Top 6 Natural Hot Springs in Texas

Hot Springs in Texas offer a unique way to experience the state’s natural beauty, from desert oases to hill country retreats. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or scenic landscapes, these springs provide a perfect escape. 

With options ranging from remote desert springs to family-friendly pools, Texas has something for everyone. These springs not only offer a peaceful experience but also allow visitors to connect with the state’s diverse geology, history, and natural wonders. 

Explore some of the best hot springs Texas has to offer for a memorable and rejuvenating getaway.

1. Chinati Hot Springs: A Desert Oasis in Texas

Location: Chihuahuan Desert near Ruidosa, Texas

Also known as Ruidosa Hot Springs, this rustic resort provides a blend of relaxation and natural beauty. Originally designed by sculptor Donald Judd, it has since been revitalized to become a serene destination for travelers.

Key Features

• Hot Springs and Pools: The source water temperature is a soothing 112°F. Outdoor pool maintained at 85–95°F, perfect for a refreshing soak. Public tub kept at 95–102°F, offering a cozy option for relaxation.Private baths/showers in cabins provide an intimate hot spring experience.
• Accommodations: Choose from 8 rustic cabins, each with access to shared amenities, including a community kitchen and outdoor grills.
• Drinkable Mineral Water: Guests can enjoy the health benefits of drinking the on-site mineral water.
• Pet-Friendly: The resort welcomes pets, making it an excellent choice for travelers with furry companions.
• Remote Adventure: Reaching Chinati Hot Springs requires navigating 20 miles of dirt roads, adding to the sense of adventure and seclusion.
• Best Time to Visit: Fall and spring are ideal, offering comfortable weather for exploring the desert surroundings and enjoying the springs.

Visitor Tips

• Bring all necessary supplies due to the remote location.
• Check road conditions in advance for the dirt access road.
• Use the community kitchen for meal preparation.
• Book early, as cabin availability is limited.

2. Boquillas Hot Springs: A Historic Desert Oasis

Location: Rio Grande River in Big Bend National Park

Also called Langford Hot Springs or Big Bend Hot Springs, this site offers a blend of history and natural beauty. The springs are set in a cement tub that dates back over 100 years, providing stunning views of the Rio Grande and desert landscapes.

Key Features

• Hot Spring Experience: The cement tub maintains a steady temperature of 104°F, ideal for soaking and relaxation.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Rio Grande River and the desert landscape. Ancient pictographs add a cultural and historical dimension to the visit.
• Accessibility: The springs are easily reached via a short, 1-mile round-trip hike from the trailhead, which is accessible by car.
• Best Time to Visit: Plan visits from fall to spring, when temperatures are more comfortable. Summers can be extremely hot.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash.
• Nearby Accommodations: Lodging is available in Terlingua or within Big Bend National Park at the Chisos Mountain Lodge.
• Dining Options: Dining can be found in Terlingua, offering local fare and a casual atmosphere. Bring snacks and water for the trail.

Additional Features

• Flood Advisory: Check conditions with park rangers, as trails close due to flooding.
• Historic Significance: The area holds remnants of the bathhouse from over 100 years ago.

Visitor Tips

• Arrive early to enjoy a quieter experience.
• Bring water and sun protection, especially during warmer months.
• Respect the site by following park rules and leaving no trace.

3. Barton Springs Pool: A Refreshing Oasis

Location: Zilker Park, Austin, Texas

Barton Springs Pool spans three acres and is fed by underground springs. It’s a popular destination for swimmers and nature enthusiasts. The pool also serves as a protected habitat for the endangered Barton Springs salamander.

Key Features

• Natural Pool: The spring-fed waters provide a refreshing and unique swimming experience in a natural environment.
• Temperature: The pool maintains a cool temperature of 68-70°F, ideal for hot Texas days.
• Facilities: Bathrooms, changing areas, and shaded picnic spots surround the pool, making it family-friendly and convenient.
• Operating Hours: Open daily from 5 AM to 10 PM, with exceptions on Thursdays when it closes for cleaning from 9 AM to 7 PM. Early and late swimming (5-8 AM, 9-10 PM) is at your own risk, as lifeguards are off duty.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer months are popular, but mornings and weekdays are quieter. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
• Fees: There is an entry fee to access the pool, with rates varying for residents and non-residents.
• Nearby Dining and Accommodations: Austin offers a range of dining options near Zilker Park, from casual food trucks to upscale restaurants. Downtown Austin provides hotels and other lodging options within a short drive.

Visitor Tips

• Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak summer days.
• Pack sunscreen, towels, and snacks for a comfortable visit.
• Respect the protected habitat of the salamanders and follow park rules.

4. Krause Springs: A Hill Country Retreat

Location: Spicewood, Texas

Krause Springs is a privately owned 100+ acre park featuring natural springs, swimming holes, and lush gardens. Owned by the Krause family for over 50 years, it combines nature, recreation, and tranquility.

Key Features

• Natural and Man-Made Pools: The property features a natural swimming hole fed by 32 springs and a man-made pool. Both maintain a refreshing temperature of 68°F, perfect for cooling off.
• Scenic Surroundings: Large cypress trees provide shade, and the park includes trails, waterfalls, and butterfly gardens.
• Camping and RV Options: The site offers 24 RV spaces with water and electricity. Bathrooms and showers are available for campers.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Swimming is a highlight, but clothing is required, ensuring a family-friendly environment.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring through early fall offers the best conditions to enjoy the springs and gardens.
• Nearby Dining and Lodging: Spicewood has a few local dining spots, while Austin offers diverse options just a short drive away. Nearby accommodations include campgrounds, cabins, and hotels.

Visitor Tips

• Bring towels, sunscreen, and swimsuits for a comfortable day.
• Arrive early, especially on weekends, to enjoy quieter surroundings.
• Respect the natural environment by following park rules.

5. Capote Springs: A Hidden Desert Gem

Location: Presidio County, near Candelaria, Texas

Capote Springs offers a serene natural hot spring experience with year-round temperatures of 98–100°F. Its remote location and proximity to Capote Falls, one of Texas’s largest waterfalls, make it a unique and tranquil destination.

Key Features

• Hot Springs: The spring’s warm waters provide a relaxing soak surrounded by the desert’s rugged beauty.
• Capote Falls: A short hike leads to Capote Falls, a breathtaking 170-foot waterfall, among the tallest in Texas.
• Remote Tranquility: This spot is remote, offering a peaceful escape, but requires planning due to limited nearby accommodations.
• Best Time to Visit: The cooler months of fall to spring are ideal for comfortable hiking and soaking in the springs.

Camping and Lodging

• Camping: Limited campsites are available nearby.
• RV Sites: The closest options are about 1 hour away.
• Hotels: Consider staying in Marfa or Presidio for more lodging options.

Nearby Attractions

• Visit the Marfa and Presidio County Museum to explore the region’s history.
• Enjoy stargazing, as the remote location offers dark skies.

Visitor Tips

• Prepare for minimal amenities; bring water, snacks, and proper hiking gear.
• Drive a reliable vehicle, as the area is remote and roads may be rugged.
• Respect the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles.

6. Jacob’s Well: A Natural Marvel

Location: Wimberley, Texas

Jacob’s Well features one of Texas’s longest underwater caves, delivering several thousand gallons of water per minute. It serves as the headwaters of Cypress Creek, which flows into Blue Hole and the Blanco River.

Key Features

• Crystal Clear Waters: The pool is 12 feet wide on the surface and over 30 feet deep, maintaining an average temperature of 70°F year-round.
• Underwater Exploration: Jacob’s Well connects to a vast cave system, making it a popular spot for trained divers and adventurers.
• Geologic Significance: This area is a notable geological landmark in the Texas Hill Country, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring through early fall offers the best conditions for swimming and exploring the surroundings.

Nearby Activities

• Visit Blue Hole Regional Park for additional swimming and picnicking options.
• Explore Wimberley’s charming shops and dining spots.

Tips for Visitors

• Swimming in Jacob’s Well requires reservations due to conservation efforts.
• Respect the environment to help preserve this natural wonder.
• Bring water shoes for safe footing around the spring.