Breitenbush Hot Springs

This is an update to my review from 2019. Yesterday, we made our way back to Breitenbush. Although it has changed a bit post-fire, it was as glorious, magical, and healing as ever. The small cabins are gone and yet we were lucky enough to stay in a tent in "The Aviary." These accommodations are on the "glamping" end of the spectrum: Super comfortable tents complete with a cozy bed, table and chairs, lamp, an electrical outlet for low-powered items, and a rack for our clothes. (We had bedding provided as well.) The Breitenbush community is still warm, the waters are healing, the food is nourishing, and the stars on a full moon night are still mindblowing!

This morn, we walked the "Inner Pathway" which is a space to meditate on the fires, mourn, and feel gratitude. As we sat there, a Mama deer and her two spotted babies were nearby. The babies were jumping all over the place, frolicking and chasing one another. I thought, "Indeed, this is their forest. They don't know the difference from before the fires to now. They are just here, fully living this moment." And so, I humbly took the reminder and I felt even more love and appreciation for the space. and for *everything.*

This place brings joy to my heart everytime I visit. The welcoming and helpful residents are a refreshing breath of fresh air. The fire damage took its toll on the property, but despite that they are rebuilding and making the best of it. The grand lodge survived. The hot springs rejuvenated my spirit and they can do the same for you.

Breitenbush is a one of a kind hot spring resort, natural pools, rustic but comfortable lodge. Plenty of opportunity to relax outside and commune with nature. Post fires they haven't rebuilt the cabins yet and almost all the hiking trails are closed. But otherwise it's as wonderful as ever. (Edited spelling)

Food was delicious Hotsprings steam and soaking tubs were healing and soothing They are working hard to clean up after the fires a few years ago. I will be back again.

We went for our first visit since the fire. Driving in and reading the fire wall is heart breaking, but the experience is still amazing. They lost a lot of cabins, and things are in flux, but it is yet a peaceful retreat with most excellent hot water. The library was sacrificed for overnight guests and the food service worked differently but we easily found other places to lounge and thought our lunch was as delicious as ever.

Great experience. We will go back for sure. However, if you have a food allergy beware! When we were there they served a gluten free bread, and we thought, wow this is the best gluten free bread ever! Turns out it wasn't gluten free. I don't think they are very strict on their food allergy practice. Be careful. Other than that it was a fantastic time.

If I could taste 0 stars I would. Completely overbooked for the # of pools available. They have room for 11 parties in the 7 pools. Plus some claw foot tubs The single person claw foot tubs are not big enough for a 6ft person, it's impossible to have your shoulders and knees underwater at the same time. Plus the water going to them was not hot enough to heat the cold porcelain tub, it was like a luke warm bath.

I walked back and forth multiple times from pool to pool for over 90 minutes waiting for a spot to open before i decided to call it and start the 3hr drive home. I tried to talk to the person in charge at the front desk all I got was ""sorry about that you must have come during a busy time". Meanwhile three more car loads of people pulled up before I left. Wasted $35 on the non refundable day use fee plus 6hrs in driving I'll never get back. Not to mention the prices are obscene, over $100 to camp in a field and use a porto potty? This Isn't a festival ahhahhahh

I cant even review this place because they are full on reservations all the time. i heard its meh tho from everyone else. wouldnt know tho. cant even go in for a day pass.

5 stars for the upkeep and beauty of this place, especially after the devasting fire of 2020! There is something special about this water. Felt so healing. A beautiful place, with plenty of different pools to soak, and nice lodging options. Great organic food they make and serve, great vibes from the staff. The staff was friendly and decently helpful.

The only complaint I have has to do with our arrival. We arrived just after sunset, and were given directions to our yurt, and a map. It was dark and rainy, and quite difficult to find, as we struggled through forest and mud with our cart full of luggage. Luckily, we had a spare tarp to throw over our stuff, so that it didn't get soaked. This was not a fun experience, especially after traveling 2.5 hours on the road to get there.

I think it would be reasonable to have staff who is made responsible to transport guests and their items with the golf carts I noticed on site. So hopefully they set that up. Otherwise, I recommend getting there during daylight, and when it's dry. And bring a tarp just in case! :D

Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat is a very special place. I attended a BIPOC wellness weekend here and felt all my cares tensions and problems melt away. The springs are the perfect mix of rustic and luxurious with a lot of room and built in stone seating and perches. I stayed in a platform tent and it was quite lovely with a pad included and a little front porch for drying off our towels.

I am quite tall and I was able to stand up in the platform tent. I'm giving five stars even though the food was pretty bad because That's how good the experience overall was. I look forward to going back for additional BIPOC weekends if they become more there.

This is the kind of Heal-Your-Soul kind of place. A unique and holy place to pray, dance, sing, cry, connect, grow, and love. Go there and soak in the hot springs. visit the Labyrinth and the River, join a well being workshop, and detox from a busy life. Accommodations: Pre wildfire 2020 - Breitenbush could accommodate you in their roughly 40 Geo-heated cabins, built (i believe) 100 years ago. Unfortunately, those cabins 40 ish cabins were burned to Ash last year during the Oregon Wildfires. Soo this summer and until the working staff resurrect new structures *hopefully cob cottages* accommodations will be BYOT camping, glamping, and vehicle camping.

Come on campers! #Vanlife Hopefully this summer we can all go visit the hot springs for a long awaited soak! But, in the mean time, why not check out their merchandise website where proceeds go towards the rebuild and reopening! Whoo hoo! And those Phoenix Tees?! Oh yeah gotta get one of them babies!

The most magical, wonderful place I've ever been. I always feel so nourished, restored and at peace here -/ and for a long time after. Thank you BB for being a sanctuary for us all. So so so much gratitude for you!

This glorious old establishment is an amazing retreat from my worries and cares! The food is exceptional! Nothing ever tastes the same when I return home. :) The cabins are great! I prefer an in cabin bathroom, but it's not a big deal to take a short walk to the loo. The old lodge is warm and welcoming, and the variety of quaint meeting houses throughout the grounds is charming.

So many hot springs to choose from throughout the property! They are all well maintained and sitting in the farthest tub watching the night sky is the very best! Very safe and secure atmosphere throughout the grounds. I highly recommend a loooooong visit! :)

Spent a lovely 48 hours at breitenbush. the setting is beautiful, the staff is helpful, and the food is decent vegetarian fare (excellent marinara sauce). the cabins are simple, but adequate. the hot springs range from mild to quite hot, with a cold plunge to complete the experience. there was a group of women who were oblivious to how obnoxious their loud, insipid conversations were, so we avoided them. hiking and dipping in the river were fun too. the highlight of the stay was sitting in the dark at the "silent pool" where my meditation was interrupted by a woman who ripped the loudest, juiciest fart imaginable. it sounded like she sat on a giant bullfrog. i was the only one immature enough to giggle.which is a credit to the type of people who visit breitenbush. good times.

What a wonderful relaxing experience. We just went for the day and it was $28. Lunch was an additional $14. The day pass was valid from 9am to 6pm. Make sure to call to book your reservation before hand. Next time we go we will probably stay the night since that includes meals and all the amenities. All meals are served buffet style and are vegetarian with lots of vegan and gluten free options.

Cold and hot teas are available all day located in the main lodge. The amenities included are hot springs (everyone was completely naked but clothing is optional), the sauna, library, and daily yoga and mediation classes. Make sure to tell your friends and family you are going because once there you have no cell phone service (no wifi either!) It's perfect for a getaway.

I recommend checking online before going and signing up for one of their paid for yoga/mediation retreats. If you are going in the winter make sure you have chains for your car. Staff was friendly and everyone there was respectful. Highly recommend this little oasis to anyone!

This place is hidden away in the mountains, very natural and serene. It was definitely a new experience for my girlfriend and I. I have been to many Korean spas in the past but none compares to the hot spring retreat here. The weather for that weekend was cold and rainy and it was perfect for the hot springs. The hot springs range from 100 to 110 degrees.

It was very relaxing for a day trip and we enjoyed ourselves after a long day of driving and hiking. Definitely an escape here. At first it was a little awkward having to strip down butt naked, but you get used to it and it's not a big deal. We signed up for the dinner and they were serving Mexican food buffet style. The food was clean, good and vegan/vegetarian which fit with the whole scene of the place.

The salad was really good with the honey mustard sauce. Spoke to a few different guests and they were all returning visitors. I can see why people love this place and keep coming back. Note: make sure you are clear with the directions on your way here and print out directions. Maps have failed us and there is bad service there so it is easily to get lost. (we were going 30 min in the wrong direction).

One of my absolute favorite places on earth. Perfect, peaceful setting. Clean, well maintained facility. All of the lodging and amenities are comfortable and beautifully designed. Their daily well-being program offerings are varied and include physical classes like yoga, mental classes like meditation, and even tours of their facility. The vegetarian food is INCREDIBLE and hearty.

I was worried initially because I'm very much a meat lover, but after experiencing how amazing their meals are, I'm actually considering the possibility of changing my diet. I LOVE that the community's mission is to limit their environmental impact and create a space of inclusion and harmony. You feel good just being there, unplugging, and knowing you're in a very special place. Lodging could get a bit pricey as the nights add up but I appreciate that they have camping options to keep costs low during the summer season.

I was here on two separate personal retreats within one month, and haven't stopped thinking about when I could go back next. Both times were transformative, life-changing experiences for me.

The first thing you need to understand is that this place is owned by 40 residents who do their best to keep it enticing for guests, despite the capital costs in maintaining water systems, sewer lines, geothermal heat, old cabins, hot tubs and much more. They have reasonable prices compared to other retreat spots. They've kept up the critical stuff.

So yes, I wish the cabins were bigger and more renovations of them were done (floors). Yes, the food is not of the caliber of Esalen or Tasajara and at Bbush it rates a B, better than when I went in 2009. Yes, it might be nice to have the cabin swept out by staff during your stay, but that is hardly a high priority when they provide you a broom. Yes, I found all the rooms (cabins and common areas) way to warm and it was my #1 complaint.

You can open the windows, but still they are overly heated by the geothermal system. Bring your robe, as changing/shedding clothes at the tubs is a pain. Be ready for rain during the winter and beyond. Bring nonglass drinks, caffeine if you want that. Expect the dining room to be crowded during a wet day, but there are ways to get away from that crowd.

If you are going solo, either go on private retreat and expect to inject yourself into conversations at meals or escape to quiet parts of the resort. If you want human interaction regularly, book a workshop. They've increased the number of benches and places to sit by yourself, though they aren't always comfy. Bring a camp chair. Don't forget your towel, pillow and sheets and headlamp.

Critical stuff. I hope they continue to hold more and more men's retreats and that they begin to reach out to ethnic minorities and LGBT (beyond the Radical Fairies), as this is a predominantly female crowd. And I hope they do more to improve the ability to control the heat.

A warm group of folks taking such good care of you! There is massage available at additional cost per reservation. The cabins are sweet not rustic but not lodge like. They use hydrothermal energy from river close by. Enjoy!

Natural hot springs, beautiful trails for hiking, free and interesting activities, delicious vegetarian meals provided 3x's per day. It was a blissful weekend. My friend and I stayed for two nights this month (January). I was delighted by the thermal heating in the cabin and in the toilets/showers. The staff and visitors were very friendly and there was a very relaxing energy about the place.

We did a 3 hour walk through the trails, soaked in the hot springs, took a complimentary yoga class in the sanctuary, sang Kirtan, walked the labyrinth and relaxed. Highly recommend.

On my first visit to Breitenbush, I met a woman who had traveled across the United States with her husband checking out different hot spring resorts. She said that Breitenbush was her favorite. On my second visit, I met a man who said that he had been coming for 25 years. He indicated that it was part of his life. Now that I have done some research about other locations, both in Oregon and elsewhere, I am inclined to agree with both of them.

The cabins are rustic, reminding me of my childhood summer camp experiences. You need to bring your own bedding. The food is organic and vegetarian. As many other reviewers have pointed out, if that is a problem for you, bring some beef jerky or equivalent protein sources. Be prepared to disconnect from the outside world. There is absolutely no cell phone service.

I found that a blissful experience. Breitenbush is definitely a premium experience, and their workshop offerings are priced accordingly. I took a four-day workshop in Thai massage with some friends. The workshop was staffed with three teachers, so there was ample individual coaching for all of us. There is no doubt that I will return for the advanced version of the workshop next year. And, of course, the hot springs are the real reason to come. Peaceful, with graceful overhanging trees, and beautifully-laid river rocks carefully selected for comfort for bare bodies.

The clothing-optional vibe is friendly and relaxed. Nobody really cares what you are wearing, or not wearing. TIP 1: If you are on the real budget, it is possible to camp at one of the nearby state campgrounds and purchase a day pass to soak at Breitenbush. TIP 2: If you camp outside, make sure that you purchase a day pass in advance over the phone.

They manage the number of guests carefully to ensure that the springs themselves are not filled to capacity. Prospective guests without advance arrangements are sometimes turned away. A day pass will give you access to all of their free offerings, including yoga, various instructional workshops, and ecstatic dance in the evening some nights. Well worth it!

CHILDREN. Need I say more? Apparently, some parents think it's cool to chat and let their kids jump in and out of the spiral pools like they're at a public swimming pool. So, there you are, stuck waiting for three 7 to 9 year-olds to get out of the water so you can cool yourself down. And forget about reconnecting with your inner self, the universe, or whatever wishful idea you might have had to meditate.

The little girls were not behaving "bad"; it's just that this is not what I would consider to be an appropriate setting for water play. Four stars, because I can't really fault the place for the inconsiderate behavior of some adults who should know better.

I wish there were negative stars. They deserve it. Even if a clothing optional is your thing and it doesn't bother you and your family, still don't go there. The senior receptionist, she was extremely rude. She was so rude that I wish she was man so I could ****. She refuse to let a 71 years old man with kidney problems who unknowingly drove for over 2 and half hours use a clean bathroom which was 20 feet away.

She made a pour old women who accompanied us on this trip to walk over a 1000 yards to get back to our car which she knowingly made us move behind the gates. The poor thing was so out of breath that we had to help her back to our car. I tired of being polite so **** you and **** your establishment. I promise that you will hear from my lawyer very soon.

Just had my first weekend visit to BB. Amazing in every way. Staff were cheerful and welcoming and the food was delicious and filling for this carnivore woman. I knew to bring my own coffee, no big deal, they supply those plastic drip cones and filters so it was easy to get my morning java. There are a variety of lodging options, all of which are on the rustic side. perfect for the setting.

I stayed in a Lodge room - there are only two - and any concerns I had about excessive noise quickly evaporated. Besides, you barely spend time in your sleeping space. BB is about being outdoors as much as you can! The soaking pools are so rejuvenating. The upper pools are made from stone with large smooth stones designed for comfortable seating. The lower spiral tubs are tile tubs, smaller though there is a cold plunge pool in this area for those wanting that Arctic rush post-soaking.

All pools are emptied and refilled 3x a day during meal times. Very clear and clean! Most guests soak au naturale, but those who prefer suits are not awkwardly out of place. Very free atmosphere, especially for this body-shy middle-aged woman. The natural setting of the forest and river is so healing and restive. The BB property is spread out, mostly flat ground tho there are a couple slopes to manage.

Be aware that there is much walking, tho the paths are well maintained. I enjoyed every bit of it. I came for the springs and the forest and was blessed by much more. Be sure to check out the gift shop. Wonderful selection of books, jewelry, art and even chocolate! Oh, and I booked a massage. 90 minutes that took me to a state of deep relaxation that I had forgotten I could achieve. Im already scanning my calendar to figure out when I can return!

My fiance and I spent a weekend here and had a fantastic time! First off, for those that are unaware BHS is an Intentional Community, where most of the workers live here permanently and co-own/manage this beautiful property. Their goal is to provide a safe sanctuary where visitors can rest, replenish their spirit, meditate, learn, and relax in a safe, respectful, and sustainable environment.

The camp is beautiful, all the staff I encountered were friendly, and all the hot tubs, buildings, and facilities were well maintained. Oh yeah, and when staying there overnight the included all you can eat buffet style vegetarian meals were great considering it's large-scale cooking for up to 200 people. All the ingredients are organic and as local/sustainable as possible, and they're able to accommodate most special diets (including vegan, lactose/dairy free, gluten free, etc.) Although some come for their workshops, the naturally heated hot springs are really what make it special.

There are 7 different springs available: a set of 3 large pools, and a set of 4 smaller tubs of varying temperature. Be aware that all the hot springs are clothing optional, and by my estimation ~80% of the visitors soaked sans clothing. Other free activities include: hiking, open spaces and instructed classes in yoga, drum circle, meditation, EDGU, library, Inipi ceremony, multiple children's play areas, and a tour of their hydroelectric dam. Schedules of said events vary by the day. Overnight prices range from $60-130/person per night depending on season and type of lodging (cheapest is tent camping, most expensive is a private cabin w/ toilet & sink).

Because they are "off the grid" and have no cell phone or internet access and very limited electricity, be prepared to live simply when visiting. The only thing that could use some updating is their reservation system: Currently you can check availability on the website, but you have to call and speak with someone over the phone to make a reservation. It's a little antiquated, but I'll admit given their spotty internet access online reservations probably isn't a practical option.

An earlier post summarized this place as an adult summer camp. That is an accurate description, but it's much cooler than it sounds! I'm 25ish and I loved this place. The nature, hikes, food, people, steams, soaks, rivers, cabins. I could go on forever, but you won't fully appreciate this place until you see it and experience it for yourself. Let's just say it doesn't get much better than starting your day with a hearty, healthy meal, hiking to the top of a scenic mountain, and making it back in time to soak your bones in one of seven naturally heated pools.

Just try to make it back in time for dinner! This is a change of pace for people living busy lives, as Breirenbush asks its guests to tune out from electronics and into nature. UPDATE: I've downgraded to three stars (from 5) because after my most recent visit to Breitenbush, I found that, at least during the summer months, this area is infested with young children (newborns included). They're even building a play structure to accommodate the kids.

From what I understand this is a huge departure from BB's original mission. It's hard to have a calming, meditative experience when you hear newborns crying throughout the day and night. Now BB is less like an adult summer camp, and more like a regular old summer camp with an added perk--the natural hot springs.

I grew up where hot springs were unheard of. So the idea of being in mountains, surrounded by wild fir trees soaking in steaming water coming from below while it is snowing, sunning or raining above is special! I've talked a bit with the staff. Connect and you can visit their side of the river. The hot springs were a big resort thing long, long ago, 1930's-'40's, but went into decline and decrepitude.

A hippie trust funder purchased it but realized the labor to restore it and operate it would be prohibitively expensive. Thus began its current reincarnation on Oregon earth as a community, with live-in workers doing all the work. Not sure who owns what now. All the staff I've met have been warm and hip, the organic best ever of people. There are many small private cabins on the resort side of the river. Heating in them is regulated by opening the windows to let heat, from the iron hot water radiators fed by underground pipes, escape.

That we can just throw away precious energy is crazy. In a good way! Breitenbush gets its drinking water purified from the Breitenbush River. They thought to drill a well for drinking, but every well they drilled turned up only hot water! Though there are high voltage transmission lines overhead, Breitenbush gets all its electricity from a hydroelectric generator right on site!

They have a steam room, a primitive cedar building sitting over a steam well. It's unlit, dark and scary to enter at night, where you are thinking you are about to walk off some edge in the slatted floor and perish in the volcanoes of Mordor. So bring flashlights to get around at night. Have visited more than once. Suggest when you book, you check what other events are there at the same time.

We visited once when almost all visitors but us were on a vipassana yoga retreat. That's cool, but it's no talking at all, period, for them, or around them. I'm interactive, so not communicating with people around me is weird. Recommend this place as special and unique, and best experienced with the right expectations. Rustic not posh. You will not be happy if you are allergic to new age organic types. Otherwise cool peeps on staff and visiting. A very special West Coast experience!