Alvord Hot Springs

Out on the edge of the Alvord Desert playa, at the east foot of Steens Mountain, two concrete pools from the 1940s take water that leaves the ground at 170 F and cools as it mixes. It's a long way from anywhere, and that's most of the appeal. Day soakers should phone first, because the owners ask you to call for availability and they don't publish a day-use price. Stay the night in a bunkhouse or campsite and you can soak at any hour. The road in is county gravel, so ask about conditions while you're on the phone, and bring your own linens for the bunkhouse.