Old Bath Houses at Hot Springs - Detroit, Oregon

Amanda R.

What an adventure. The history of the location we haven't looked up yet but the remian of an old bath outside on the river side. Bath tubs and cement tubs are still in place. Bring a bucket reccomend. But there are hoses and plastic pipes there that run water from the hottest pool down to the others. We took out a family of 4 adults, 5 kids, and 3 dogs and had an amazing time. The map takes you to the wrong side of the river, so thank you to the local guy who helped us find the spot. Vague directions but took us exactly to the spot. You nature people will get it. You'll follow the map direction to Detroit, OR. Then, head to Briettenbush, there you'll follow directions to Briettenbush hotsping resort. Along the gravel road to the resort, I'm talking right next door. There is a pull out, very noticeable. You park and head to the left to find the trail, also fairly noticeable. Look for the wooden notice board up in a tree. If you go to it. You're on the trail!
It's less than a 5 minute hike (great hike) down to the water!
My boyfriend and I took the time to connect the hoses and pipes so that all baths are getting the hot water. And we set up a pip to run some colder water into the bath tub along with the hot. The water reaches almost 130° so be careful and make sure adults feel the water before letting the kids get in.
We spent about 4 hours there! It was mostly grey and cloudy and sprinkled a bit, but it was the best weather to enjoy that naturally heated water. Sulfer smell is strongest in the pool furthest from the riverbank and is the hotest water as well. All hoses are running the water from there to other pools. 2 of the "foot baths" refill and have hot hot water coming into them already, so there no need for the hoses in those 2. Just remember to leave the place better than when you found it! Respect the river.

shanail S.

DO NOT CROSS THE RIVER WHEN IT'S HIGH!! Go around to the other side of the river by road. Had to witness two people and their dog at the campground almost drown after we refused to attempt to cross as I grew up white water rafting & kayaking AND KNEW BETTER. I even told my husband I'm not crossing as it's too cold. The woman heard me, but thought I was just some "pretty lady" as she said it.

They asked us to call 911 to help assist and get medical attention as the gentleman couldn't walk after falling down multiple times and bashed his knee & legs. We were not impressed by the choice of these people. They were not physically fit to attempt such a thing, and the water was cold as ice, fast and hip deep. And they stuffed their dog in a backpack and zipped it in as they were falling down and almost drowning themselves & the dog. PLEASE DON'T GET IN WATER THAT'S FREEZING.

Jon S.

This is one of my favorite places to visit. The springs have such a relaxing and healing effect that it is a great exoerience solo or with friends. The short hike can get a littke difficult if you are trying to tote wheels. Be prepared to two man carry any wagons or large coolers past a few trouble spots.

Dahlia R.

I think that these primitive bath house are hot 🥵 but not to clean in my opinion.

E S.

It's a beautiful spot right on the river. The hike in isn't bad and is pretty fun because there's a few creeks you have to cross and there may or may not be makeshift bridges to cross them. The hot springs themselves are basically ruins, but because they still have hot and warm water in them, and are free access to anyone willing to hike in, are still utilized. I'd recommend at least checking it out.

Amy B.

This is my happy place it's the place I go to recharge to let go and forget about the world for awhile. To those who disrespect the springs and trash the place leaving your garbage behind, YOUR THE REASON WE CANT HAVE NICE THINGS! YOUR ALSO THE REASON THEY WANT TO TAKE ONE MORE GOOD THING AWAY FROM THE REST OF US. Is that how you think it should be? EVERYONE ELSE THANK YOU FOR ALL THE GOOD TIMES AND ALL THE EFFORT EACH OF YOU GIVE TO KEEPING THE SPRINGS ALIVE AND FREE.

Andrew L.

Sure, it gets trashed. But this place is sacred, and some of us still empty the tubs, clean them, refill them, and pick up the trash. Let's all be good to each other, and this place. pack out 10% more than you pack in.

H M.

The sad reality of public use is trash and glass everywhere. Its really sad people can't pack in and out and maintain a personal level of responsibility so Oregons natural resources aren't ruined. OR LOCKED UP before they can be. . please be respectful.
Also- during the day... When families are here... That have young kids..
You could try to be a little discreet.