Unnamed Thermal Spring
A 154°F hot spring within Malheur National Wildlife Refuge at 4,122 feet elevation, measuring 66.6°C in recent USGS surveys with pH 7.2. The thermal output exceeds ambient air temperature by 104 degrees, making it one of the refuge's most powerful geothermal features. Access requires a 1,090-foot walk from South Harney Lake Lane across restricted refuge lands managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service.
The spring emerges in the high desert wetland complex of the Harney Basin, surrounded by alkali flats, seasonal marshes, and sage steppe. Elevation at 4,122 feet places it in the Great Basin's northern extent where annual precipitation totals just 11.6 inches and snowfall averages 21.7 inches. Average air temperature reaches 49.9°F. The surrounding refuge encompasses critical migratory bird habitat where thermal springs create year-round open water in otherwise frozen winter wetlands.
The refuge restricts access to protect nesting and migratory birds, particularly during spring and summer breeding seasons. Visitors should contact Malheur NWR headquarters before attempting to reach any thermal features. The region experiences extreme temperature swings and winter conditions that can make travel hazardous. The spring's high temperature makes it unsuitable for bathing. Observe all refuge regulations regarding closed areas and seasonal restrictions.
Malheur National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt to protect critical waterfowl breeding and migration habitat. The refuge's thermal springs have supported wildlife populations for millennia, with archaeological evidence of Indigenous use throughout the Harney Basin. Current protection status (2) ensures permanent conservation while allowing wildlife-dependent uses under Fish and Wildlife Service regulations that restrict public access to protect sensitive habitat.
The water at This spring is neutral (pH 7.2).
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this spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water is dangerously hot — bring water shoes and test pools carefully.
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