Wilhoit Springs
Wilhoit Springs is a park in the foothills of Clackamas County surrounded by tall fir trees and old forest. Here you can find a cool mineral spring bubbling from the ground along with remnants of the old bathhouse foundation and a hand pump that once drew the mineral water.
The site was discovered in the 1860s by pioneer John Wilhoit and later developed by Frank McLaren into a popular spa resort with a hotel, bathhouse, and cabins. Operations declined in the early 1900s as medical views shifted and fires destroyed the buildings twice, leading Clackamas County to convert the land into a park in 1975.
The springs are named after John Wilhoit, a pioneer who settled here in the 1860s. Visitors today can sit by the bubbling water and imagine the time when many people came believing in its healing qualities.
The park is open year-round with hours that change by season, staying open longer in summer and closing earlier in winter. A small parking area is available, and this is a day-use park only, allowing you to spend several hours walking and exploring the springs.
The soda spring water contains dissolved carbon dioxide that constantly bubbles, making it look and feel different from a typical spring. Craft brewers today still use this mineral-rich water to make beer with a distinctive taste.
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