Blue Mountain Hot Springs

## Overview Blue Mountain Hot Springs is a private hot spring property located along Green Haven Road near Prairie City in Grant County, Oregon. Nestled in the scenic John Day Valley at the foot of the Blue Mountains, this site carries a colorful past — it was once reportedly the home of a Winchester Firearms owner and later operated as the Blue Mountain Hot Springs Guest Ranch, which featured a hotel and dance hall that drew visitors from across the region. The hot spring feeds a pool that has been reported at approximately 100°F, making it a comfortable soaking temperature. The property sits on private land and has historically offered on-site camping and basic amenities including a pit toilet. For many years, the guest ranch was a well-known destination for travelers seeking a rustic hot spring experience in eastern Oregon. As of 2002, reports indicate that the springs may have officially closed to the public. The property was historically managed by Helen and Eugene Ricco, and past contact information listed a phone number of (541) 820-3744. Visitors interested in soaking should attempt to confirm current access and any fees or restrictions before making the trip, as the status of the property may have changed. ## Directions 1. From Prairie City, Oregon, head south on local roads toward Green Haven Road. 2. Follow Green Haven Road to the address area of 25800 Green Haven Rd, Prairie City, OR 97869. 3. The hot spring property is roadside and should be visible from the road. Look for signage or structures associated with the former guest ranch. 4. The closest food and gas services are available in Prairie City or the nearby town of John Day. **GPS Coordinates:** 44.354, -118.574 ## What to Expect Blue Mountain Hot Springs is situated on private land in a rural, high-desert setting characteristic of the John Day Valley. The property was historically operated as a guest ranch, and remnants of its past — including structures from the old hotel and dance hall era — may still be present on the grounds. **Water & Soaking:** The hot spring pool has been reported at around 100°F. Water clarity, odor, and pH have not been formally documented in available records. **Facilities:** The property historically offered on-site camping and a pit toilet. Clothing requirements are unknown — visitors should inquire ahead if possible. **Seasonal Notes:** The springs were historically listed as accessible in all seasons. Be aware that bug activity can be moderate to high during warmer months, which is typical for this part of eastern Oregon. Wildlife sightings in the area are moderately common. **Surroundings:** The John Day Valley offers a wealth of natural attractions, including the nearby John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. Prairie City itself is a small, charming town that serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation in the Blue Mountains. **Important:** Because the property is privately owned and has been reported as closed since 2002, visitors should make every effort to contact the landowners or check for updated information before visiting. Trespassing on private land is not advised.