Natural hot springs are a rare travel cheat: real geothermal pools that cost nothing but the hike. Many range between 95 and 110°F, warmed by groundwater meeting hot rock. Flows and temperatures change with seasons, so test water slowly, never submerge your head, and pack out trash. These six spots are free, scenic, and reachable with basic planning. Check trail conditions, bring sandals for rocky entries, and carry extra water. Sunrise soaks are quieter and usually clearer after a cool night.
1. Travertine Hot Springs – California
Near Bridgeport on public land, Travertine flows over mineral terraces into small tubs with wide Sierra views. The pools often sit between 100 and 105°F, but shift with snowmelt. A short graded road leads to a parking area, and a boardwalk helps protect fragile deposits. The site is free to visit, though it can fill at sunset. Arrive early, keep soaps out of the water, and stay on established paths so the creamy travertine continues forming for future travelers. Winter access can be icy; check local road reports and carry traction if storms are forecast.
2. Wild Willy’s (Crowley) Hot Springs – California
South of Mammoth Lakes, a wooden boardwalk leads to two free soaking pools in open sage country. The larger heart-shaped pool is shallow and usually around 95 to 100°F, perfect after hiking or skiing nearby. The smaller pool runs hotter and fits fewer people. Winds can be strong on the plateau, so pack a warm layer even in summer. The water is natural; skip glass bottles and leave the area cleaner than you found it to keep it open. Sunrise light is beautiful. Road conditions vary after storms; the final dirt stretch can be rutted but passable with care.
3. Penny Hot Springs – Colorado
Just south of Carbondale, roadside rock rings along the Crystal River trap hot water that mixes with cold current. Locals adjust boulders to balance the temperature, which often lands near 100°F. Parking is limited and the shoulder is narrow, so arrive early and watch traffic. Spring runoff can cool or wash out pools; late summer and fall are more reliable. Soak for free, keep music low, and scatter the rock walls when you leave so high flows can reset the bank. Respect neighbors. In cold months, bring sandals and a dry bag for quick exits along the icy shoulder.
4. Spence Hot Springs – New Mexico
Near Jemez Springs, a short trail drops to hillside pools with views of forested canyons. Water typically sits in the mid-90s to low-100s°F, with warmer pockets near the source. The hike is about a mile round trip, but the slope can be slick in snow or summer storms. Weekdays are calmer than weekends. The pools are fragile and small, so rotate with others and avoid sunscreen in the water. Free access depends on careful, low-impact visits. Pack a towel and patience. Parking fills early on weekends; arrive at sunrise or late afternoon for quieter pools.
5. Meadow Hot Springs – Utah
On private land near Fillmore, three crystal-clear pools invite free soaking, with donation boxes supporting access. The water is warm year-round, generally between 95 and 100°F, and the main pool is deep enough for careful dips with a rope. Please respect signs, close gates, and pack out everything you bring; continued public access relies on good behavior. The dirt road is passable in most cars when dry, but recent storms can leave ruts. Evening visits bring big desert skies. Weekdays are typically calmer than weekends; respect nearby ranch operations and keep noise low.
6. Sunbeam Hot Springs – Idaho
A few miles from Stanley, rock-lined pools along the Salmon River mix steaming outflow with cold current for adjustable temperatures. The river can be swift in spring, so enter slowly and supervise kids closely. Historic bathhouse remnants still stand nearby, a reminder of early roadside stops. The site is free and popular with anglers and road trippers. Bring river shoes, avoid glass, and keep dogs out of tubs to protect water quality. Dawn soaks often mean fewer crowds and calm air. Nearby Stanley sits above 6,200 feet, so evenings cool fast; warm layers make post soak walks comfortable.
