Bingham Springs (Bar M Ranch)

## Overview Bingham Springs is a natural spring located along the banks of the Umatilla River in the Blue Mountains of northeastern Oregon, near the small community of Adams. Situated at the Bar M Ranch (58840 Bar M Lane), this spring sits at an elevation in the scenic canyon country of Umatilla County, approximately 45 miles east of Pendleton. Historically, Bingham Springs was the site of a popular resort that operated in the late 1800s and early 1900s, drawing visitors who sought out the area's mineral-rich spring waters for their purported therapeutic properties. The original Bingham Springs Resort was a well-known destination in the region, and the spring waters were historically used as a drinking water source by both indigenous peoples and early settlers. The name "Bingham" has long been associated with this stretch of the Umatilla River canyon, and the springs have been a recognized landmark in the area for well over a century. The spring is located in a rugged, forested canyon setting typical of the Blue Mountains, where volcanic geology and deep basalt formations give rise to naturally filtered groundwater emerging at the surface. The surrounding landscape features ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and riparian vegetation along the Umatilla River corridor. ## Directions 1. From Pendleton, Oregon, head east on **OR-11 North** toward Adams. 2. In Adams, turn east onto **Bar M Lane** (also referenced as the road leading into the Umatilla River canyon toward Bingham Springs). 3. Follow Bar M Lane for approximately 20–25 miles as it winds into the canyon along the Umatilla River. The road becomes increasingly rural and may transition to gravel. 4. The Bar M Ranch and Bingham Springs are located at **58840 Bar M Lane**. Look for ranch signage or property markers. 5. **GPS Coordinates:** 45.7423, -118.2342 *Note: The road into the canyon can be narrow and winding. Conditions may vary seasonally — check local road conditions before visiting, especially in winter and early spring. This is private ranch property, so please verify access and any visitation policies before arriving.* ## What to Expect Bingham Springs is set in a beautiful, remote stretch of the Umatilla River canyon in the Blue Mountains. Visitors will find a peaceful, relatively undeveloped natural setting surrounded by mixed conifer forest and the sounds of the nearby river. The spring emerges in the canyon bottomland, and the water has historically been reported to have a clean, pleasant taste — though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary and has not been independently verified for safety. The area is known for excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with deer, elk, and various bird species commonly spotted in the canyon. The Umatilla River itself offers fishing opportunities, particularly for steelhead and trout in season. Because the spring is located on the Bar M Ranch, this is private property. Visitors should seek permission or confirm any public access arrangements before planning a trip. Cell phone service in the canyon is limited to nonexistent, so plan accordingly. The drive into the canyon is scenic but remote — ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry supplies for the journey.