If you’re looking for a restful getaway, hot springs camping might be just what you need.
Long before the American colonies formed, Indigenous peoples used thermal pools for their curative powers. Those same baths are still in use, and you can camp right next to many of them.
So, if a vacation of rejuvenating mineral soaks and unlimited access to Mother Nature sounds good, we’ve got you covered. Join us to learn the best hot springs that allow you to camp onsite.
Let’s go!
Why Hot Springs Camping Is Great
People have enjoyed hot springs for thousands of years. Many ancient civilizations believed these warm pools had healing powers.
As it turns out, they were right! Hot springs are scientifically proven to ease many ailments, such as dry skin, aches and pains, and circulation problems. Their health benefits are just one of many reasons people still visit them today.
However, you can’t find a geothermal pool just anywhere. That’s why some folks plan trips to destinations with these therapeutic waters. Camping at hot springs is a great way to experience them.
Booking a site with its own warm mineral bath makes it easy to take multiple soaks over a few days. You’ll also figure out when the pools are the busiest, which will help you schedule sessions around those times. And since it’s typical to find multiple springs in one area, staying nearby means you can try them all.
By now, you’re probably ready to hit the road to relaxation. Check out these five great locations for hot springs camping and start planning your trip.
#1 Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa, Colorado
Joyful Journey is the best spot in Colorado for hot springs camping. This spa offers massage and skin treatments in the San Luis Valley. There’s also a dry sauna onsite.
But the main attractions are its three thermal pools, fed by springs deep underground. At its source, the water is upwards of 120 degrees. But at ground level, it stays in a comfortable range closer to 100 degrees.
Thanks to low sulfur content, Joyful Journey promises its baths are odor-free. The water is also rich in naturally occurring lithium that helps promote relaxation.
The spa offers RV spaces, tent spots, and tipis and yurts for rent. For an elegant experience, you can reserve a hotel-style room or casita. It’s the perfect place to find your zen.
Don’t get kicked out! The 7 Shocking Sins of Soaking in Hot Springs
#2 Sam’s Family Spa and RV Resort, California
Hot springs camping isn’t always easy with kids. Some spas and resorts have strict rules regarding noise, and many aren’t family-friendly.
Sam’s Family Spa and RV Resort is just the opposite. Located northeast of Palm Springs, they offer four soaking pools open to people and pets of all ages. And the best part is that kids aged four and under get in free.
The resort has several accommodation options. Choose from RV spaces, tiny home rentals, or hotel rooms in the main building. RV sites feature full hookups and other amenities, including cable and WiFi, showers and restrooms, laundry facilities, hot tubs and pools, playgrounds, a dog run, and more.
Sam’s guarantees their thermal pools are chlorine-free and replenished daily. You can relax knowing this campsite is kid-friendly, clean, and safe for your whole family.
#3 Challis Hot Springs, Idaho
Challis Hot Springs offers camping and soaking in the Land of the Yankee Fork State Park. The park is situated near the Salmon River and Idaho’s tallest mountain and is a scenic place to rejuvenate.
Before the 19th century, Challis was home to Indigenous people who lived, hunted, and fished on the land. A fur trapper was the first American to stumble upon the area in 1822. This part of Idaho has fewer than 1,300 residents, and its remote location provides plenty of peace and quiet.
Challis has two naturally occurring thermal pools. Each one maintains a temperature between 98 and 105 degrees thanks to the cooling effect of supplemental well water. The mineral baths are clear, clean, and free of sulfurous odors.
They welcome tent and RV campers alike. Rig sites include 30 and 50-Amp hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables. This is a wonderful spot if you’re looking to unwind in nature.
No campground on site here, but it has other bonuses! Finally, A National Park That Offers Spa Days & Beer on Tap
#4 Riverbend Hot Springs, New Mexico
You can’t beat Riverbend in Truth or Consequences for hot springs camping in beautiful New Mexico. This spa hotel is just two hours from Albuquerque and El Paso, Texas. True to its name, Riverbend sits on the bank of the peaceful Rio Grande.
Different Indigenous nations once used the springs that are now part of the spa. In fact, the area was considered neutral territory. Members of conflicting communities visited in peace for healing baths without weapons.
Riverbend offers a whopping 15 pools, ranging from public springs by the river to private ones with fences and curtains. Each maintains a temperature range between 98 and 108 degrees. You can soak in the water, nap in a hammock, or relax on a patio and enjoy the view.
This destination has options for hotel rooms and RV camping. Their sites are across the street from the spa and feature 30 and 50-Amp electric, sewer, water hookups, and WiFi. Whether you rough it or pamper yourself, you’ll enjoy unlimited access to the springs.
#5 Mystic Hot Springs, Utah
Mystic Hot Springs offers a super unique camping experience in the Utah desert. The resort is about three hours south of Salt Lake City, surrounded by scenic plateaus and rock formations.
Indigenous Ute, Shoshone, and Piute nations have used these thermal pools for centuries. Eventually, settlers discovered them and built wooden tubs to collect the water. Visitors came from neighboring towns to dance, mingle, and enjoy the springs.
Today, Mystic keeps that same positive energy flowing through their two large artesian pools and six spring-fed tubs. The water is rich in calcium and other minerals but free from sulfur. You can relax in a warm bath and enjoy the sunrise or stargaze in the evening.
The accommodations at Mystic Hot Springs are quirky and fun. Stay in a restored pioneer cabin or choose from one of eight unique schoolies. You can also reserve RV campsites with electric and sewer hookups between April and October. However, note that your stay at Mystic doesn’t include soaking privileges. You’ll need to book those separately.
While you’re in the area: Hot Springs and Pools of the Southwest
Hang Out and Heal in the Hot Springs
When life gets busy, it can be challenging to find time to unwind. But a vacation that combines adventure and relaxation could be just the ticket.
Hot springs camping is a fun way to enjoy the outdoors while resting your body and mind. Plan a visit to your favorite destination, or hit the road on a tour of multiple artesian pools. Your future self will thank you!
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