The United States sits on some of the most geothermally active land in the world. From Yellowstone’s supervolcano to the Cascade Range’s volcanic chain, underground heat creates thousands of natural hot springs scattered across the western states and beyond.
Whether you prefer a remote backcountry soak under the stars or a full-service resort with massage therapists on call, this guide covers the 25 best hot springs in America.
What Makes a Great Hot Spring?
Before we dive in, here is what we considered when ranking these springs:
- Water quality — Temperature, mineral content, clarity
- Setting — Scenery, privacy, natural beauty
- Accessibility — How easy or difficult to reach
- Facilities — What amenities are available (or intentionally absent)
- Community feedback — Real reviews from soakers who have been there
The West: Where Most Hot Springs Live
The western US has the highest concentration of hot springs by far. Idaho, California, Nevada, Oregon, Wyoming, and Colorado together account for over 80% of soakable hot springs in the country.
1. Goldbug Hot Springs, Idaho
Tucked into the Salmon River Mountains, Goldbug requires a 2-mile hike through a canyon that gets increasingly beautiful with every step. Multiple pools cascade down the mountainside at different temperatures. It is free, primitive, and arguably the most photogenic hot spring in America.
Temperature: 100-110F | Type: Primitive | Fee: Free
2. Strawberry Park Hot Springs, Colorado
One of Colorado’s most beloved hot springs, set in a valley near Steamboat Springs. Natural rock pools with temperatures ranging from 101-104F. Clothing optional after dark. A perfect blend of natural and developed.
Temperature: 101-104F | Type: Developed | Fee: $15-20
3. Travertine Hot Springs, California
Free roadside hot springs near Bridgeport with stunning views of the Eastern Sierra. Multiple user-built pools at different temperatures. Easy access makes this a favorite for anyone driving Highway 395.
Temperature: 98-107F | Type: Primitive | Fee: Free
4. Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon
Perched on a cliff above the North Umpqua River with views through old-growth forest. A short hike leads to a wooden shelter protecting the main pool. One of Oregon’s most iconic soaks.
Temperature: 106-110F | Type: Primitive | Fee: Forest pass required
5. Boiling River, Wyoming
Yellowstone’s only legal soaking spot, where a hot spring meets the Gardner River creating a perfect temperature mix. The river does the temperature regulation for you. A short walk from the parking area.
Temperature: Variable (river mixing) | Type: Primitive | Fee: Park entrance fee
6. Spencer Hot Springs, Nevada
Free roadside springs in the middle of the Nevada desert with panoramic mountain views in every direction. Old cattle troughs repurposed as soaking tubs alongside natural pools. The quintessential Nevada hot spring experience.
Temperature: 100-115F | Type: Primitive | Fee: Free
7. Conundrum Hot Springs, Colorado
One of the highest hot springs in North America at 11,200 feet elevation. Requires an 8.5-mile hike through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The reward is soaking in a natural pool with alpine peaks on all sides.
Temperature: 100-104F | Type: Primitive | Fee: Free (permit required)
8. Bagby Hot Springs, Oregon
Historic hand-hewn cedar log tubs fed by a natural hot spring in the Mount Hood National Forest. Requires a 1.5-mile forest trail hike. The tubs have been maintained by volunteers since the 1930s.
Temperature: 136F source, mixed | Type: Developed | Fee: $5
9. Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
A full resort operation 60 miles outside Fairbanks. Famous for northern lights viewing from the outdoor rock lake. Year-round access despite Alaska’s extreme seasons. The ice museum alone is worth the trip.
Temperature: 106F | Type: Resort | Fee: Day use $15
10. Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, Idaho
A series of pools along Warm Springs Creek in the Clearwater National Forest. Short trail, multiple pools at different temperatures, beautiful forest setting. One of Idaho’s most accessible backcountry springs.
Temperature: 104-113F | Type: Primitive | Fee: Free
The Midwest and East: Hidden Gems
11. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
The birthplace of American thermal bathing. Historic Bathhouse Row features eight bathhouse buildings from the early 1900s. The Buckstaff Bathhouse has been in continuous operation since 1912. This is hot springs history.
Temperature: 143F source | Type: Commercial | Fee: Varies by bathhouse
12. Mystic Hot Springs, Utah
A quirky, artistic hot spring resort in the town of Monroe. Old cast iron bathtubs sit on a hillside fed by natural hot springs. Live music events, campsites in vintage buses, and a genuinely unique vibe.
Temperature: 100-110F | Type: Commercial | Fee: $15-25
Planning Your Hot Spring Trip
Safety First
Hot springs can be dangerous. Water temperatures at the source can exceed 200F. Always test before entering. Be aware of harmful bacteria, unstable ground, and remote conditions. Tell someone your plans.
What to Bring
- Water and food — Especially for backcountry springs
- Towel and sandals — Rocks can be sharp and slippery
- Headlamp — Many of the best soaks happen after dark
- Trash bag — Pack out everything
- Phone in a waterproof case — For photos and emergency use
Etiquette
- Pack out all trash, including organic waste
- Keep voices down, especially at night
- Ask before taking photos of other soakers
- Shower before entering if facilities exist
- Respect clothing-optional policies
For a deeper dive, see our hot springs etiquette guide and hot springs safety guide. Idaho leads this list with multiple entries — see the full Idaho hot springs guide to explore all 340+ springs in the state.
Find All of These in Soakr
Every spring on this list (and over 1,700 more) is in the Soakr app. Get GPS directions, read community reviews, check current conditions, and track your visits with the Hot Springs Passport. Download Soakr free for iOS.