The 10 Best Hot Springs in Colorado

With ninety-three geothermal springs throughout the state, Colorado is one of the top hot springs destinations in the US. Set among vast landscapes of towering mountain ranges and lush forests, Colorado’s natural hot springs offer something for every type of traveler. Relax your muscles while enjoying the convenience of a well-developed facility, cold plunge pools and the feeling of being immersed in nature’s primitive mineral pool in the backcountry.  From the world’s largest hot spring pool to secluded springs nestled deep in the mountains, we’ve rounded up the 10 best hot springs in Colorado for your next road trip! 

Colorado Hot Springs Map

This laid-back site is perfect for anyone looking for a developed facility while still enjoying a rustic, nature-focused environment. It’s also worth noting that these hot springs become clothing optional after dark, so minors are not allowed in the evenings.

Camping Near Strawberry Park Hot Springs

Strawberry Park Hot Springs Campground: The property conveniently has an on-site campground, making a camper van stay seamless! The campsite operates from May through October, and amenities include a propane grill, picnic tables, and restrooms. Advanced reservations are mandatory and can be made via the facility’s website.

Penny Hot Springs 

Situated on the Crystal River just outside of Carbondale, Penny Hot Springs is one of Colorado’s most beloved primitive springs. You’ll feel instantly rejuvenated as you soak in the hot mineral waters of the river while taking in panoramic views of rugged canyons and towering, snow-capped mountains. The springs are located just off Highway 133, making them very easy to access. To enjoy a peaceful soak with minimal crowds, try to avoid visiting during holidays and weekends.

Camping near Penny Hot Springs

Avalanche Campground: Located just 15 minutes from the Crystal River, this small campsite is the perfect base for accessing Penny Hot Springs. All sites are first come, first served at this year-round campground, and amenities include picnic tables, restrooms, and a dump station.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Iron Mountain Hot Springs is an extremely popular site in Glenwood Springs. The picturesque facility is set along the edge of the Colorado River and is perfect for anyone seeking a luxurious day of rest and relaxation. Visit the property’s inviting, lodge-style bath house before hopping between 16 natural geothermal pools. As you soak in the blissful setting, take in the glorious mountain views that surround the stunning property.

Rainbow Hot Springs

While you could spend a day at the posh Pagosa Springs Resort, we recommend strapping on your hiking boots and making the journey to the nearby Rainbow Hot Springs instead. Reached by a 4.5-mile trek, this idyllic backcountry hot spring is well worth the effort. Strawberry Park is open 365 days a year and offers an unforgettable experience. Once you arrive at the secluded springs, you’ll find two separate mineral pools, with the lower one being the larger and cooler of the two. In addition to geothermal pools, there are also several breathtaking waterfalls to explore along the trail!

Camping near Dunton Hot Springs

West Dolores Campground: Set in the San Juan National Forest, this scenic campground operates from May through September, and advanced reservations can be made up to 6 months before your visit. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, potable water, and a few sites containing electric hookups.

Radium Hot Springs

A quick hike from Warm Springs Road will lead you straight to the primitive Radium Hot Springs, situated along the banks of the Colorado River. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also reach the springs by kayaking or rafting! Since this therapeutic pool only reaches about 80 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s a great option if you’re visiting Colorado in the summer. The secluded springs feature one main pool, and the area is known for its abundance of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled.

Camping near Radium Hot Springs

Radium Recreation Campground: This nearby site is the perfect base for exploring the springs. Amenities include picnic tables, flush toilets, and fire rings. The campground runs from May through October, and advanced reservations must be made on their website.

Conundrum Hot Springs

Colorado’s beloved Conundrum Hot Springs is famous for its picturesque setting deep in the Colorado Rockies. However, to bask in these majestic pools, which sit at an elevation of 11,200 feet, you’ll have to put in some serious effort. The springs are only accessible by a strenuous 8.5-mile hike.  Despite their secluded location, these hot springs are extremely popular among locals, so don’t expect to have the tranquil oasis all to yourself. 

Camping near Conundrum Hot Springs

To camp by Conundrum Hot Springs, you’ll need to leave your camper van aside for the night and bring your tent along for the adventure. There are twenty official campsites by the springs, and permits must be obtained in advance.

Valley View Hot Springs

Immerse yourself in Colorado’s natural beauty at Valley View Hot Springs, an idyllic site in the scenic town of Moffat. While these springs are primitive, there is a small entry fee to pay, which includes access to a sauna and bathhouse facility. Because these springs have a daily capacity limit, booking reservations in advance is highly encouraged.  The rejuvenating property includes several steaming ponds, a replenishing swimming pool, and a small hot tub heated by hydroelectric energy.

Camping near Valley View Hot Springs

Valley View Campground: This hot spring facility contains 23 convenient vehicle camping spots, most of which feature breathtaking views of the valley. The campground operates all year and includes picnic tables, restrooms, and a dining area. While reservations are not required, they are highly encouraged, as space is limited.

Glenwood Hot Springs

Often lauded as one of Colorado’s best geothermal facilities, the luxurious Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is celebrated for containing the world’s largest hot spring pool. Nestled between the rugged landscapes of Aspen and Vail, panoramic mountain views accompany this massive hot spring and features several therapeutic pools. The property also boasts an impressive fitness center and walkable access to downtown Glenwood Springs.

Camping near Glenwood Hot Springs

Rifle Gap State Park: This stunning park near Glenwood Springs features five different campgrounds, all offering gorgeous reservoir views, fire pits, restrooms, picnic tables, and a dump station. These campsites are available year-round, and online reservations are mandatory.

Ouray Hot Springs

Tucked away in the San Juan Mountains, Ouray Hot Springs is the ultimate spot for a restorative day of being pampered. Gaze out at the snow-capped mountains that surround the stunning property as you move from five different mineral pools, all of which feature varying temperatures. If you’re craving a bit more action, the property also has an “activity pool”- complete with a climbing wall and floating obstacle course!

Camping near Ouray Hot Springs

Amphitheater Campground: This popular campground is located just outside of Ouray at an elevation of 8,400 feet. In addition to phenomenal views and fantastic hiking trails, the facility also features fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, and potable water. It is open from June through September, and reservations can be made up to six months in advance. Colorado’s hot springs offer something for everyone, from tranquil resorts to secluded mineral pools that require a bit of effort to reach. Whether you’re looking for an indulgent day of relaxation or a profoundly restorative experience in nature, a hot springs road trip is the best way to melt your stress away. So pack your bathing suit, pick up your Escape Camper Van from our Denver locale, and get ready to discover the absolute best hot springs in Colorado!