Combining camping with hot springs is one of the best outdoor experiences in the American West. Imagine hiking to a remote backcountry spring, soaking under the stars, and falling asleep to the sound of flowing water. No day-trippers, no crowds, no rush.
This guide covers everything you need to plan a hot springs camping trip: where to go, what to bring, how to camp responsibly, and the best soak-and-camp destinations in the US.
Types of Hot Springs Camping
Established Campgrounds Near Springs
The easiest option. Many developed hot springs have campgrounds within walking distance. You get the convenience of camp amenities (fire rings, pit toilets, sometimes water) with easy access to soaking.
Idaho and Oregon have the most campgrounds adjacent to hot springs, with several Forest Service campgrounds offering walk-to-soak access. Some are so close you can hear the springs from your tent.
Dispersed Camping Near Springs
On BLM and National Forest land, you can camp for free in undeveloped areas (dispersed camping). Many primitive hot springs have established dispersed campsites nearby, created by years of visitors.
Rules for dispersed camping:
- Camp at least 200 feet from water sources
- Use existing fire rings if present
- Check for local fire restrictions
- Pack out all trash
- Maximum stay is typically 14 days
Backcountry Camping at Remote Springs
The ultimate experience. Some hot springs require backpacking into wilderness areas where you camp right near the springs. This offers the most solitude but requires the most preparation.
Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, and California all have backcountry hot springs that require hiking in — ranging from moderate day hikes to multi-day wilderness treks. Some require permits, so check with the local ranger district before heading out.
Essential Gear
Everything you would bring on a regular camping trip, plus:
- Quick-dry towel — You will use it more than you think
- Sandals or water shoes — For walking on slippery, rocky surfaces around springs
- Headlamp — Essential for nighttime soaking
- Extra water — Soaking dehydrates you significantly. Bring more than you think you need.
- Dry bag — Keep your phone and electronics safe near water
- Warm layers — The temperature difference between hot water and cold air can be intense, especially at elevation
What NOT to Bring
- Glass containers — Broken glass in and around hot springs is a persistent problem. Use cans or plastic.
- Soap or shampoo — Do not wash in hot springs. The minerals and ecosystem are fragile.
- Bluetooth speakers — Keep the peace
Safety Considerations
Water Temperature
Hot springs can be much hotter than they appear. Always test with your hand before entering. Source temperatures can exceed 200F. Only soak in pools that have cooled to a safe temperature (typically 100-110F).
Hypothermia Risk
This sounds counterintuitive, but hypothermia is a real risk at hot springs camps. Getting out of 105F water into 30F air with wet skin cools your body rapidly. Have warm, dry clothes ready.
Wildlife
Camping near water attracts wildlife. Store food in bear canisters or hang bags where required. Be aware of snakes near desert springs.
Remote Location Risks
Many hot springs are far from cell service, roads, and hospitals. Bring a first aid kit, tell someone your itinerary, and consider a personal locator beacon for backcountry trips.
Leave No Trace at Hot Springs
Hot springs are fragile resources. Many have been closed permanently because of overuse and abuse. Follow these principles:
- Pack out ALL trash — Including cigarette butts, bottle caps, and food scraps
- Do not build new fire rings — Use existing ones or bring a camp stove
- Do not alter pools — Moving rocks, damming water, and digging changes the ecosystem
- Camp on durable surfaces — Existing campsites, rock, gravel. Not on vegetation.
- Dispose of waste properly — Catholes 200+ feet from water, pack out TP
Best Soak-and-Camp Destinations
Idaho: Salmon River Corridor
The Salmon River corridor has the highest concentration of free hot springs and camping in the country. Multiple USFS campgrounds serve as base camps for day-tripping to nearby springs.
Oregon: Cascade Range
The central Oregon Cascades offer several hot springs with nearby Forest Service campgrounds, all set in dense old-growth forest.
Nevada: BLM Desert Springs
Dispersed camp on BLM land near remote desert springs. Open desert camping with no crowds and spectacular night skies.
Colorado: San Juan Mountains
The San Juan region offers access to both developed and primitive springs with nearby camping options at various elevations.
Idaho is the best starting point for a soak-and-camp trip — see the Idaho hot springs guide for a complete list of springs with camping nearby. Before you go, brush up on hot springs safety — remote camping amplifies most hot spring risks.
Start Planning Your Trip
Plan your soak-and-camp trip with Soakr — filter for springs with nearby camping, read community tips, and use offline maps in areas without service. Download Soakr free for iOS.