Bagby Hot Springs - Updated 2025 Guide
Photo courtesy of David Silverman
Within the Mount Hood National Forest in Oregon, Bagby Hot Springs offers a rustic and memorable soaking experience. With its iconic cedar-soaking tubs, steam rising through the forest, and a touch of off-the-grid charm, Bagby has become a sought-after destination for Oregonians and adventurous travelers alike. Its location in Estacada, Oregon makes it a go-to destination for both travelers and natives.
Understanding Bagby Hot Springs
Bathhouses: At Bagby Hot Springs, there are 3 bath houses. Bathhouse 1 features a public deck with one whiskey barrel style tub that can fit up to 8 people. Bathhouse 2 is a partially covered private deck that has unique hollowed out cedar logs, each in it’s own private room. Bathhouse 3 is another large deck which consists of whiskey barrel soaking tub for up to 8 people and 3 single metal tubs. Bathhouses 1 and 3 are communal soaking tubs and are shared.
Note: As of writing, Bathhouse 2 containing the private deck is currently closed.
Natural Geothermal Springs: Three major springs and several minor seeps are found at Bagby Hot Springs. The large bathhouse spring flows 24 gallons per minute at 138 degrees Fahrenheit. The other springs flow at 15 gallons per minute at 136 degrees F and 3 gallons per minute at 120 degrees F.
Rustic Setting: Bagby Hot Springs maintains an unpolished, even slightly rough-around-the-edges character. Expect limited amenities.
A Brief History
Bagby Hot Springs has a colorful past woven into the history of the Pacific Northwest. Tucked deep within Oregon’s Mt. Hood National Forest, Bagby Hot Springs has long been a sought-after retreat for those drawn to its steamy, mineral-rich waters. Named after Bob Bagby, a frequent visitor, the springs gained a reputation for their supposed healing properties, attracting both health seekers and campers alike. In 1913, Forest Service employee Phillip Putz constructed the Bagby Guard Station, a rustic cedar cabin built from logs he cut himself. Over the followin years, additional structures, including a bathhouse and barn, were added, and the site became a hub for forest rangers.
Changes at Bagby Hot Springs
In 2023, after years of closure and nelect, Bagby Hot Springs transitioned to a private company, Bagby Preservation, Inc. who have made many positive changes to the hot springs and surrounding area including:
Cleaning up thousands of pounds of debris
Repairing, restoring and improving the neglected hot springs
Renovating the Ripplebrook Store
Removing hazard trees from the Bagby Campground and trailhead area
Keeping staff onsite 24/7
Soaking in the hot springs became fully operational in 2024 and they have many improvements planned for 2025 to make Bagby safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Things to Do at Bagby Hot Springs
Soaking: The heart of the experience is, of course, soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters that fill cedar logs which were hand crafted by locals using trees from the surrounding forest.
Hiking: The Bagby Hot Springs Trail is an easy 1.5-mile hike (approximately, one way) with a beautiful forest setting.
Bagby Guard Station: Visit the rustic cabin that was added to the National Register of Historic Places in September 1999. It is adjacent to the hot springs.
Exploring Further: Bagby can be a basecamp for exploring other trails and attractions within the Mount Hood National Forest.
Bagby Accommodations
Since Bagby is located deep in the forest, overnight accommodation options are limited to:
Camping: Bagby Campground offers sites on a first come, first serve basis and each site has a capacity of 6 people and 2 vehicles. The cost is $25 per night (+$8/night for extra vehicle) and is located along the Hot Springs fork of the Collawash River, adjacent to the trailhead. The campground is closed after Labor Day until April or May, depending on weather.
Nearby Towns: Estacada and other towns in the area offer more traditional lodging options.
Practical Tips for Visiting
Fee: $5 per person soaking fee. Only cash is accepted on site or by a credit card at the Ripplebrook Store.
Hike: Although easy, be prepared for hike (3-mile round trip with 200 feet of elevation gain).
What to Bring: Pack your swimsuit, towel, cash, drinking water (there is no potable water there), sandals or water shoes, a headlamp or flashlight for evenings, and snacks.
Alcohol Ban - Alcohol is not allowed from the trailhead to and including the hot springs.
Safety - There is no cell service. Carry a map or download one before heading out. Also let someone know when you head out and when you expect to be back.
Driving - Although the road is paved, be prepared for rain, snow, and rockfall which may prevent access to the hot springs. Check the live video and updates on road conditions on the Bagby Preservation website.
Parking - Stay off the white fog line if parking on the road or you may get a ticket for obstruction. Vandalism has occurred at night at the hot springs and to parked vehicles.
Primitive Conditions: Don't expect luxurious amenities. There are basic vault toilets and limited facilities.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all your trash and minimize your impact to respect the environment.
How to Get to Bagby Hot Springs
Location: Bagby Hot Springs is located in the Mount Hood National Forest, approximately 66 miles southeast of Portland, Oregon.
Driving Directions: From Estacada, follow Highway 224 for 26 miles just past the Ripplebrook Store. Then follow Forest Road 46 for 4 miles to the junction of Forest Road 63. Turn right on Forest Road 63 and follow it for 4 miles to the Forest Road 70 junction. Turn right on Forest Road 70 and follow it for 6 miles to the Bagby Trailhead.
Trailhead: The Bagby Hot Springs Trail begins at a designated trailhead with parking. From there it is an easy 1.5 mile hike to the hot springs.
Is Bagby Hot Springs Right for You?
Bagby Hot Springs offers a unique back-to-basics experience. If you enjoy rustic adventures, the beauty of nature, and the allure of off-the-beaten-path hot springs, Bagby will likely be a memorable destination.
