Approximately 60 miles outside of Portland along Highway 224 lies Austin Hot Springs. This natural hot spring, heated by volcanic activity, sits in and along the Clackamas River, among the pristine trees of the Mt. Hood National Forest.
There could be several rock pools along the river suitable for qualification depending on the season.
Please be aware of Austin’s 200+ degree bursts of hot water and use extreme caution when soaking in this spring. There are suitable spots to soak, just be very careful to not scald yourself. A waterproof digital thermometer can help locate burst zones.
From Estacada, travel 30 miles southeast on HWY 224, which becomes the Clackamas River Road. Approximately 4 miles east of River Ford Campground the pools can be found nestled along the far side of the Clackamas River.
Austin Hot Springs Soak Stats:
Season: Summer, Fall (avoid during spring runoff, access road often closed during winter)
Type: Roadside
GPS: 45.021 122.009
Map Quad: FISH CREEK MTN. 15 (or Mount Hood National Forest Map)
Elevation: 1,750
Land: Private
Fee: No
Restrictions: Officially closed
Usage: High
Visibility: High
Temp: 116-105 (use thermometer)
Water Clarity: Semi-Clear
Odor: n/a
pH: n/a
Area Features: Clackamas River
Closest Food/Gas: Estacada
Trash: High
Bugs: Moderate-High (seasonally)
Wildlife: Moderate
Camping: Nearby, no on-site
Clothing Optional: Mix
Pit Toilet: No
