Barnes Warm Springs

What is the location of Barnes Warm Springs?

Barnes Warm Springs is located in Oregon, southeast of the small town of Frenchglen. The spring lies 1.2 miles southeast of Frenchglen, near the Steens Mountain Loop Road. It is positioned close to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and adjacent to the ruins of an old homesite. The geographic coordinates of Barnes Warm Springs are 42°48′54″ N latitude and 118°54′1.65″ W longitude. The spring is situated 61 miles south of Burns, the nearest major town.

What is the access type and route to Barnes Warm Springs?

Access to Barnes Warm Springs requires a hike along designated trails. Visitors can reach the spring by driving any vehicle to the trailhead, then hiking 0.8 to 0.85 miles. The most direct route begins from Burns via Highway 78 (OR-78) for 1.2 miles, then south on Highway 205 (OR-205) for 58.2 miles to Frenchglen. After passing the Frenchglen Hotel, travelers turn onto the Steens Mountain Loop Road for 0.3 miles until reaching a fork, then bear right and park near the gate. From the parking area, the Barnes Springs Footpath leads 0.85 miles to the spring. An alternate trailhead is accessible from a gated gravel road east of Steens Mountain Loop Road. No booking is required for access.

What are the opening hours and entry fees of Barnes Warm Springs?

Barnes Warm Springs is open year-round and does not charge any entry fee. Visitors can access the spring at any time during the year without needing a reservation or parking pass.

What is the temperature of Barnes Warm Springs?

The temperature of Barnes Warm Springs ranges from 88°F to 90°F (31°C to 32°C). The thermal water is classified as slightly warm, making it suitable for soaking during the warmer months.

What types of pools are present at Barnes Warm Springs?

Barnes Warm Springs contains a single natural pool. The pool is rock-lined, allowing for informal soaking in a rustic geothermal setting. The depth of the pool is not specified in the available data.

What is the water composition and smell intensity of Barnes Warm Springs?

The water composition of Barnes Warm Springs is not specified. The smell intensity of the thermal water is also not documented in the available information.

What are the clothing, pet, and family policies at Barnes Warm Springs?

Barnes Warm Springs allows clothing-optional soaking. Pets are permitted but must remain on a leash. The spring’s suitability for children is not specified in the available source.

What is the accessibility status of Barnes Warm Springs?

Barnes Warm Springs is not wheelchair accessible due to the required hike. The trail to the spring spans 0.8 to 0.85 miles and includes uneven terrain. No facilities are provided along the trail or at the spring site.

What accommodations are available near Barnes Warm Springs?

Barnes Warm Springs is located 0.3 miles north of the historic Frenchglen Hotel, which offers lodging. Page Springs Campground lies 3.3 miles southwest of the spring and provides camping options. Both accommodations are situated within close proximity to the spring and support overnight stays for visitors.

What parking options are available at Barnes Warm Springs?

Barnes Warm Springs offers free parking near the trailhead gate. A pullout is available at the gated gravel road east of Steens Mountain Loop Road. No parking pass is required.

What is the best season to visit Barnes Warm Springs?

The best season to visit Barnes Warm Springs is during summer, from June to September. The slightly warm water temperature is most comfortable during this period, and trail conditions are generally favorable.

What attractions are located near Barnes Warm Springs?

Barnes Warm Springs is located near several natural and cultural attractions. Nearby sites include Steens Mountain, Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, and Borax Hot Springs. Other geothermal sites in the region include Hart Mountain Hot Springs, Alvord Hot Springs, and Crystal Crane Hot Springs. The area also includes a designated State Heritage Site. For more information, visit the official resource at https://oregondiscovery.com/barnes-warm-springs.