The Best Natural Hot Springs in the U.S.

Last updated on December 28th, 2023 at 09:50 pm

A vacation with a twist is all the rage these days. No one wants to fully sacrifice relaxation on vacation, but the opportunity to experience something new and different is hard to pass up.   

Hot springs could be the answer. They’re luxuriously relaxing while being uniquely adventurous. Here’s your list of the best natural hot springs all around the United States.

The Best Natural Hot Springs to Enjoy in the U.S.

Hot Spring National Park, photo: National Park Service

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

A natural place to start our list is at the Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas. These geothermal waters are surrounded by city life and chock full of history. Entrance to the park itself is free. You can tour the historic Fordyce Bathhouse and other attractions for free as well. Purchase a ticket to bathe in a traditional bath in Buckstaff Bathhouse or get the full spa experience Quapaw Baths and Spa. You can find more information about activities for the whole family and get a free Hot Springs area travel guide here.

Strawberry Park Hot Springs, photo: strawberryhotsprings.com

Strawberry Park Hot Springs, Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Strawberry Park is the perfect spot to soak in natural mineral water after a day on the slopes. For $15 (at the time of this post), spend the day soaking in the 104 degree pools, get a massage in a private hut or a watsu therapy in a private pool. Beware, clothing is optional after dark! Find out more about Strawberry Park Hot Springs here.

Dunton Hot Springs, photo: www.duntondestinations.com

Dunton Hot Springs, Dunton, Colorado

Dunton Hot Springs is a restored mining town nestled in the Rocky Mountains just under 75 miles from Telluride. It’s one of the most isolated resorts in the world; a romantic getaway like none other. Colorado’s only geyser is nearby, and there are six different hot spring options both inside and outside. This all-inclusive resort offers glamping at its best, and the pricing reflects that, setting you back anywhere from a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars a night. There are some beautiful photos and a live look at the resort here.

Sierra Hot Springs, photo: sierrahotsprings.org/

Sierra Hot Springs, Sierraville, California

Sierra Hot Springs is definitely the place to go for relaxation. You can also attend workshops and various retreats wholly focused on rejuvenating your body and mind. Enjoy access to all of the facilities at this non-profit center just for the day starting at $20, or stay awhile at the very affordable Lodge and Globe Hotel.

Chena Hot Springs, photo: chenahotsprings.com

Chena Hot Springs, Fairbanks, Alaska

Right in the heart of Alaska is a hot springs resort with an ice museum and fantastic views of the Northern Lights. Chena is open all year with indoor and outdoor pools. A few feet of snow and negative temperatures have nothing on these springs. Spend the day for only $15 or lodge at the resort and soak for free.

The More Adventurous Hot Springs

Boiling River, photo: National Park Service

The Boiling River, Yellowstone National Park

A large hot spring flows into the cool waters of Gardner River in Yellowstone National Park, creating just the right temperature for comfortable bathing. It’ll take a short walk from a parking area inside the Park, but it also offers fantastic views of Yellowstone. You’ll know you’ve arrived by the large steam clouds. Yellowstone costs $25 at the gate which is good for a full week. Find the information you’ll need for your visit to the Boiling River here.

Fifth Water Hot Springs, photo: Betsy Thompson/Alltrails

Fifth Water Hot Springs, Diamond Fork Canyon, Utah

You’ll find a good amount of adventure getting to Fifth Water Hot Spring. It’s 4.5 mile hike out and back (a couple extra miles during the winter months) with a moderate elevation gain. The hike can be a challenge, especially in the winter. But the reward of hot pools is totally worth it. Not to mention the stunning scenery that includes a couple of waterfalls. Oh, and the free price tag.

Homestead Crater Hot Springs, photo: Homestead Resort

Homestead Crater, Midway, Utah

Also in Utah is a hot spring that is unlike any other; it’s inside a crater. Homestead Crater is a natural phenomenon caused by melting snow from the overhead mountains and the hot underground water. The Crater has its own skylight, if you will, but remains at a comfortable 90-96 degrees inside at all times. It’s the only place you can go scuba diving in warm water in all of the continental US. Pricing varies based on what you want to do (swim/soak, snorkel, scuba dive) but ranges from $13 to $27.

Travertine Hot Springs, photo: monocounty.org

Travertine Hot Springs, Bridgeport, California

Soak in one of half a dozen hot pools in Bridgeport, California, including Travertine Hot Springs. It’s totally free and has breathtaking views. The hike to arrive is short and simple, but the drive is on a dirt road and the amenities include a glorified outhouse. The pools though? Heavenly.

Kirkham Hot Springs, photo: Visit Idaho

Kirkham Hot Springs, Lowman, Idaho

Last on our list of the best natural hot springs you’ll want to visit is Kirkham Hot Springs. Try out the underdeveloped soaking pools, and enjoy a soak under steaming waterfalls. A small wooden staircase leads you to the silky waters which sit alongside the Payette River. Parking is inexpensive, and the pools are free!

For years, people have flocked to these natural jacuzzis to relax and enjoy their purported healing benefits. Why not make one of these hot springs part of your next trip?

Also read:
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10 Unique & Memorable Souvenir Ideas for Your Next Vacation

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