The beautiful area that is home to the Bar M Ranch has a rich history beginning long before the arrival of the first settlers.  Indians considered the hot springs located on the ranch to be the home of powerful spirits and used them as a site for sacred rites.

In 1864, a three story hand-hewn log inn was built as a stage coach stop for the California Stage Company and is still in use today as the center of all the ranch activities, the "Ranch House".

From 1892 - 1908, the springs were owned by Dr. Bingham who believed the water had medicinal value.  He added a building to provide more accommodations that is still used today, known as the "Bunkhouse".

From 1908 - 1937 the property changed ownership three times, each proud owner re-naming the springs and resort after themselves.  It was the place to go for summer picnics, dances, and swimming.  Previous guests include President Calvin Coolidge and Secretary of State Herbert Hoover, who signed their names in our 1926 guest registry that can be seen on display in the gift shop.

In 1938 Howard and Bonnie Baker, ranchers from Idaho, bought the resort.  They named it the Bar M Ranch, and began operating as a dude ranch in the early 1940's.  For the next 64 years, three generations of the Baker family welcomed visitors to the ranch.  The Bar M was purchased by Kent and Shannon Madison of Echo, Oregon in 2002 and are continuing the dude ranching business.