Hot Springs Travel on a Budget: Save Without Missing Out
Imagine soaking in a steamy, mineral-rich pool surrounded by serene nature, snow-capped mountains, or desert vistas—without draining your wallet. Sounds like a dream? It doesn’t have to be. Hot springs are some of the most rejuvenating and memorable travel experiences you can have, and with a little smart planning, you can enjoy them without overspending.
Here’s how to make your hot springs getaway amazing and affordable.
1. Skip the Resorts, Discover the Natural Gems
While luxury hot spring resorts offer top-tier amenities, they often come with high price tags. But some of the most magical hot springs are free or low-cost, tucked away in nature.
Look for these wallet-friendly options:
- Natural hot springs: These are often located on public lands (like national forests or BLM areas). They’re usually free or require just a small parking or day-use fee.
- State parks and public bathhouses: Some states maintain budget-friendly hot springs that are clean, safe, and scenic.
Pro tip: Use online forums or apps like AllTrails, Gaia GPS, or Hot Springs Locator to find lesser-known spots.
2. Travel Off-Season
Hot springs can get crowded—and expensive—during peak travel times like summer or holidays. If you’re flexible, travel during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when accommodations are cheaper and you’ll likely have the pools to yourself.
Bonus: Cooler air + warm water = the ultimate contrast therapy.
3. Camp or Book Budget Stays Nearby
Skip the pricey resort lodges and opt for:
- Camping: Many hot springs are located near campgrounds or dispersed camping areas.
- Hostels and motels: These are usually just a short drive from popular hot springs and much cheaper than resort stays.
- Cabin rentals: Websites like Hipcamp or Airbnb sometimes offer rustic cabins near springs for a fraction of the cost of resort stays.
4. Pack Smart to Save Big
Nothing eats into a budget like eating out every meal or forgetting essentials. Plan ahead by:
- Bringing your own towels, reusable water bottles, snacks, and bathing suits.
- Prepping simple meals or packing a cooler to avoid overpriced cafes near popular hot springs.
- Carrying flip-flops or water shoes (some springs have rocky or slippery access).
Hot tip: A waterproof phone pouch lets you take those epic steamy selfies without risking your gear.
5. Bundle Your Adventure
Many hot spring locations offer more than just a soak. You’ll often find:
- Nearby hikes or waterfalls
- Scenic drives
- Local farmers markets or roadside attractions
By choosing a destination with multiple free or low-cost attractions, you can stretch your budget and enjoy a fuller experience.
6. Top Budget-Friendly Hot Springs to Check Out
Need some inspo? Here are a few tried-and-true budget hot springs in the U.S.:
- Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon: Free with a $5 parking pass. Surrounded by lush forest and waterfalls.
- Bagby Hot Springs, Oregon: Rustic soaking tubs in forest cabins for a small fee.
- Conundrum Hot Springs, Colorado: Requires a challenging hike, but free and absolutely stunning.
- Boquillas Hot Springs, Texas (Big Bend): Nestled on the Rio Grande with views of Mexico. Entry included in park admission.
- Sierra Hot Springs, California: Affordable day passes and camping options.
7. Respect the Springs
Keeping your budget low doesn’t mean cutting corners on etiquette. Be a responsible traveler:
- Pack out what you pack in.
- Leave no trace.
- Respect local customs, signage, and clothing requirements (some hot springs are clothing-optional—do your research).
- Avoid wearing sunscreen or lotions in the water—they can damage delicate ecosystems.
Final Soak: You Can Travel Well Without Spending Big
Traveling to hot springs doesn’t require luxury spending. With a little research, flexibility, and a spirit of adventure, you can enjoy unforgettable experiences, meet like-minded travelers, and recharge your body and soul—all on a budget.
So grab your towel, fill your gas tank, and hit the road—your next epic (and affordable) soak is waiting.
