4 Best Hot Springs in Virginia - Blend of Nature and History (Updated 2025)

Hot Springs Virginia

Photo Courtesy of @tmseid

This is a comprehensive guide to help you explore all the best hot springs in Virginia and find which soak spots are closest to you. 

Virginia's hot springs offer a mix of relaxation, scenic views, and history. These springs have a long-standing appeal, with stories deeply connected to the land. The combination of history and peaceful surroundings provides a break from the stresses of everyday life. Get ready to explore Virginia’s hot springs with insider tips and updated details about seven top destinations to make your trip unforgettable.

All the spots are linked to Google Maps for directions and more information.

Hot Springs Virginia Map

Hot Springs in Virginia

Warm Springs (Omni Homestead Resort)

Hot Springs va

Warm Springs, Photo Courtesy of @gutudiana22

Virginia Hot Springs

Photo Courtesy of @omnihomestead

Warm Springs near the Omni Homestead Resort in Virginia is a historic and luxurious destination known for its therapeutic hot springs. Located in the Allegheny Mountains, the resort has been a wellness retreat since the 18th century. The main attraction is the naturally heated mineral springs, which have been used for relaxation and healing for centuries. The resort itself is a National Historic Landmark, offering a blend of modern amenities and historical charm.

Located just over 5 miles from the main resort, the renowned Jefferson Pool was named after Thomas Jefferson, who visited in 1818. These pools are fed by natural hot springs and are known for their soothing and therapeutic properties. The warm mineral waters are believed to help with various health conditions, including arthritis and muscle pain. The pools have a rustic, historic ambiance, enhancing the overall experience for visitors seeking a unique and rejuvenating soak.

Access to the Warm Springs Pools requires separate reservations (call 540-839-3860) and incurs a fee of $30-$35 per person for a 50-minute soak. The pools are located just over 5 miles from the main resort at 11 Bath Street, Warm Springs, VA.

In addition to the hot springs, the Omni Homestead Resort offers a wide range of activities and amenities. Guests can enjoy golf, horseback riding, and hiking in the beautiful surrounding landscape. The resort also features a full-service spa, fine dining options, and elegant accommodations. With its combination of natural hot springs, luxurious facilities, and rich history, Warm Springs near the Omni Homestead Resort provides a comprehensive and memorable wellness experience.

More about Omni Homestead Resort

Omni Homestead Resort

Omni Homestead Resort, Photo Courtesy of @omnihomestead

Omni Homestead Resort is a historic property known for its elegance and luxury. The meeting and lounge rooms are beautifully designed, with careful attention to detail. History lovers will appreciate the extensive collection of framed photos that offer a glimpse into the resort’s rich past. For a quiet retreat, guests can relax in the cozy sitting rooms, which are well-stocked with a variety of books.

Omni Homestead hot springs

Photo Courtesy of @omnihomestead

For those who enjoy friendly competition, challenge friends and family at the chess and game tables conveniently scattered throughout the main hallways.

Omni Homestead Resort offers a wide range of activities. Guests can take dance lessons, do arts and crafts, and enjoy movies and kids’ programs designed for family fun.

For adventure seekers, the resort features skeet and trap shooting, guided hikes, archery, and even ski lessons in the winter. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy two well-maintained courses with scenic fairways suitable for all skill levels.

The Dining Hall offers an excellent breakfast experience with a generous buffet. Guests can enjoy made-to-order options like egg white vegetable omelets, smoked salmon, and freshly toasted bread. Waffles are served with warm maple syrup and whipped cream for a sweet treat.

Shenandoah Hot Springs

Shenandoah Hot Springs
  • Shenandoah National Park: Enjoy over 200,000 acres of protected lands with hiking trails, wildlife, and beautiful vistas along the Blue Ridge Mountains.

  • Luray Caverns: Visit these extensive caverns, known for their impressive limestone formations and the unique Stalacpipe Organ.

  • Thermal Spa Experiences: While not natural hot springs, several spas in the area offer thermal treatments, massages, and wellness services.

  • Outdoor Activities: The valley offers ample opportunities for outdoor sports, including hiking, biking, fishing, and canoeing along the Shenandoah River.

  • Wine Tours: The Shenandoah Valley is home to numerous vineyards and wineries where you can enjoy tastings and tours.

  • Historical Sites: Explore history at the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton or visit the numerous Civil War sites in the area.

  • Scenic Drives: Take a drive on the Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway for some of the most scenic views in the eastern United States.

Massanutten Resort (Shenandoah Hot Springs)

best hot springs in Virginia

image courtesy of @massresort

hot springs in va

image courtesy of @massresort

Massanutten Resort in Virginia is a popular destination known for its wide range of activities, but its indoor and outdoor hot springs like warm soaking pools stand out as a prime feature for relaxation. The facility offer a soothing escape, whether you're unwinding after a day of skiing or simply enjoying the resort’s beautiful surroundings. These springs are designed to help guests relax, rejuvenate, and relieve muscle tension.

These warm pools at Massanutten Resort are part of their larger wellness facilities, offering:

  • Comfortable water temperatures perfect for relaxation

  • Both indoor and outdoor soaking options

  • Easy access to other wellness amenities like massages and facials

  • Year-round availability for all-weather enjoyment

Alum Springs

  • Location: Alum Springs Park is situated on Greenbrier Drive in Fredericksburg, VA, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors.

  • Park Features: The park covers 34 acres and features a variety of natural landscapes, including woodlands and streams.

  • Historical Significance: Historically known for its alum spring water, the park was once believed to have medicinal properties and was a popular health resort in the 18th and 19th centuries.

  • Walking Trails: There are several walking trails throughout the park, offering peaceful paths through mature forests and along the creek.

  • Creek and Waterfall: The park includes a beautiful creek and a small waterfall, which are popular spots for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural scenery.

  • Picnic Areas: Equipped with picnic tables and shelters, the park is ideal for family outings and group gatherings.

Away from the busy traffic on Blue Gray Parkway, Alum Hot Springs is one of Fredericksburg's hidden gems. This small park offers a quiet getaway surrounded by trees. It's a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and explore several hiking trails.

A trip to Alum Spring Park isn't complete without a picnic. There are picnic tables for convenience, and kids will love the swings. For those looking for a little more adventure, there's a jumping rock near the pool.

Alum Hot Springs is a great spot for a family outing. Keep in mind that it can get crowded, and parking is limited. If you have a low-clearance vehicle, be careful—you’ll need to drive through a shallow stream to get to the park. The spring itself is a pleasant 72 degrees year-round, making it a great place to take a dip.

Alum Springs

Alum Springs, Photo Courtesy of @shibe.photography

natural springs Virginia

Falling Springs

Photo Courtesy of @shelbylhernandez

  • Location: Falling Spring Falls is situated just off Route 220, approximately 5 miles north of Covington, Virginia. It's about a 15-minute drive from the town.

  • Scenic Viewpoint: The waterfall is visible from a well-maintained overlook, which provides excellent views for photography and sightseeing.

  • Waterfall Details: The falls dramatically drop about 80 feet into a deep gorge. This stunning cascade is fed by a natural spring, making it one of the most photographed waterfalls in Virginia.

  • History: The site has historical significance, with visits by Thomas Jefferson in 1782 who called it a "remarkable cascade... falling over a rock about 200 feet to the valley below."

  • Parking and Accessibility: There is a small parking area near the falls, which is free of charge. The overlook is easily accessible from the parking area, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and mobility levels.

  • No Swimming or Hiking to Base: Swimming and hiking down to the base of the falls are prohibited to preserve the natural habitat and ensure visitor safety.

Falling Spring Falls in Virginia is a beautiful waterfall near Covington in Alleghany County. Located just off Route 220, this 80-foot waterfall is a popular destination for both locals and tourists and has historical significance. Thomas Jefferson once visited the falls in 1782 and praised their remarkable beauty in his writings. The waterfall flows from a spring and drops into a deep, green gorge, making it one of the most photographed waterfalls in the state.

Visitors can enjoy the stunning view from a designated overlook, which provides a perfect vantage point for photography or simply soaking in the natural beauty. The overlook is easily reachable from the parking area, which is conveniently located near the main road, making it accessible for all visitors, including those with limited mobility. While direct access to the base of the falls or swimming is not permitted in order to protect the natural environment, the site remains a delightful stop for anyone traveling through or exploring the region. It's particularly impressive during the spring, when water flow is at its peak, or in autumn, when the changing leaves frame the falls in vibrant colors.

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