Antelope Hot Springs

## Overview Antelope Hot Springs is a remote, free-access natural hot spring located in the high desert of southern Oregon, near the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge. Situated at approximately 42.55°N, 119.65°W, this geothermal spring sits in the rugged, sparsely populated landscape of Lake County — one of the least densely populated areas in the state. The region is known for its volcanic geology, vast sagebrush steppe, and dramatic fault-block mountains, all of which contribute to the geothermal activity that feeds springs like this one. The Hart Mountain area has a long history of human use. Indigenous peoples, including the Northern Paiute, inhabited and traveled through this region for thousands of years, drawn by the area's wildlife, water sources, and seasonal resources. The hot springs in this part of Oregon have historically served as gathering and bathing sites. In 1936, the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge was established to protect pronghorn antelope habitat, and the surrounding landscape remains largely wild and undeveloped today. Antelope Hot Springs should not be confused with the more well-known Hart Mountain Hot Spring (also called Hot Springs Campground), which is a developed soaking pool within the refuge. Antelope Hot Springs is a more primitive, off-the-beaten-path geothermal feature in the same general region. Visitors have reported that the water is warm to hot, consistent with the geothermal characteristics of the area, though exact temperature readings and mineral content data are not currently available for this specific spring. ## Directions 1. From the small community of Plush, Oregon, head north on Hart Mountain Road (also known as the Plush–Hart Mountain Road) toward the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge. 2. Continue into the refuge, following signs and navigating the network of gravel and dirt roads in the area. 3. The GPS coordinates for Antelope Hot Springs are **42.5493°N, 119.6543°W**. A GPS device or offline mapping app is strongly recommended, as cell service is virtually nonexistent in this area. 4. Roads in the refuge are unpaved and can become impassable when wet. A high-clearance vehicle is advisable, and 4WD may be necessary depending on conditions and the time of year. *Note: These directions are based on the GPS coordinates provided and general knowledge of the area. Visitors should confirm road conditions with the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge office or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lakeview District before heading out.* ## What to Expect Antelope Hot Springs is a remote, primitive hot spring experience in the truest sense. Expect no facilities, no signage, and no developed infrastructure — this is wild, open country. The surrounding landscape is characterized by sagebrush flats, rocky outcrops, and sweeping views of the high desert. The area is extremely remote. The nearest services (fuel, food, lodging) are in Plush or Lakeview, Oregon, both of which are small communities with limited amenities. Visitors should come fully prepared with water, food, fuel, and supplies for self-sufficient travel. Wildlife is abundant in the region. Pronghorn antelope, mule deer, bighorn sheep, raptors, and a variety of desert-adapted species are commonly seen. The night skies here are exceptionally dark, making it a rewarding destination for stargazing. Seasonally, the area is most accessible from late spring through early fall. Winter and early spring can bring snow, mud, and road closures. Summer days can be very hot, while nights at this elevation (approximately 5,000–6,000 feet) can be surprisingly cool. As with any natural hot spring, water temperatures can vary and may be extremely hot near the source. Exercise caution when approaching and testing the water. The water has not been formally tested for safety, and no guarantees can be made regarding its potability or suitability for soaking.