Belknap Hot Springs Resort

## Overview Belknap Hot Springs Resort is a historic hot springs destination nestled along the banks of the McKenzie River in Oregon's Willamette National Forest. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,700 feet near the small community of McKenzie Bridge, the resort has been welcoming visitors since the 1870s — making it one of the longest-operating hot springs establishments in the Pacific Northwest. The springs were first developed by R.S. Belknap in 1869. By 1874, a post office had been established at the site under the name "Salt Springs," a nod to the mineral character of the geothermal water. The post office operated intermittently — closing in 1877, reopening in 1891, and continuing off and on until 1953. Over the decades, Belknap Hot Springs earned a reputation as a glamorous retreat, reportedly attracting Hollywood stars such as Cary Grant. It is the last surviving resort of several similar hot springs establishments that once dotted Lane County in the late 1800s. Apart from a decade-long closure between 1968 and 1978, the resort has been in continuous operation since its founding. The geothermal source water emerges at temperatures between 100°F and 104°F. The resort channels this water into two concrete mineral pools. The lower pool sits beside the McKenzie River near the main lodge and is open to both day-use visitors and overnight guests — no reservations required. The upper pool, smaller and more secluded, is located uphill near the RV sites and cabins and is reserved exclusively for overnight guests. Both pools are maintained at approximately 102°F in winter and cooled to around 92°F during summer for comfortable soaking. The water is treated with chlorine. At night, the pool lights shift to create a serene, dreamy atmosphere as steam rises off the water. ## Directions Belknap Hot Springs Resort is located at 59298 North Belknap Springs Road, McKenzie Bridge, OR 97413. The resort is roadside and easily accessible by car. 1. From Eugene, Oregon, head east on OR-126 (McKenzie Highway) for approximately 60 miles, following the scenic McKenzie River corridor through the Willamette National Forest. 2. Just east of the small community of McKenzie Bridge, turn north onto North Belknap Springs Road. 3. Follow the road a short distance to the resort entrance. Signage is visible from the highway. **GPS Coordinates:** 44.193, -122.049 The resort is located on private commercial land. The closest food and gas services are in McKenzie Bridge. ## What to Expect ### Soaking & Pools Day-use visitors can enjoy the lower pool without a reservation. Day-use hours run from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (April 1 through September 30) and 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM during winter months. Overnight guests have access to the upper pool on Friday and Saturday nights. All children must be at least two years old and fully potty-trained — swim diapers are not permitted. **Day-Use Pool Rates:** - $8.00 per person for one hour or less (includes bathroom and shower access) - $14.00 per person for full-day access - Pool towel rental: $2.00 ### Grounds & Activities Beyond the hot springs, the resort's grounds are a destination in themselves. Visitors can explore the Secret Gardens, which span both sides of the McKenzie River and feature lush, curated plantings in a magical woodland setting. Walking paths wind throughout the property, and the renowned 26-mile McKenzie River Trail — one of Oregon's premier hiking and mountain biking routes — passes right through the resort. The McKenzie River itself offers world-famous Class III and IV whitewater rapids for adventurous visitors. The resort also hosts weddings and special events. Nearby attractions include Terwilliger (Cougar) Hot Springs and the McKenzie River's many waterfalls and old-growth forests. ### Overnight Accommodations Belknap offers a range of lodging options, all set amid the natural beauty of the forest and river: - **Tent Camping:** $30 per night (double occupancy); $8.00 per additional person per night, up to 6 people per site. Large, private sites are nestled among the trees along the river. - **RV Camping:** $35 per night for water/electric hookups; $40 per night for full hookups (double occupancy); $8.00 per additional person per night, up to 6 people per site. - **Lodge Rooms:** 19 rooms available, ranging from $110 to $185 per night. - **Cabins:** 8 cabins with kitchens and comfortable furnishings, accommodating 2 to 14 guests, ranging from $135 to $550 per night. - **Mountain Rental Homes:** Seven additional rental homes are available along Highway 242. A 9.8% lodging tax applies to all published rates. One pet is allowed per reservation for a $10.00 fee. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak season. The best times for camping are spring, summer, and fall. ### Amenities & Practical Info - The lodge features a small shop with ice, drinks, snacks, and sundries. - WiFi is available in the lodge. - The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM during peak summer season. - Pit toilets are available on the grounds. - The resort is pet-friendly (one pet per reservation). - Trash levels on the property are generally low and the grounds are well maintained. - Expect moderate bug activity and moderate wildlife sightings in the surrounding forest. - Clothing is optional in designated areas. Belknap Hot Springs Resort combines over 150 years of history with the timeless appeal of natural geothermal water, old-growth forest, and one of Oregon's most beautiful river corridors. Whether you're stopping in for an hour-long soak or settling into a cabin for the weekend, it remains one of the Willamette National Forest's most cherished destinations.