Soak in the Summer Lake Hot Springs

From Bend drive 32 miles south on Highway 97, through La Pine to Highway 31 (2 miles south of La Pine). Turn left (east) on Highway 31 and continue for 92 miles. Summer Lake Hot Springs is on the left side of the road at mile marker 92.

This is a very rustic area, with old barns and farm equipment scattered around the property. There are even old streamline campers available to stay in. Other accommodations include full hook up RV sites, tent sites and cabins which are all within walking distance to the hot springs. There are also day use options available.

After a nice and relaxing soak in the hot springs after dinner, I grabbed my camera and tripod to spend some quality time under the clear night sky. Even with the moon slightly illuminating the area, the stars were shining bright. The winter milky way sloped up above the mountains and arched right over the bathhouse. Coyotes and local cattle were the only sounds in the dark night. In the morning, you can take another relaxing soak after taking in the beautiful sunrise and alpenglow and then venture off to the small rural town of Paisley. If you're up for it, stop off at the incredible Fort Rock on our way home.