Botax Hot Springs

## Overview Borax Lake is a remarkable geothermal feature nestled in the vast Alvord Desert of southeastern Oregon, situated on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land north of the tiny community of Fields. This small, shallow lake is heated by underground thermal vents that raise water temperatures up to approximately 95°F (35°C), creating a striking warm oasis in the high desert landscape at an elevation of roughly 4,060 feet. The lake has a rich history tied to the borax mining industry. An old Borax Works station once operated nearby, where borax was extracted and then transported by mule train all the way to Winnemucca, Nevada. Visitors can still see remnants of the historic station scattered around the area, offering a tangible connection to the region's 19th-century mining past. Borax Lake is also ecologically significant — it is home to the Borax Lake chub (*Gila boraxobius*), a small fish species found nowhere else on Earth. The chub was listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1982, and the lake and its surrounding wetlands are designated as critical habitat for this species. Because of this, visitors should take care not to disturb the lake's ecosystem. **Important safety note:** Borax Lake contains very high levels of arsenic, making the water unsafe for soaking or any human contact. This is not a recreational hot spring — it is best appreciated as a geological and historical curiosity from the shore. ## Directions 1. From Fields, Oregon, head north on Fields-Denio Road (also known as the Alvord Desert Road). 2. Watch for a turnoff leading west toward Borax Lake. The route involves unpaved, bumpy desert roads across BLM land. 3. You can drive all the way to the lake if your vehicle can handle rough terrain, though some visitors prefer to bike or walk the final stretch. 4. **GPS coordinates:** 42.327, -118.602 — use these for navigation, as signage in the area is minimal. **Road conditions:** Access roads can become impassable when wet. Plan your visit during dry weather. Be aware that the fine clay and sand particles common in the Alvord Desert can infiltrate your vehicle and belongings — take precautions to protect sensitive equipment. Bring plenty of water, as there are no services between Fields and the lake. ## What to Expect Borax Lake sits in one of the most remote and starkly beautiful landscapes in Oregon. The Alvord Desert stretches out in every direction, with the dramatic Steens Mountain escarpment visible to the west. Visitor traffic is low, and the area has a strong sense of solitude and wilderness. - **Water:** The thermally heated lake reaches temperatures around 95°F. The water contains dangerously high arsenic levels — do not wade, swim, or soak. - **Wildlife:** Moderate to high wildlife presence. In addition to the endemic Borax Lake chub, the surrounding desert supports pronghorn, jackrabbits, raptors, and various reptiles. - **Bugs:** Expect moderate insect activity, particularly in warmer months. - **Trash:** The area is generally clean with low litter, but please pack out everything you bring in. - **Camping:** No on-site camping, but dispersed camping is available nearby on BLM land. - **Clothing:** Clothing optional, given the remote location and low visitation. - **Facilities:** No pit toilets or other amenities on-site. The closest food and gas are in Fields. - **Season:** Accessible year-round in theory, but access roads are impassable when wet. Summer and early fall offer the most reliable conditions. - **Nearby attractions:** The Alvord Desert playa, Alvord Hot Springs (which does allow soaking), and Mickey Hot Springs are all in the vicinity, making this a worthwhile stop on a southeastern Oregon hot springs tour.