Hot Springs
Natural hot springs and warm mineral pools — our coverage is growing state by state.
What is a hot spring?
A hot spring is a place where groundwater is naturally heated below the surface and rises to form a warm pool or stream. Soaking water at a hot spring is typically around 90–104°F (about 32–40°C), although some natural sources are much hotter and are not safe for soaking.
No hot-spring listings yet. We are researching and verifying hot-spring listings now, and the first ones will appear here once they have been checked against official sources. This page will not list a place as a hot spring until that check is complete.
What to look for — and how to soak safely
🌡️ Water temperature caution
Test the water before getting in, soak for short periods, and leave the water if you feel dizzy, unwell or overheated. Avoid water that is scalding, has no posted temperature, or is closed to bathing.
💧 Hydration
Drink water before, during and after a soak. Warm water can dehydrate you quickly, so take regular breaks and cool down between soaks.
🚫 No glass
Leave glass bottles and containers at home. Broken glass around pools and paths is a hazard for bare feet and for wildlife, and many sites ban it.
✅ Check official sources before visiting
Opening times, access, fees, closures and safety notices change. Always check the park, land manager or operator’s official information before you travel.
👨👩👧 Children supervision
Supervise children closely at all times around warm and deep water. Hot water can affect children more quickly, so keep soaks short and stay within arm’s reach.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature is a hot spring?
Soaking pools are typically around 90–104°F (about 32–40°C). Natural hot water can be far hotter than that, so only use pools that are managed or clearly marked as safe for bathing, and follow any posted temperature guidance.
Are hot springs free?
Some are free to visit, while others are on park or private land and charge an entry or day-use fee. Access, facilities and charges vary widely, so check the official listing for each site before you go.
What should I bring?
Water, a towel, sun protection, sturdy footwear for paths, and a bag for rubbish. Avoid glass containers, and bring only what the site allows.
When will listings appear here?
As soon as we have researched and verified them against official sources. We have no hot-spring listings to publish yet, and we will add them to this page as that work is completed — rather than publishing unverified places.
Meanwhile: explore our spring-fed pools
These are cool, spring-fed swimming spots — not hot springs — but they are a good place to start while hot-spring coverage is being prepared.
Spring-fed pools
Browse 5 spring-fed swimming spots in Texas, including Barton Springs Pool and Hamilton Pool Preserve.
Browse spring-fed pools →Full directory
Browse all of our verified swimming spots by state and water type.
Browse the directory →Spring-fed pools are not hot springs: their water is naturally cool, not geothermally heated.
