Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat and Conference Center in
Detroit (OR)

BEWARE: THIS COMPANY DOES NOT CARE ABOUT THE DEAF/HH COMMUNITY. I’ve still not been reimbursed for irrevocable damages to my hearing aids during my stay in December '24 when a rodent came under a flaw in my room’s weather stripping and chewed through my wire during the night. To feed its family, or collect as a shiny trinket, I don't know. I wanted a signed guarantee of reimbursement upon checkout, but there was no mgmt present. Initially, I was encouraged by the speed this seemed to be handled - an email was waiting for me when I got back to town the day of, even if it was extending a cagey “we MAY be able to offer SOME help.” But as the office correspondence continued, I was wary the responder kept swapping out, always with no identifying surname - first a Lauren, then a Cortney, then a Heidi. Each time they said they’d be in touch, they weren’t. They requested an invoice, and did nothing with it. I had to go more than a month without hearing assistance waiting for replacements to arrive. I’d hoped Breitenbush would work out the financials with my audiologist or directly with the manufacturer, but no. I had to re-purchase them. If they weren’t under warranty, I wouldn’t have been able to afford them. If there’s future loss or damages, I’ll have to eat the entire cost. But the company clearly doesn’t care about that, or me, or the hazards of living unassisted. So I recommend if you are D/HH, DO NOT GIVE THIS BUSINESS YOUR BUSINESS.

im torn. i had a good experience in many regards. the pools and environment were really peaceful and not crowded by any means(maybe due to the landslide that was blocking one of the two ways in?). the food felt so nourishing and delicious. however, i stayed in the grove and the room was nice but there was dirt on the floor by and under the bed. it didnt seem like it had been cleaned that deeply. also, the mattress was so uncomfortable. as someone who splurged on this experience, i was honestly really looking forward to sleeping in a nice queen size bed (which i dont have at home). that really bothered me cos… why would i splurge on a room when i could sleep just as comfortably in my car or in a tent? despite those things, i really did enjoy my visit and was hoping to plan a birthday retreat with a few friends. i really want to empathize with the worker co-op reasoning for high prices, people should absolutely be payed fairly! but its just not affordable to rent a yurt for a few people as one working class person myself. the whole experience just made me reflect on the reality that wellness spaces like this price out a lot of folks. im not saying i know the answer, nor do the folks here. and yet, i dont really want to invest in spaces that are filled with the only people who can afford and are attracted to this tailored experience: ie; older hippies who got lucky with the economy and tech DINKs. no hate cos everyone is worthy of experiencing wellness and rest that a place like this provides, but how truly rich can a place like this be when thats the main clientele?

Disappointing. I wasn’t expecting so much loud talking happening everywhere. My mistake because I was thinking it would be similar to a Japanese style onsen. The cafeteria area was pretty loud during meal time, the cabin doors don’t have locks on them, & the hot spring pools were crowded & noisy. We ended up waiting until late evening to enjoy the pools when they were much less crowded & we could sit in peace. Overall there seemed to be larger groups traveling there together rather than singles or couples. If socializing with others while there is what you want to do, you may enjoy it more than I did. And bringing a robe & slippers should be on the must have list on their website. I found the food to be lacking in flavor and ordinary.

Hmmmm.... I am a small business owner and have had a very full year with family obligations and not much time to myself. The intention I had for my breitenbush trip was just to relax and reset. I hadnt been since the burn. I would have to say that unfortunately overall I left more stressed, exhausted and in a worse mood than when I got there. Prior to my visit I meticulously read through the website to make sure I was properly prepared as I really just wanted to have a good time and it had been quite a while since I had been there. During my visit I would say that while yes post burn things are a bit less "lush" but that was to be expected. Actually I thought there was different kind of beauty. The river was amazing and the pools were also. Also the massage and massage temple were exquisite. Also had a great conversation with Kevaya (Ki) in the hotspring which was more of the types of interactions I was expecting. AND..... I had a serious issue with the squirrels destroying my things and taking not only snacks but cosmetics, tea and supplements from my space. When I sought help the gatehouse staff just blamed, shamed and fear Mongered me with zero hospitality or effort to accomodate. They didn't even try to say I'm sorry this happened... or anything to help me feel better, they sent out a guy with a broken broom to chase off the squirrel that wasn't there.. they kept saying that "you're not supposed to have food in your lodging at all". I felt really gaslit and blamed because I didnt read anything on the website that said that and as a matter of fact it seems to encourage people to bring their own food to supplement if they want. This really made me feel bad and dismissed. I mean okay the squirrels ate my stuff, but do people have to make it worse by not only being unhelpful but to blame and shame me? I didnt get it . When I would thank members of the kitchen staff in the hall I would get weird responses that seemed cold, Idk. The whole reason why I went was to relax and I ended up just feeling exhausted and stressed and ended up leaving early. The very last interaction I had was again at the gatehouse when I was letting them know I would check out early... she automatically assumed I was wanting a refund and told me she couldn't give me one.. I was over it and just didn't say anything. I figure I was being kind to let them know so they could clean out the space early. Idk why. I feel bummed that I paid money to go somewhere like this to have people.. treat me like that. I still feel baffled by it. There's got to be something going on because it doesnt seem right .Props to the massage therapist with the blue eyes who gave me the best massage of my life to date in the most beautifully curated space on the grounds, the massage temple. She was so attentive and kind and considerate. The gal on August 3rd in the gift shop just before lunch was also absolutely wonderful and helpful and kind. I will come again as Im hoping it was an off weekend or there's something out of the ordinary going on that would cause folks to behave in such a way. I hope this can be helpful feedback and an opportunity to grow. Hopefully this is helpful to guests to know how to navigate the squirrels.

I’m not going to give Breitenbush a “bad” review, as it’s a magical place and I know they are working hard to rebuild. However, things have changed a bit and this last weekend was a different trip than I’ve had prior. For my trips 4 years ago and 2 year ago, I got everything that I needed to stay warm with the bedding rental. Soaking was easily accessible. Staff was kind and comforting. The food was incredible. This time, I still had a great time but will lower my expectations for next trip and be more prepared. Breitenbush gives the feeling that it has been hit hard by inflation, just like the rest of us. Not their fault. But the experience is slightly altered. I rented bedding, and it did arrive as described. But there was no heated blanket base like I was used to, and we were FREEZING with two thin blankets in our mushroom yurt! The pillows squished into nothing. Bring bedding these days! They also built a ton of new lodging and a bathhouse for showers and restrooms, and the new area is really nice and vibey. Love the new construction. But there were way too many people. Lines for meals were way out the door, and the pools all had 6+ people in them most of the time. It was just way more crowded then before, which I’m sure they need to survive financially. I also talked up the food a lot to my partner before coming here. Last two times I visited, everything felt so healthy, fresh and original! I bought the cookbook. One meal was homemade Hawaiian food, one meal was a sushi bar, with incredible deserts! This time, it felt like casseroles that had been potentially cooked from frozen (still homemade, just bland), a spaghetti bar, no desserts. No protein besides beans. My stomach hurt when I got home, not from food poisoning or anything but it just was kind of mid level carb heavy food, not the magic of before. Will bring healthy protein for myself next time for sure. Also, one member of the staff was incredibly rude. I almost never say that, I don’t think I’m a Karen. But the tall woman with silver hair in the kitchen had about 10 negative interactions with diners in the lodge during one meal that I observed. She raised her voice at me to move (I had moved out of her way, but not the way she wanted me to go, so she yelled). She also physically put her hands on a woman and moved her out of the bar line to replace food. She snapped at another woman who needed a cup washed. I understand she was probably frustrated and having a bad day, but you really shouldn’t physically put your hands on guests, even if it is to move them out of the way. The rest of the staff was great by the way. One dance class and one sustainability tour offered on Saturday, but no group meditation or yoga unless I missed it. All in all, the vibe was different. Still magical, still worth going. But come more prepared than you are used to, and be aware that inflation has impacted us all, including this amazing retreat.

I'm not sure what exactly changed here, but the people running this place are acting totally different from even a few months ago. I placed an ice pack in the shared guest freezer, and it disappeared by the time I finished my breakfast. Staff responses ranged from side eyed attempts to ignore me, telling me I should expect stealing because "it's human nature", and two suggestions that I simply steal one from another guest. They acted like I was some idiot monster for even feeling angry about it, even though I was simply asking to borrow one of their ice packs during the trip. "Luckily" it reappeared after I was told to leave the area briefly/ check with the gift shop. Maybe they are just overwhelmed by the way the owners are capitalizing on the fire to overdevelop the area? There seemed to be more people crowded into the area than usual, yet they're still building all over. There was a strange tension between the leaders and the newer/younger workers and volunteers that I had never noticed before. Overheard some complaining about how people were being lazy or talking back, but they seemed to be working hard for how they are compensated. One of them was even breaking down a bit from the stress. Seems like greed and vanity are taking center stage now, instead of healing and nature. If I return, it will be for short trips with lowered expectations. The waters are still lovely, but I wonder how they will last under the new business plans.

Super relaxing! A true retreat. Price includes 3 absolutely delicious vegetarian buffets per day. Gluten free options available. The flowers around the resort were so pretty. No cell service, no photos allowed. No alcohol or drugs allowed. Bring coffee if you want it. They have hot water. Drinking water available. Bring a bathrobe and slide sandals. Be okay with nudity as most go in nude. Nice clean hot springs with varying temperature options. The reason for the 4 stars rather than 5 is because the second time I went I felt like they over-booked— the hot springs were packed and it was hard to find a spot to soak!! Also on the second visit there were no classes available at all despite it being a busy weekend. I was disappointed because at our first there was ecstatic dance in the evening and yoga and meditation offered in the morning. That felt like part of the experience and made it more of a full worthwhile experience! Overall though, it is lovely.

This place is amazing! The organic local lunch is so tasty and the soaking pools were clean and welcoming. It’s clothing option but most folks are nude. There’s a lot of logging and fire damage in the area which is a bit hard to see.

Beautiful and relaxing hot springs in a beautiful setting! We spent two nights there and greatly enjoyed our stay. Everyone was friendly and pools were clean and well kept. I do think it is a bit silly that for the price you're paying, you have to bring your own bedding. If the price was a little cheaper I wouldn't have minded, but it was a bummer to have to pay all that money for accommodation and not even be fully accommodated unless you want to shell out even more to rent bedding and towels. I understand this probably stems from wanting to save water on laundry since they are powered by hydro, but again, if that's the case the prices should be a bit cheaper. The walls in The Grove were pretty thin as well, but most people were considerate and quiet. I do feel lucky that there weren't any infants staying in The Grove while we were there, though, like some other reviews have mentioned. Food was okay, but like others have said a little bland. Highly reccomend bringing some snacks for your room if you get snacky between meal times like me. All this to say I still give 4 stars as it was truly a blissful and relaxing experience. I'd love to be back at some point.

Actually seemed just a little too laid-back ...the food was good, but it was if there were ingredients that had to be used up, so there were dishes that were a weird combination. After their devastating fires, you would think they would build the new huts a little bit closer to the pools or lodge. After going to the pools there wasn't much else to do, which I guess is the whole point. It would have been good to have walking/hiking trails or other activities.

Things I wish I knew. We went during winter near Christmas time. If you get a heated room it can actually get quite warm. The radiators were great for drying our towels, etc. So you don't need to pack for the dead of winter. The pools are located closest to the lodge and the platform tents. The yurts are nice and spacious but the farthest from the pools (about a 10-15 min walk depending on your pace). In the daylight we found some trails that made the walk quicker. There are heated bathrooms only about a 1- 2 min walk away by the grove. Wear comfortable shoes. I packed some cheap flip flops for between pools but I needed more comfortable walking shoes to get back and forth to our yurt. The gift shop is great and tries to carry some of the common necessities that people forget. The gift shop employees were always kind and helpful. If something isn't in the well-being book you can ask them about it. The lodge has some larger social areas where you can hang out. The lodge is a shoe free environment so be prepared. As well as two radiators where you could dry towels. There is also a list of what pools are being cleaned that day. It may be blocked if the wooden door next to the cafe is open. There is a well-being book which explains what different classes entail. Boards that tell you what the activities are and what time they take place. If you are coming in the ?️ rainy weather pack a coat and a water proof bag to transport your towel or clothes to and from your accomodations. If you happen to own a towel robe it is great for this place. If you are a practiced soaker a shamie was great for drying off. An insulated water bottle for hydration is great though they do not have ice. They do have water fountains and bottle filling stations. You can bring a book or pick one up at the lodge library. Though the library ones can't go to the pools. When we were there the warmest pool was the silent pool then the middle pool with the lower pool being the coolest in that area above the lodge. They are the more natural formed pools. That is also the direction of the sauna. The spiral pools go in a circle with letters marking them. The hottest was toward the individual tubs while the coolest was toward the wooded trail. They are below the lodge. The individual tubs were also on the cooler side. Each area also has a cold plunge option. The food is fine most days but if you are a picky eater definitely pack some favorite snacks. They were a lifesaver for me. They do have a shared fridge where you can store a few things labeled. There is a more limited selection than I expected from a buffet. Though there was always a gluten and dairy free option. They also serve a lot of casseroles which for my family is not a favorite. They do have salad available at every meal. With a couple different dressing options. But if you are picky about salad dressing you may want to bring some of your own. There was a line for lunch which is the busiest meal of the day. By the end of the two night stay we were ready to be done. We left just after lunch having packed the car since we had to be out of the yurt by 1. We had a lovely morning ? soak and I did some fun art at the creative cafe. Definitely take advantage of some of the activities while you are here. I had my best mindfulness activity experience on my first morning there. They are a great way to break up the routine. I spoke to so many people on my trip who love Breitenbush and come every year. They love being able to disconnect and relax. There is no service though they do have an emergency line and there are emergency phones. Even though our family did not love it and decided one trip was enough, we did really enjoy our time in the pools and overall had a great visit. I heard someone who wanted to extend their stay because their experience had been so impactful. I would definitely recommend checking it out if it is in your budget and seems like you would enjoy it. You may find something you really need.

Breitenbush Hot Springs is truly a magical place. The food was delicious with so much variety. The staff were all very friendly and helpful. Some parts are brand new and others are almost 100 years old. I recommend taking the tour. The wood sauna with a cold plunge was my favorite. I can’t wait to visit again.

My husband and I had an absolutely incredible experience at Breitenbush Hot Springs. This is our favorite place to go to. We soaked in hot springs when it was snowing and it was magical. We went walking in the nature. The food is most delicious there. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Everything about our experience was wonderful. When visiting spaces like this with three young children in tow, it can sometimes feel challenging or awkward, or even unwelcoming. At check-in with Christina (Kristina?) she helped to make sure we knew where the playground was, how lunch would work, and which areas were best if our boys needed to use some energy. The pools were amazing and the labyrinth & nearby river provided a much needed area to run around, throw rocks, and eat snacks. Speaking of food- I had a bit of worry about our lunch. With our kids being 6, 3, and 1, mealtime can be a struggle. We don’t follow a vegetarian diet, and we have one gluten free child. Well, Bretienbush cooks for the WIN- all three kids LOVED the Hungarian Mushroom Soup and all of the asked for seconds. (There may have been a slight amount of fighting over a bowl). The blackberry limeade was outstanding, and again, all three asked for more. I don’t know if we’ve ever had such a successful meal that wasn’t pizza! While I look forward to returning and enjoying more of the peace & serenity of the space without small children, our experience today hit the mark AND gave our children a small test of patience and quiet (or at least more quiet than usual) enjoyment. Thank you Breitenbush! We will be back!

Great experience, a remote place in the middle of the woods, next to a crystal clear river, we went to the hot springs at night, we saw a starry sky, and a couple of shooting stars, which was epic. Overall, a beautiful place away from light pollution. We were there with our young kids, we took a cold plunge in the river and enjoyed delicious food. We did see a few burned trees but there was still plenty of green and wildlife, we saw deers, they were comfortable with people, amazing experience. The staff was friendly and helpful.

I feel like everyone should go on a solo trip here! It was nice to reconnect to myself and spend so much time in nature. And honestly just be and relax without a schedule or rules. I even took a nap! The newer room I stayed in was amazing and I felt very safe. The areas are so well thought out. There’s even a drinking fountain in the sauna! It is such a special place and the staff are wonderful. The food was so good and I got so excited to see what the menu was going to be. Lots of attention and love goes into the food and I like that everyone gathers in the lodge at the same time for meals. I did yoga in the Buddha house looking out at the river and it was lovely. Highly recommend a moment there! Anyways, can’t wait to go back! It truly is magical and so peaceful. You will definitely feel relaxed and rejuvenated after some time here.

Review: the perfect getaway with relaxing/camping/outdoor atmosphere, kind attentive staff, and surprisingly flavorful AND sustainable meals! Note to Staff; my friend and I really struggled getting around due to lack of signage! Getting down to the lodge we got a bit turned around and lost. Trying to find the different tubs, we had to wander a lot til we finally understood the layout, even with the map. It would be so much more accessible if there were more (and clear!) signs on the trail pointing to different tub directions. We got halfway across the bridge when we thankfully remembered it was off-limits and then wondered why there was so signs to tell us! We even looked around and didn’t see any. We went up to a building that looked like a yoga studio or something but when we opened the door they were in session and politely shushing us out. To which we laughed off, because there was no signs to tell us what the building was nor that they were in-session! Regardless, it was a wonderful experience and everything from the staff, the food, to the variety of quality tubs were amazing! I definitely want to come back. Hopefully when it’s less confusing!

I’ve always enjoyed my time here. My first time was at an astrology conference with my last partner and thereafter while I was in the area for work. After reading many of the other reviews, I can understand where people might be coming from who have given a lower rating. They are used to hotels when doing a trip such as this. For example, I personally like the lack of lighting at night and if you lack the patience to let your eyes adjust - bring a flashlight. I’ve gone both nude and with shorts and have never felt any judgment personally, but that’s just my experience. I will say this though, about 3 days max as all you need. I tend to get my fill by the second day and going any more than that and I’d probably feel burned out. The pools although restorative definitely have a saturation point much like a sauna, steam etc. One recommendation: it would be cool if you had a community bonfire a few times a week at night as a type of social gathering for those that want to partake. I tread gently using the word fire, but you get the idea: something where the point is to socialize with the other guests. Even if it was just an hour or two, now you know who to ask to play a board game with while waiting for dinner etc.

This was my first time going, it was enjoyable. I loved the whole vibe and food was surprisingly good.(I'm not someone who eats much veggies to begin with) so I really enjoyed it. The only suggestions I have is they should have time limits in the bath tubs. There were people in there for 2 to 3 hrs and I kept seeing so many people walk away disappointed that they didn't get a chance. If therea any way of adding more tubs it would be great especially when it's a busy holiday weekend. I'll go back but hopefully next time it's less crowded that's the only thing I didn't like I expected to not be so crowded

A "once on a lifetime trip" in one the most incredible places I've traveled! I decided to stay at Breitenbush a couple months ago on the last snowy day of the season. The cabin was quaint, pristine, beautiful hardwood interior. The showers/restrooms in a separate building nearby. The lodge is a beautiful, rustic style with windows all around the dining areas. The meals were tasty and healthful, three times a day with your stay. The hot springs and natural sauna were amazing. Absolutely will return!

Hadn’t stayed overnight for 5 years. Lots of changes since the fire 2019. The new cabins in The Grove are warm and very comfortable. The view will improve once vegetation returns. The spiral tubs, sauna, meadow pools and private bath tubs are all wonderful. Food was great. Staff was helpful and friendly. The evening programs were a plus: yoga, historic talk and intuitive tarot. I leave feeling rested and revived. Thank you, Brietenbush, for surviving!

Overall, I really like Breitenbush: the scenery, the hot springs, the delicious food, kind people. Been coming for the past 15 years. HOWEVER, I just returned from a two-day stay and I’m sorry to say I had a relatively poor experience. I woke up this morning at 3am with a pounding headache and it was so strong that I wasn’t able to get back to sleep. I eventually found my way to the lodge hoping I could access some painkillers that are typically on sale in the gift shop. I sat in the empty lodge for about five hours, waiting for staff to arrive. I knew the gift shop was closed for inventory (they told me upon arrival), but I hoped they’d sell me $1 worth of pill packs to alleviate the jackhammer in my head. I hardly ever have headaches, and while it’s true that it’s not their responsibility to have these on hand, I was pretty surprised by what happened next. When I finally found a staff member around 9am and asked if I could please buy some painkillers (I told her about the severity of the pain and that I’d been camped out waiting for them to arrive). They told me that I wouldn’t be able to until the gift shop opened THREE and a half hours later. I was standing feet from the only relief within a 40-min radius and they wouldn’t let me have it. I can’t imagine doing that to someone (I run vacation rental and it’s unfathomable to me). I understand folks are just doing their jobs and I certainly didn’t want to mess up inventory, but seriously? I was in severe pain and had barely slept. When she said no, I felt like crying. Consequently, I ended up leaving the retreat center to find Advil asap. I left a full five hours (and one delicious meal that I’d already paid for) before I intended to. Given that I paid $284 for two nights (out in the cold on a pretty uncomfortable foam mat, mind you), I would have hoped the staff could have been a bit more accommodating. Word to the wise: bring any extra thing you think you might need because it’s pretty remote and you may not be able to buy it in the lodge. Also, the foam mattresses are pretty uncomfortable/lacking in support so bring your own inflatable if you can.

Love it here. My partner and I have gone twice this year and it’s a great way for us to relax from our busy lives and decompress. We have stayed in the new cabin which was simple but cozy and it stayed toasty with the geothermal heat. On our second visit we camped at one of the bring your own tent sites which was next to a beautiful meadow that was great for star gazing at night. Service was great, food was yummy and healthy. My partner particularly liked the vegan ranch and I’ve been trying to recreate it at home for him to no avail. Their facilities were very clean and I noticed them cleaning the pools frequently. We will be back again soon!

I went here with my friend and got a brown recluse spider bite on my toe. There was never any mention of NOT walking around in flip-flops or without socks and shoes. I feel that the staff there should know of the dangers of wildlife and warn guests about possible dangers. The guests were the most unfriendly, somber jerks I've ever met in my life. I've been to many Hot Springs, resorts, and this one was definitely the worst. The nature was beautiful, the Hot Springs were beautiful, the river was gorgeous. The vibe was terrible, and any mention of what to look out for was absolutely not mentioned. The staff were minimally helpful and acted like you were "putting them out" if you asked any questions. Do not go here unless you want to experience these things. I am now dealing with a long recovery of infection due to negligence of the resort letting me know what to watch out for. Absolute crap!

The hot springs pools are great. What isn't great is having to cart all of our luggage through mud and snow, downhill, then uphill, to get to our room. They don't allow vehicles past the parking lot, which I would appreciate a lot more if 1) their paths were better groomed for pedestrians, 2) they didn't have their work/golf carts driving all over and splashing us as they went past us through the puddles, and 3) if they would at least provide a soft cover for the carts so that rain, snow and falling debris didn't fall on our bedding as we walked through. The food was good, and even though they say they are all vegetarian, they provided shredded cheddar cheese and eggs. If they're going to do that, perhaps throwing some fish or chicken into the menu would help out their non-vegetarian customers.

Incredible place! Must have a good car and tires as there are many potholes on the way to thus remote location. The drive is beautiful and worth it though. The hotsprings were in a pristine location, we encountered deer and spent all afternoon there with the day pass. Its very relaxing and appreciated there was no cell service. Everyone was very respectful of privacy, space and noise. Simply magical!

Breitenbush is the loveliest, most beautiful, serene and healing place. My partner and I have been able to enjoy these very clean, gorgeously natural hot springs a few times and it is a treat every visit. Staying over night is really special if you can afford it (starlit dips and 3 meals included? Yes please!) but there is basic, average priced lake camping in the surrounding areas if that is more of your style. We’ve done it both ways and I would say are equally enjoyable. Don’t hesitate to book your reservation, it is definitely money well spent. Pros- - Limited reservations assure there is plenty of room to enjoy 3 natural meadow pools, 4 small tub-style pools, 1 cold plunge tub and geothermal sauna. There are also solo/couple bathtubs scattered throughout the property that were a LOVELY addition after the fires - Very clean facilities - If you love being in nature, this is your ultimate natural deep dive - A wonderful experience regardless of season Cons- - You need to book in advance because reservations go quickly. Best to look at least a couple weeks ahead, up to a month during peak popularity Considerations: This place is not only a “sacred” healing center for visitors but is also a community where people live to care for this space. It’s what makes this place so incredible. There are a lot of “rules” that some people may not be used to and could consider a “con” but really should respected as customary for this destination— “When in Rome…” Optional clothing in water spaces, taking off your shoes and continued mask wearing in the lodge, vegetarian food, quiet times, asking for consent to share the sauna, no photos in shared spaces etc. Be sure to read the notices before going so you’re not surprised and everyone can still enjoy the space together :)