Whitehorse Hot Springs

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There couldn't be a more remote mud bath in Oregon than the Whitehorse Hot Springs.

In the southeast desert of the state, about 45 miles south of Burns, Whitehorse is a 4-foot-deep pool about 9 feet wide.

A makeshift dam divides the pool, with a hot side sizzling at a fairly steady 110 degrees and the other side perhaps 10 to 20 degrees cooler.

The crystal-clear water beckons at the end of some long and dusty roads, but for hot springs enthusiasts, the trip is definitely worth the effort.

Because the bottom of the pool is oozing with mud, generations of Oregonians have been taking relaxing mud baths here, and, of course, cleanup is never a problem.

While soaking at Whitehorse and enjoying the desert vistas, you have a chance to see some of Oregon's abundant wildlife. From bats to rabbits, wild horses and antelope, nature's creatures are never far away.

Because of its out-of-the-way location, visitors should plan to camp overnight at the nearby, year-round, undeveloped Bureau of Land Management campground. Before heading out, check with the BLM's Vale District office, 541-473-3144, or the Burns office at 541-573-4400. The Burns office also offers an e-mail address, OR_Burns_Mail@blm.gov.

You'll find a map and directions to the springs at http://oregonhotsprings.immunenet.com/whthorse.htm.

Writer Bill Miller lives in Shady Cove. Reach him at newsmiller@yahoo.com.

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