Swim Warm Springs
Swim Warm Springs emerges at 79°F within Mount Hood National Forest at 4,063 feet elevation, flowing just 6.9 meters from Whiteaway Trail. Recent USGS measurements confirm 18.4°C water temperature, creating a modest 35.6-degree differential above the 43.4°F ambient air temperature. Water chemistry shows TDS of 405 mg/L with notable sulfate content at 120 mg/L and pH 8.0.
The springs occupy the densely forested western slopes of Mount Hood, where Douglas fir and western hemlock dominate terrain receiving 69.3 inches of annual precipitation and 199.6 inches of snow. The 4,063-foot elevation site sits within the volcanic landscape shaped by Mount Hood's recent geologic activity. Still Creek flows nearby through the canyon carved by Pleistocene glaciation, with the campground bearing its name just 0.7 km distant.
Documentation of the springs' name origin remains limited, though the term Swim suggests recreational use predating modern US Forest Service management. The thermal feature flows on federally protected land subject to extractive use under standard National Forest designation, with public access maintained throughout recorded history.
Heavy snowpack averaging 199.6 inches limits access from November through May, with summer and early fall offering the best visiting conditions. The moderate 79°F temperature suits bathing during the short mountain summer when ambient temperatures rise above the 43.4°F annual average. Still Creek Campground 0.7 km away provides overnight camping with reservations available. Check trail conditions before visiting.
Is Swim Warm Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
The water at Swim Warm Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.0) with 405 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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Overview Still Creek Campground lies in the shadows of majestic Mt. Hood, in Oregon's Mt. Hood National Forest. It is one of the closest campgrounds to the mountain, and offers access to a variety of recreational opportunities. The surrounding area contains hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails, as well as numerous mountain lakes, rivers and creeks.Recreation A variety of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails can be accessed from the campground, including the histo...