If you love exploring national parks and relaxing in nature, few experiences can compare to soaking in a natural hot spring surrounded by scenic beauty. The United States is home to many national parks with hot springs, where travelers can enjoy a perfect blend of adventure, rejuvenation, and breathtaking landscapes.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful soak after a long hike or planning a wellness-focused getaway, these parks offer an ideal escape. In this guide, we’ll explore the best national parks with hot springs, what makes them special, and how to make the most of your visit.
Why Visit National Parks with Hot Springs?
Hot springs are more than just warm water sources; they’re natural geological wonders created by geothermal activity beneath the Earth’s surface. Many cultures around the world have long celebrated their healing properties, claiming benefits for circulation, skin health, and stress relief.
In the U.S., several national parks hot springs destinations combine relaxation with outdoor adventure — giving travelers a chance to hike, explore, and unwind all in one place.
1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
No list of national parks with hot springs would be complete without Yellowstone National Park — home to some of the world’s most famous geothermal features. As the first national park in the United States, Yellowstone sits atop a massive supervolcano that fuels geysers, mud pots, and colorful thermal pools.
Highlights
- Mammoth Hot Springs: These limestone terraces are one of Yellowstone’s most photographed geothermal formations.
- Boiling River: One of the few areas in the park where visitors can safely soak in naturally heated water mixed with the cold flow of the Gardner River.
- Scenic Hiking Trails: Combine a relaxing soak with a hike through beautiful landscapes filled with wildlife and geothermal steam vents.
Pro Tip: Swimming is only allowed in designated areas like the Boiling River (check current park regulations as access sometimes changes due to safety or environmental conditions).
2. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Located in central Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park is the only U.S. national park primarily dedicated to thermal springs. Nicknamed “America’s Spa,” it has been a wellness retreat since the 1800s.
Highlights
- Historic Bathhouse Row: A collection of elegant early 20th-century bathhouses offering modern spa treatments using natural thermal water.
- Hiking Trails: Over 20 miles of scenic trails through the Ouachita Mountains.
- Hot Springs Mountain Tower: Offers panoramic views of the park and the city.
This destination is perfect for travelers who want to combine relaxation with history and architecture.
3. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the most geothermal-rich areas in California, featuring boiling mud pots, fumaroles, and steaming lakes.
Highlights
- Bumpass Hell: A three-mile round-trip trail leads to a fascinating geothermal basin filled with hot springs and steam vents.
- Sulphur Works: A roadside geothermal area where visitors can safely view bubbling pools and sulfur vents.
- Manzanita Lake: A peaceful spot for camping, kayaking, and photography.
While soaking is not allowed in the park’s geothermal areas, Lassen offers a rare opportunity to observe geothermal energy up close within a protected natural setting.
4. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Just south of Yellowstone lies Grand Teton National Park, another stunning park that offers access to geothermal areas nearby.
Highlights
- Granite Hot Springs: Located just outside the park, this natural spring offers a developed soaking pool surrounded by pine forests and mountain views.
- Winter Access: In winter, visitors can snowmobile or cross-country ski to the springs for a unique cold-weather adventure.
- Nearby Jackson Hole: Offers luxurious lodging, dining, and spa experiences for a perfect balance of adventure and comfort.
Grand Teton’s combination of mountain scenery and natural hot springs makes it a top choice for travelers seeking both wilderness and relaxation.
5. Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada
While Death Valley is famous for being one of the hottest places on Earth, it also hides remote hot springs that provide an unexpected contrast to the desert environment.
Highlights
- Saline Valley Warm Springs: Remote and peaceful, these natural springs attract travelers looking for a rustic, off-the-grid experience.
- Unique Desert Landscapes: Surround yourself with mountains, salt flats, and open skies.
Visiting Death Valley’s hot springs requires careful planning — the roads are rough, and facilities are limited — but the reward is solitude and breathtaking scenery.
6. Olympic National Park, Washington
On the Pacific Northwest coast, Olympic National Park offers an incredible mix of ecosystems, from temperate rainforests to alpine peaks.
Highlights
- Sol Duc Hot Springs: One of the park’s most popular attractions, Sol Duc features multiple mineral pools with varying temperatures and a nearby resort for overnight stays.
- Hoh Rain Forest: Explore lush trails filled with moss-draped trees before soaking in warm mineral waters.
- Wildlife Spotting: Deer, elk, and bald eagles are common throughout the park.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort makes this destination family-friendly, offering comfort while remaining surrounded by wilderness.
7. Glenwood Springs (Near Rocky Mountain National Park), Colorado
While not located directly inside Rocky Mountain National Park, Glenwood Springs lies nearby and is a top destination for anyone exploring Colorado’s natural wonders.
Highlights
- Glenwood Hot Springs Pool: One of the largest mineral pools in the world, with mountain views and therapeutic water.
- Iron Mountain Hot Springs: A more modern spa experience featuring multiple small soaking pools overlooking the Colorado River.
- Adventure Opportunities: Go rafting, hiking, or skiing nearby, then unwind in the thermal pools.
This makes a perfect stop for anyone exploring the Rocky Mountain region and looking for both adventure and relaxation.
8. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs (Near Santa Fe, New Mexico)
One of the oldest natural health resorts in North America, Ojo Caliente combines ancient healing traditions with modern wellness amenities.
Highlights
- Variety of Springs: Iron, soda, arsenic, and lithia springs — each believed to offer unique health benefits.
- Serene Desert Setting: The surrounding landscape is peaceful and scenic, ideal for mindfulness and relaxation.
- Nearby Adventures: Explore New Mexico’s hiking trails, historic towns, and vibrant cultural sites.
This is one of the best destinations for travelers who value wellness tourism and cultural experiences.
Tips for Visiting National Parks with Hot Springs
To make the most of your trip, keep these travel tips in mind:
- Check Regulations: Some hot springs are too hot or ecologically sensitive for soaking. Always follow posted park rules.
- Avoid Sunscreen & Lotions: Before soaking, rinse off products that can harm delicate ecosystems.
- Go Early or Off-Season: Popular hot spring areas can get crowded. Early mornings or weekdays offer more solitude.
- Respect Nature: Leave no trace — pack out all trash and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Bring Proper Gear: Lightweight towels, water shoes, and reusable bottles are must-haves for a comfortable trip.
Best Time to Visit Hot Springs in National Parks
The ideal time to visit depends on your destination:
- Spring and Fall: Offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Winter: Can be magical, especially when surrounded by snow (such as Sol Duc or Granite Hot Springs).
- Summer: Best for higher-altitude destinations like Yellowstone and Lassen.
FAQs About National Parks with Hot Springs
1. Can you swim in hot springs inside national parks?
In most parks, soaking is allowed only in designated areas for safety and preservation reasons. Always check current park rules.
2. Are hot springs safe?
Yes, if used responsibly. However, some pools can be extremely hot or acidic — avoid any areas not specifically approved for visitors.
3. What should I bring to a hot spring trip?
Bring water, a towel, sandals, swimwear, and a change of clothes. Avoid bringing glass containers or anything that could pollute the environment.
4. Which national park has the most hot springs?
Yellowstone National Park has the largest concentration of geothermal features, including thousands of hot springs and geysers.
5. Are there family-friendly hot springs?
Yes, parks like Hot Springs National Park and Olympic National Park offer safe, developed facilities suitable for families.
Final Thoughts
Exploring national parks with hot springs is an incredible way to combine outdoor adventure with relaxation. From the steaming terraces of Yellowstone to the tranquil pools of Sol Duc, each destination offers a unique natural experience that connects you to the Earth’s geothermal power.
Whether you’re planning a wellness retreat, a photography trip, or an adventurous hike, these parks provide the perfect balance of nature, comfort, and discovery. So pack your travel gear, respect the land, and get ready to unwind in nature’s most soothing settings.
