America’s thermal springs offer a unique blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and history—making them a perfect destination for travelers seeking both adventure and rejuvenation. From the steamy wilderness pools of the Rockies to the historic bathhouses of the South, these geothermal wonders are scattered across the country, each with its own story and charm.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most stunning hot springs in the U.S., when to visit them, and how to enjoy them on any budget.
* Pro Tip: Test the water temperature first *
⚠️ Important Notes
- Soaking-safe range: 98–110°F
- Scalding danger begins around: 120°F
- Many springs are cooled before being piped into soaking pools at resorts or bathhouses.
Best State To Visit Hot Springs If On A Budget
Idaho
Idaho is the cheapest state to soak in hot springs thanks to its abundance of free, natural pools on public land. Many are easily accessible by car or short hikes, like Kirkham, Goldbug, Boat Box, and Jerry Johnson.
💸 Runner-Up States (Still Affordable):
- New Mexico – Free springs like Spence and Montezuma, plus budget lodging
- Oregon – Umpqua, Cougar, and Bagby are mostly donation-based or under $10
- Nevada – Lots of wild, free desert springs, but some require 4WD or long drives
< Click here > for a full list of geographically recognized thermal springs and their details from the NCEI Geothermal Database
💧America’s Thermal Spring Complete List Including Details and Coordinates
Alaska – pg. 6-8
Arizona – pg. 8-10
Arkansas – pg. 10
California – pg. 10-18
Colorado – pg. 18-19
Florida – pg.19
Georgia – pg. 19
Hawaii – pg. 19
Idaho – pg. 19-25
Massachusetts – pg. 25
Montana – pg.25-27
Nevada – pg. 27-35
New Mexico – pg. 35-36
New York – pg. 36
North Carolina – pg. 36
Oregon – pg. 37-40
South Dakota – pg. 40
Texas – pg. 40
Utah – pg. 40-43
Virginia – pg. 43
Washington – pg. 43-44
West Virginia – 44
Wyoming – 44-48
^^Note: The file can be found under ‘documentation’ & is 66 pages long. For a quick reference to each state, click the 💧 button above ^^
Related Article: The Best Hot Springs In The Southern States
Read More
* Pro Tip: bring the right gear *
Free hot springs are often in remote areas—pack everything you need in a small bag and be mindful of nature and fellow soakers.
– Photo by AllTrails
🌿 Free-Access Thermal Springs in the U.S.
1. Goldbug (Elk Bend) Hot Springs – Idaho *pictured above*
A moderately challenging hike rewards visitors with breathtaking, mountainside pools overlooking Salmon-Challis National Forest. Primitive, scenic, and completely free.
Best Time to visit Idaho if on a budget: May–June & Sept–Oct
2. Umpqua Hot Springs – Oregon
Tucked into the Umpqua National Forest, these terraced, cliffside pools offer stunning views and a peaceful soak—though be aware they’re clothing-optional and popular.
Best Time to visit Oregon if on a budget: Sept–NOV
3. Jemez Springs (Spence Hot Springs) – New Mexico
Located in the Santa Fe National Forest, Spence Hot Springs are accessible via a short trail and offer a tranquil experience surrounded by red cliffs and pine trees.
Best Time to visit New Mexico if on a budget: Sept–NOV & MAR-MAY
4. Deep Creek Hot Springs – California
Found in the San Bernardino National Forest, this spot requires a hike and river crossing but offers natural rock pools alongside a scenic creek. (Note: managed access may apply on weekends or via private land trails.)
Best Time to visit California if on a budget: Feb-Apr & Oct-dec
5. Hot Springs Creek (also called “Boiling River”) – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
While the Boiling River was historically free to access, it’s currently closed indefinitely—but worth keeping on your radar if it reopens, as it was one of the only legal soaking spots in the park.
Best Time to visit Wyoming if on a budget: Sept-Oct & APR-June
6. Trail Creek Hot Springs – Idaho
Easily accessible and surrounded by forest, this spot offers rock-lined pools with a nearby cold stream for temperature control.
Best Time to visit Idaho if on a budget: May–June & Sept–Oct
7. Jordan Hot Springs – New Mexico
A true backcountry experience in the Gila Wilderness, this spring requires a scenic hike but offers a remote, serene soak at no cost.
Best Time to visit New Mexico if on a budget: Sept–NOV & MAR-MAY
* Pro Tip: Leave no trace *
Some springs are located on private lands or protected areas
- Umpqua Hot Springs (OR) – Frequently closed for restoration or due to overuse/damage.
- Hot Creek Geological Site (CA) – You can view the spring, but entering the water is strictly prohibited
- Hot Springs on the Navajo Nation (AZ/NM) – Sacred springs are not open to non-tribal visitors.
- Private Ranch Hot Springs (TX, CO, MT) – Sacred springs are not open to non-tribal visitors.
- Hot Springs at Fly Geyser – Sacred springs are not open to non-tribal visitors.
Click on each of the 📍to explore each state further
📍 Alaska
Visiting hot springs in Alaska offers a truly unique experience, combining natural warmth with dramatic northern scenery. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and remote wilderness, springs like Chena Hot Springs near Fairbanks are accessible year-round and even offer the chance to soak under the northern lights in winter.
❇️Tips for visiting hot springs in Alaska
- Choose the right season: Winter (Oct-Mar) best time to see the northern lights, however, roads might be icy and closed; Summer (Jun-Aug) offers easier access, longer days
- Expect remote conditions: long dries, small planes, and hikes
- GPS/phone signal may be limited
Best For First Timers: Chena Hot Springs
Best For Cruise Stopovers: Baranof Warm Springs
Best For Road Trips: Pilgrim hot Springs
Best For Soaking With Locals: Tenakee Springs
📍 Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park—often called “The American Spa is located towards central Arkansas and offers a blend of natural relaxation and historic charm. Here, thermal water flows from the Ouachita Mountains and has been used for healing and bathing for centuries. Visitors can stroll Bathhouse Row, soak in traditional spas like the Buckstaff or Quapaw.
While soaking in the wild springs isn’t allowed in Hot Springs National Park, the experience combines nature, history, and wellness in a unique and affordable way.
Free Thermal Water Fountains📍Various locations around Bathhouse Row
- Soaking Type: Not for soaking, but perfect for filling water bottles or jugs
- Why It’s Great: 100% free, clean, and naturally heated by geothermal activity
Arkansas Thermal Spring Soaking Locations
Quapaw Baths & Spa
📍Bathhouse Row
- Soaking Type: Modern spa with large public thermal pools
- Why It’s Great: Beautiful setting in a historic bathhouse; multiple pools at varying temps
- Cost: ~$25 for a day pass (additional services like massages available)
Hotel Hale (formerly Hale Bathhouse)
📍Bathhouse Row
- Soaking Type: A boutique hotel with rooms featuring in-room tubs fed directly by thermal springs
- Why It’s Great: Perfect for those seeking private, historic-style soaks without visiting a public bathhouse.
Buckstaff Bathhouse
📍Hot Springs National Park
- Soaking Type: Traditional spa experience, individual bathtubs
- Why It’s Great: Operated since 1912, offers an authentic early 20th-century bathhouse experience
- Cost: ~$40–$90 depending on the service (classic thermal bath packages)
Palace Hotel & Bath House
📍Eureka Springs
- Soaking Type: Historic lodging with thermal baths.
- Why It’s Great: Operated since 1901, features a century-old bathhouse spa
- Cost: ~$30-$200 depending on the service (classic thermal bath packages)
Arkansas Summary Comparison:
| Location | Type | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Buckstaff | Traditional private tubs | Classic, no-chemical mineral bathing |
| Quapaw Baths | Communal pools & spa | Modern amenities with pool variety |
| Hotel Hale | Private in-room tub soak | Historic charm + privacy |
| Palace Hotel (Eureka) | Historic thermal lodging | Good alternative outside Hot Springs city |
| Caddo Gap Springs | Natural river-spring pool | Rustic, free, and warm (~95°F) |
📍 California
Visiting hot springs in California offers a perfect blend of natural relaxation and scenic adventure. From the alpine views of Wild Willy’s near Mammoth Lakes to the rustic pools of Travertine and Buckeye in the Eastern Sierra, the state is home to a variety of free, soakable springs nestled in dramatic landscapes.
Best Free Hot Springs in California
*Top Springs in Cali
| Hot Spring | Location | Access | Features | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| *Wild Willy’s | Mammoth Lakes (Eastern Sierra) | Short drive + boardwalk walk | Heart-shaped pool, panoramic views, sunrise/sunset magic | Most photogenic and accessible free spring |
| *Travertine | Bridgeport | Short dirt road + 2-min walk | Travertine rock, mountain backdrop, several warm pools | Perfect for roadside soaking and quick visits |
| Buckeye | Near Bridgeport | Dirt road + short hike | River setting, hot waterfall, upper and lower pools | Feels hidden and adventurous |
| *Deep Creek | San Bernardino Mountains | Hike required (2.5–3 miles) | Multiple pools along river, varying temps | Popular with hikers; scenic but rustic |
| Sespe | Los Padres National Forest | Long hike (16–18 miles RT) | Remote canyon pools, wildlife, wilderness experience | Best for backpacking and solitude |
📍 Colorado
Visiting hot springs in Colorado is a rejuvenating way to experience the state’s stunning mountain landscapes and natural geothermal wonders. Many are nestled in beautiful alpine settings, perfect for relaxing after hiking or skiing. With a variety of temperatures and settings, Colorado’s hot springs provide a refreshing escape year-round, especially during the cooler months.
Top Hot Springs in Colorado
1. Glenwood Springs Hot Springs
Why Visit:
- One of the largest hot springs pools in the world, with crystal-clear, mineral-rich waters
- Family-friendly with extensive facilities including water slides, spa treatments, and pools of various temperatures
- Located in a charming town with lots of dining and lodging options
2. Strawberry Park Hot Springs (Steamboat Springs)
Why Visit:
- Natural, beautifully rustic pools set in a serene mountain forest
- Offers both communal and private soaking tubs lit by candlelight in the evenings for a magical experience
- Surrounded by hiking trails and stunning alpine scenery
3. Ouray Hot Springs
Why Visit:
- Stunning views of the San Juan Mountains while soaking in a large, family-friendly pool complex
- Variety of pools with different temperatures and a relaxed, small-town vibe
- Known as the “Switzerland of America,” it makes it a great stop for outdoor enthusiasts
4. Mount Princeton Hot Springs
Why Visit:
- Scenic location in the Arkansas River Valley with a mix of natural pools and resort amenities
- Offers both hot and cold plunges, as well as spa services
- Ideal for combining relaxation with adventure activities like hiking and rafting nearby
5. Pagosa Springs
Why Visit:
- Home to some of the world’s deepest geothermal hot springs
- Numerous public and private soaking options, including river-fed pools with spectacular mountain views
- A historic town known for wellness and relaxation
📍 Hawaii
Hawaiʻi may be known for its volcanoes and geothermal activity, but natural hot springs are rare due to the island geology and rainfall. However, there are a few warm or geothermally heated soaking spots, primarily on the Big Island, where volcanic activity provides natural heat.
Current Soaking Options In Hawai’i
Pohoiki Warm Springs (Isaac Hale Beach Park)
A series of lava-heated tide pools created after the 2018 Kīlauea eruption.
Tip: Pools are public but natural—no amenities, so bring towels and water shoes.
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
Warm, spring-fed water pockets along the shore; combine with sea turtle viewing
Kehena Beach *clothing-optional*
Ocean cove with occasional geothermal seeps; known for warm water temps
⚠️ Important Notes:
- Many former springs (like Ahalanui) were destroyed or closed due to volcanic eruptions
- These are natural and unimproved—expect rocky edges and unpredictable temps
- Always check local conditions before visiting due to volcanic changes or closures
🧭 Suggested One-Day Itinerary:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Explore Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch in Volcano Village or Pāhoa |
| 1:30 PM | Scenic drive down Chain of Craters Road |
| 3:30 PM | Head to Pohoiki Warm Springs for a soak |
| 6:30 PM | Return via Hilo or stay in Puna |
📍 Idaho
Budget lodging in small towns like Stanley, Cascade, and Salmon makes overnight stays affordable, and best of all—most springs require no permits or reservations.
🌲 Top Free or Low-Cost Soakable Hot Springs in Idaho:
- Goldbug Hot Springs – Iconic views, 2-mile hike, completely free
- Kirkham Hot Springs – Multiple pools by the river, $5 day-use fee
- Boat Box Hot Springs – Tiny, riverside tub right off the road
- Trail Creek & Jerry Johnson – Forested pools, short hike, no fee
🚗 5-Day Idaho Hot Springs Road Trip (Budget Edition)
Route: Boise ➝ Lowman ➝ Stanley ➝ Salmon ➝ McCall ➝ Boise
Best Season: Late spring to early fall (May–October)
🗺️ Hot Springs on This Route:
| Spring Name | Fee | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kirkham | $5 | Riverside pools | Easy access, popular |
| Bonneville | Free | Forest trail | Small hike, waterfall nearby |
| Goldbug | Free | Terraced pools | 2-mile hike, epic views |
| Boat Box | Free | Tub on river | Small, photogenic, 1–2 people max |
| Trail Creek | Free | Rock pools | Short trail, hot water mixing with cold |
| Sunbeam | Free | Roadside | Right next to river, simple soak |
📍Massassachutes
Massachusetts isn’t home to true geothermal hot springs like those in the western U.S., but it does offer a few mineral spring destinations with a rich history of wellness and healing. Towns like Northampton, Stockbridge, and Lenox once thrived as spa retreats in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
✅ Summary:
There are no natural hot spring pools for soaking in Massachusetts, but you can visit historic spring towns and modern spa resorts that continue the wellness traditions through hot tubs, saunas, and spring-inspired therapies.
1. Stockbridge / Lenox – The Berkshires
Spring History: Once home to 19th-century mineral spring resorts
Canyon Ranch Lenox – Luxury wellness resort with thermal-inspired spa services
Miraval Berkshires – Spa retreat focused on healing and relaxation
Why Visit: Mountain scenery, relaxation, and a legacy of spring-based wellness
2. Northampton – Mineral Springs Legacy
Spring History: Once known for its mineral springs and health tourism in the 1800s
East Heaven Hot Tubs – private hot soaking tubs and saunas
Why Visit: Artsy college town with relaxing spa experiences and historic charm
3. Williamstown & North Adams (Western MA)
Spring History: Former mineral spring hotels dotted the area.
Modern Experience: No public springs remain, but spas in the region offer spring-inspired therapies
Why Visit: Combine cultural attractions (like MASS MoCA) with spa visits in the Berkshires
📍 Montana
Visiting hot springs in Montana is a perfect way to relax while surrounded by the state’s rugged natural beauty. From rustic, remote pools to full-service resorts, Montana offers a variety of geothermal soaking experiences nestled in mountain valleys and forested landscapes.
Budget Tip: Buy a 7-day park pass for $35 per car (covers everyone in the vehicle)
🗓️ 3-Day Budget Yellowstone Hot Springs Itinerary
Day 1: North Entrance + Mammoth Area
Start in Gardiner, MT (most affordable access town)
- Soak (view-only): Boiling River
- Must-see geothermal area: Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
- Walk the Mammoth boardwalk (free + scenic)
Mammoth Campground (open year-round, $20–$25/night)
Day 2: Norris + Midway Geyser Basin
Drive south through the park toward the geyser basins
- Norris Geyser Basin – Home to Steamboat Geyser (world’s tallest active geyser)
- Midway Geyser Basin – View Grand Prismatic Spring (incredible colors!)
- Walk up to the Overlook Trail for a free top-down view
Madison Campground ($20–$30/night)
Day 3: Old Faithful + Nearby Springs
Old Faithful Geyser – erupts every ~90 minutes
- Upper Geyser Basin boardwalk loop (tons of smaller springs and bubbling pools)
- Morning Glory Pool – short hike, vibrant colors
Bonus Stop (outside park): Bozeman Hot Springs or Norris Hot Springs (fee-based soak ~$10–$20) on the way back toward Bozeman
***Yellowstone National Park has a strict drone policy: the launching, landing, or operation of any unmanned aircraft (drones) within park boundaries is completely prohibited, no exceptions***
📍Nevada
Visiting hot springs in Nevada offers a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, with hundreds of natural geothermal pools scattered across its vast desert and mountain landscapes. From remote gems like Goldstrike Hot Springs near Las Vegas to peaceful pools like Spencer Hot Springs in central Nevada, many of these springs are free to access and surrounded by stunning views.
♨️ Top Hot Springs in Nevada
| Hot Spring | Location | Type | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goldstrike Hot Springs | Near Hoover Dam (Las Vegas area) | Natural, riverside pools | Scenic canyon hike, multiple warm pools, views of the Colorado River |
| Spencer Hot Springs | Near Austin (Central NV) | Natural rock/cowboy tubs | Remote desert views, stargazing, free, good for camping nearby |
| Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs | Western NV (Dyer area) | Manmade pool fed by spring | Soaking tub + epic views of the White Mountains, free camping |
| Soldier Meadows Hot Springs | Northern NV (near Black Rock Desert) | Natural pools | Remote and pristine, great for solitude and nature immersion |
| Steamboat Hot Springs | Reno | Developed spa | Therapeutic mineral water in a spa setting, affordable sessions |
| Ruby Valley Hot Springs | Eastern NV (near Elko) | Natural pools | Clear, warm blue pools in a marshy basin with mountain views |
| 12-Mile (Bishop Creek) Hot Springs | Near Wells, NV | Natural + tubs | Quiet riverside soaking with multiple pools, free access |
Key Notes:
- Most springs are free and natural
- Some require 4WD or dirt-road access
- Many allow dispersed camping nearby
- Best visited spring or fall (to avoid extreme summer/winter temps)
📍New Mexico
Visiting hot springs in New Mexico is a soothing way to explore the state’s rich mix of desert landscapes, mountains, and ancient healing traditions. Many springs are surrounded by scenic hiking trails, historical sites, and Native American cultural influences, making them perfect for both relaxation and exploration. With plenty of budget-friendly and natural options, hot springs here are a warm welcome year-round.
Top Free Hot Springs in New Mexico
| Hot Spring | Location | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|---|
| Spence Hot Springs | Jemez Mountains (near Los Alamos) | Easy hike (~0.6 miles), natural hillside pools with forest and mountain views |
| San Antonio Hot Springs | Jemez Mountains (Forest Road 376) | Terraced pools on a mountainside; hotter temps, great views, ~0.5–1 mile hike |
| Jordan Hot Springs | Gila Wilderness (near Silver City) | Backcountry spring; requires 7-mile round-trip hike, peaceful wilderness setting |
| Black Rock Hot Springs | Near Taos (along the Rio Grande) | Easy access, riverside soaking with scenic canyon views |
| Manby (Stagecoach) Hot Springs | Near Arroyo Hondo (Taos area) | Along the Rio Grande; historic ruins and natural soaking pools (check access status)* |
Access Notes:
Manby Hot Springs: Located on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, but the main access road has been closed to public traffic. You may need to hike in via longer alternative trails. Check local rules before visiting.
2-Day Free Hot Springs Road Trip (Northern New Mexico)
Start/End: Albuquerque or Santa Fe
Best Time: Spring or fall (mild temps, accessible roads)
Day 1: Jemez Mountains Soak & Explore
Route: Santa Fe or ABQ → Jemez Springs
- Spence Hot Springs
- Short scenic hike (~0.6 mi) to natural hillside pools
- Jemez Falls Overlook(optional)
- Quick stop for photos or a short hike
- San Antonio Hot Springs(if time & vehicle allows)
- Camp for free in Santa Fe National Forest (near FR 376)
Day 2: Taos Area Springs + Scenic Drive
Route: Jemez → Taos
- Black Rock Hot Springs
- Easy access via dirt road + short trail, riverside soak
- Manby Hot Springs (check access status)
- Historic site with natural pools near ruins of old bathhouse
Optional: Explore Taos Plaza or visit the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
📍 New York
While New York isn’t known for natural hot springs in the traditional geothermal sense, it does have several mineral spring destinations rooted in wellness history. Public fountains, spa treatments, and bathhouses are found throughout the region. For a soothing retreat with a blend of history, charm, and wellness, New York’s mineral springs—especially in the Saratoga Spa State Park area—offer a unique and tranquil experience.
2-Day Budget Itinerary: Saratoga Springs Mineral Springs Experience
Best Time to Visit: Spring–early fall
Day 1: Explore Saratoga Spa State Park
- Saratoga Spa State Park
- Walk the Mineral Springs Trail
- Sample from springs
- Victoria Pool ($8–$10 entry in summer)
Camp at nearby Moreau Lake State Park (~$20–$25/night)
Day 2: Soak, Spa & Scenic Drive
- Roosevelt Baths & Spa – 20-minute bath soak (~$40–$50)
- Canfield Casino museum
- Drive scenic Route 9 to Ballston Spa
- Visit Old Iron Spring
- Moreau Lake for swimming, kayaking, or a short hike
🛁 Perfect Trip Flow
- Arrive mid-morning: settle in and start with a Standard Mineral Bath.
- Explore local trails or float down the French Broad River.
- In the late afternoon, indulge in a Deluxe or Premium bath—ideal in cooler weather.
- Spend the night camping or in a cabin, making early-morning relaxation effortless.
📍North Carolina
North Carolina is home to one famous natural hot spring destination: Hot Springs, NC, a small mountain town tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, about 45 minutes from Asheville.
Hot Springs Resort & Spa
Best Time to Visit
- Spring or Fall (Mar–May, Sept–Nov) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and optimal soaking conditions.
- Winter can be charming, with daytime temps in the 40s–50s°F and soaking in tubs warmed to about 102–103°F feels especially cozy
Average Water Temperature
- Water flows at a comfortable 100–103°F—warm enough to ease muscles, but not too hot for extended soaks
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Private tubs | Towels not provided—bring your own. In colder months, wear a hat or robe when exiting the tub. |
| Bring essentials | Towels not provided—bring your own. In colder months, wear a hat or robe when exiting the tub . |
| Book ahead | Evening or weekend baths fill quickly—especially Premium tubs with fire features—so reserve early. |
📍 Oregon
Top Oregon Hot Springs & Why to Visit
| Hot Spring | Location | Access | Temperature | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Umpqua Hot Springs | Umpqua National Forest (near Roseburg) | 0.3 mi steep hike | ~110–112 °F | Jade-green terraced pools above the river; clothing‑optional, scenic views |
| Terwilliger (Cougar) | Willamette National Forest (near McKenzie Bridge) | 0.25 mi easy hike | ~85–112 °F | Six cascading pools, rustic forest experience, popular & family‑friendly |
| Bagby Hot Springs | Mount Hood National Forest | 1.5 mi moderate hike | Cedar tubs at spring temp | Unique cedar bathhouses built by the CCC; forest ambiance |
| Paulina Lake Hot Springs | Deschutes National Forest (near La Pine) | 1–1.2 mi lakeside trail | 90–115 °F | Primitive lakeside pools on volcanic terrain; fewer crowds |
| Bigelow (Deer Creek) | McKenzie River (near Eugene) | Short walk | ~102–104 °F | Intimate cave-like pool beside river; free & clothing‑optional |
| Alvord Hot Springs | Southeastern Oregon (Alvord Desert) | Short walk from the campground | 100–110 °F | Rustic pools overlooking the desert and Steens Mountain; 24‑hr access |
| Crystal Crane Hot Springs | Burns, Eastern Oregon | Drive-up resort access | ~101 °F | Family-friendly resort with private tubs and RV/cabin camping |
| Breitenbush Hot Springs | Willamette National Forest | Drive-access retreat | Pool/sauna fed by geothermal water | Wellness-focused retreat with workshops, saunas, and a forest setting |
📍 South Dakota
Nestled near Wind Cave National Park, the town of Hot Springs, SD features natural warm spring water that flows year-round at a consistent temperature of around 87°F.
Top Places to Soak:
Evans Plunge Mineral Springs
- Family-friendly indoor pool using natural spring water; includes slides & therapy areas
Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa
- Elegant spa built on historic grounds; features multiple soaking pools, yoga, and massage
1-Day Itinerary: Hot Springs, South Dakota
☀️ Morning
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast in Downtown Hot Springs
- Grab coffee and a hearty breakfast at a local café like Daily Bread or Mornin’ Sunshine Coffee House
- 9:00 AM – Soak at Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa
- Relax in warm mineral pools (87–102°F) surrounded by sandstone ruins and gardens
- Optional: book a yoga class or 30-minute massage (advance booking recommended)
🕛 Midday
- 12:00 PM – Lunch at a local bistro
- Try Buffalo Dreamer for seasonal dishes or Big Time Pizza for casual eats
- 1:00 PM – Visit Evans Plunge Mineral Springs (Optional)
- Family-friendly indoor pool fed by natural mineral water
- Great if traveling with kids or want a second soak with slides and lap swim
🌄 Afternoon
- 3:00 PM – Explore Wind Cave National Park(15–20 min drive)
- Take a short nature walk or book a guided cave tour (check availability)
- Spot bison and prairie dogs along the Prairie Vista Trail
📍 Texas
Texas has a few notable natural hot springs, mostly located in remote desert or wilderness areas, offering a unique blend of soaking and scenery.
Best Time To visit Texas Hot Springs: fall through early spring (Oct–Apr) to avoid extreme heat
A Few Top-Rated Hot Springs in Texas
| Hot Spring | Location | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Boquillas Hot Springs | Big Bend National Park (Rio Grande) | Historic 105°F spring along the river; short hike, stunning desert views |
| Chinati Hot Springs | Near Presidio, West Texas | Rustic retreat with private soaking tubs, peaceful desert setting |
| Capote Springs | Near Marfa/Fort Davis | Less visited; part of private land, but tied to the historic Cíbolo Creek Ranch |
| Langford Hot Springs (same as Boquillas) | Big Bend NP | Historic ruins of Langford Bathhouse; easy access via Hot Springs Historic Trail |
Best Spring to Visit: Boquillas (Langford) Hot Springs
Fee: Free with Big Bend National Park admission ($30/vehicle for 7 days)
Temp: ~105°F
Access: ~0.5-mile walk along the Rio Grande
Scenery: Desert cliffs, river views, historic bathhouse ruins
📍 Utah
Utah is home to a variety of hot springs, ranging from primitive backcountry pools to developed spas, all set against the state’s stunning red rock canyons, forests, and mountain backdrops.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall
Top Hot Springs in Utah
| Hot Spring | Location | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Mystic Hot Springs | Monroe, Central Utah | Funky, artsy soaking tubs with desert views and live music; great at sunset |
| Fifth Water (Diamond Fork) Hot Springs | Spanish Fork Canyon (near Provo) | 2.5-mile hike to turquoise pools and a waterfall; popular and scenic |
| Homestead Crater | Midway, near Park City | Unique geothermal spring inside a limestone dome; swim, snorkel, or dive |
| Inlet Park Hot Springs | Saratoga Springs, Utah Lake area | Natural spring on public land; best visited in cooler months |
| Meadow Hot Springs | Near Fillmore (off I-15) | Large, clear pools on private land (publicly accessible); deep, great visibility |
📍 Washington
Washington State is home to a beautiful variety of hot springs, from remote wilderness pools deep in the forest to developed resorts perfect for relaxing after a hike or mountain drive. Many are tucked into the Cascade Mountains or Olympic Peninsula, offering incredible backdrops like rivers, waterfalls, or snow-capped peaks.
Top Hot Springs in Washington
| Hot Spring | Location | Type | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sol Duc Hot Springs | Olympic National Park | Developed resort | Scenic soaking pools surrounded by forest; near hiking & waterfalls |
| Olympic Hot Springs (currently closed) | Olympic National Park (Elwha Valley) | Primitive/natural | Remote backcountry springs (access road is closed—check NPS updates) |
| Scenic Hot Springs | Near Stevens Pass (Private land) | Natural & rustic | Requires reservation; forested mountain setting, clothing-optional |
| Goldmyer Hot Springs | North Bend (Cascade foothills) | Natural; reservation only | Remote, pristine spring with limited access (20 people/day max) |
| Carson Hot Springs | Columbia River Gorge | Developed resort | Affordable spa with mineral baths & vintage charm |
📍 Wyoming
Wyoming offers a range of hot springs—from free public pools to deluxe resort options—across diverse landscapes like riverside towns, desert valleys, mountains, and national forests.
🧭 Visitor Tips
- Saratoga Hobo: Bring water shoes for hot spots (~117 °F) and enjoy river wading in cooler areas.
- Thermopolis: Use the free bathhouse for a relaxing soak and walk across the travertine terraces
- Granite Springs: Open seasonally; winter access requires snow vehicle or skis. Pool may drop to ~90°F in summer
- Astoria: Book ahead; a serene soak in a natural setting with wildlife and conservation focus.
Top Hot Springs in Wyoming & What Makes Them Special
| Hot Spring | Location | Access & Fee | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs | Saratoga (North Platte River) | Free, open 24/7, public baths | Multiple pools (100°F–120°F), changing rooms, river wading, always available AFAR Media+7Top Hot Springs+7Only In Your State+7pennypinchingglobetrotter.com+7islands.com+7Travel Wyoming+7Tiff’s Journey |
| Hot Springs State Park | Thermopolis (Big Horn River) | Free state bathhouse; park entry required | 104°F therapeutic bathhouse, terraces with 135°F spring flow into river, ADA trails |
| Saratoga Hot Springs Resort | Saratoga | Fee for resort guests or day passes | T-pool resort, spa, healing waters up to 112°F; lodging & dining on-site |
| Granite Hot Springs | Bridger-Teton NF (near Jackson Hole) | $8 adult / $5 child; car in summer, ski/snow travel in winter | 104°F pool in forest, concrete pool built by CCC, access by trail or snow vehicle |
| Astoria Hot Springs | South of Jackson (Astoria Park) | Reservation required, nonprofit park | Six pools in wetlands, wildlife habitat, 100–104°F, peaceful conservation funds |
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