elevation. Annual precipitation totals just 12.6 inches with 28 inches of snow. Flat to gently rolling terrain stretches for miles, broken by occasional rimrock and dry lakebeds. Potter Swamp, a seasonal wetland, lies nearby. Cattle grazing shapes the landscape pattern.

The 942-meter walk from Potter Swamp Road crosses open terrain without shade or landmarks. Bring GPS navigation and sun protection. Best visiting is April through June when spring temperatures are mild. Winter access is possible but harsh, with high desert winds and occasional heavy snow. Idlewild Campground offers developed camping 34 kilometers north.

History of Roadland Spring

The Roadland name appears in NOAA records from 1980 but its origin is undocumented. The spring likely served as a watering point for livestock on public rangeland, a common pattern in Harney County's settlement history. No resort development or Indigenous documentation has been located. Current status is undeveloped range spring.

Monthly Climate
28°
Jan
32°
Feb
39°
Mar
46°
Apr
55°
May
64°
Jun
74°
Jul
73°
Aug
63°
Sep
49°
Oct
37°
Nov
28°
Dec
Annual Precip: 12.6 in Annual Snow: 27.9 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 28°F · Water 72°F · +44° contrast
December Air 28°F · Water 72°F · +44° contrast
February Air 32°F · Water 72°F · +40° contrast
January offers 46°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
37°F
Clear N 0.0 mph 87% Good soaking weather
Thursday 79° Low 43° Sunny
Friday 77° Low 41° Mostly Sunny
Saturday 78° Low 38° Sunny
Sunday 86° Low 43° Mostly Sunny
Monday 83° Low 44° Sunny
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature 71.6°F (22.0°C) Measured Jun 03, 1968
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Idlewild 21.2 mi away

Overview Idlewild Campground is the perfect place for large gatherings in any weather. In sun, rain or snow, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors while spending time with friends and family. The campground is situated along Highway 395 north of Burns, Oregon. In the summer, it is popular with hikers and mountain bikers. In the winter, visitors can snowmobile and cross-country ski.Recreation Idlewild offers opportunities for camping, picnicking, hiking and mountain biking. Devine Su...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
72°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 72°F (22°C)
Avg Air Temp 49°F
Above Ambient +23°F
Mild soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Nearest Road Potter Swamp Road
Distance to Road 0.6 mi
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Roadland Spring?
Roadland Spring has a water temperature of 72°F (22°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Roadland Spring located?
Roadland Spring is located in Harney County, Oregon at 4,137 feet elevation, near Hines. Coordinates: 43.5010°N, 119.0910°W.
How do I get to Roadland Spring?
Roadland Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Potter Swamp Road (0.6 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Roadland Spring?
Yes, Idlewild is located nearby (21.2 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Roadland Spring?
Roadland Spring 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 Roadland Spring crowded?
Roadland Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Roadland Spring?
Essentials for Roadland Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS