Near the northern edge of Central Oregon, where otherworldly rock formations meet the forested foothills of Mount Hood, sits the community of Warm Springs — an acclaimed outdoor destination that’s rich in history and long on views.
The community of 2,500 is in the heart of the Warm Springs Reservation, which covers 644,000 acres and was established by the Treaty with the Tribes of Middle Oregon in 1855. Today, the reservation is home to the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs — comprising the Warm Springs, Wasco and Paiute tribes. Learn more about the history of the Warm Springs Tribe and Reservation.
Over the years, the Confederated Tribes have sought to tell their story through an engaging museum and, most recently, the reopening of the Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort. Away from town, you’ll find plenty more to enjoy around the community of Warm Springs.
Here’s what to expect from the camping, hot springs, and lodging in Warm Springs, Oregon:
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Keep reading to make the most of your next trip to Warm Springs.
Stay & Soak in Warm Springs
If you’re looking for an unforgettable stay, Warm Springs offers a mix of modern lodging and unique soaking experiences. The acclaimed Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort, originally constructed in 1962 and reopened in July 2024, sits near natural mineral-rich hot springs along the Warm Springs River. It offers fully renovated lodge rooms, hand-painted teepees (bedding not provided), and spacious RV sites with full hookups. Many options are pet-friendly, and some include fireplaces. Beyond lodging, guests can enjoy a variety of modern soaking options including private riverside tubs, pools of varying temperatures, a kid-friendly splash pad, and a lazy river. Day passes are also available if you’re not staying the night.
About 10 miles south, the Lake Simtustus Resort offers a different kind of retreat on the shore of its namesake reservoir and in the shadow of craggy peaks. Enjoy luxurious tiny homes (each with a private hot tub and skylight), RV sites, and fully equipped trailers.
Camping & RV Parks in Warm Springs
Clear night skies and the promise of solitude make the area around Warm Springs an ideal camping destination in late spring, summer, and early fall. Here’s a look at camping near Warm Springs, Oregon:
Mecca Flat Campground is a premier first-come, first-served campground featuring tent and RV sites along the banks of the Deschutes Wild and Scenic River. It’s also considered by many to be one of the best fly fishing spots in Central Oregon. As you enjoy the scenic beauty of your campsite, consider hiring a local expert to guide you on the water. Littleleaf Guides, a company based right here in Warm Springs, offers professional guiding services to help you make the most of your fly fishing adventure.
Pelton Park, meanwhile, sits along the shores of the manmade Lake Simtustus. The family-friendly campground hosts 67 campsites, including cabins and tent-like yomes, with restrooms, hot showers, an on-site convenience store, and easy river access — where you’ll find a boat launch and watercraft rentals available.
Other Attractions in Warm Springs, Oregon
You’ve booked your stay and picked out the perfect swimsuit for a day in the hot springs; here’s what else to look forward to when you visit Warm Springs, Oregon.
Start by immersing yourself in the area’s history with a visit to The Museum At Warm Springs. The popular museum uses multimedia exhibits to tell stories of the region’s earliest people—through replica lodgings, audio recordings that detail songs and languages, historic photographs, and artifacts.
Almost directly across the street is another popular attraction: Indian Head Casino. There you’ll find blackjack tables, slots, and other popular games; tournaments and other events are held regularly, and a pair of restaurants and bars round out the fun.
Getting hungry? The nonprofit Twisted Teepee food cart serves a mix of comfort-food classics and local delicacies. The menu changes often, but you might find burgers, dumplings, hearty sandwiches, and fry bread with huckleberry butter. See what else the community’s culinary scene has to offer with our guide to hidden restaurants in Warm Springs.
For more ideas, learn more about top things to do in and near Madras, which is about 20 minutes south of Warm Springs via Highway 97.
