Top 5 Hot (and Natural) Springs in Texas – Updated 2024
Chinati Hot Springs, Photo Courtesy of @sergio.chapa
Texas is a great state for finding hot springs, and it has a handful of unique hot springs in the southern part of the state. There are not as many hot springs as other states in the Southwest United States, but the 5 spots we included on our map are truly special. All the spots are linked to Google Maps for directions and for easily finding more information.
Texas Hot Springs Map Key:
Light Blue = Natural Hots Springs
Dark Purple = Hotels, Resorts, & Parks with Hot Springs
1. Chinati Hot Springs
Chinati Hot Springs, Photo Courtesy of @delishdelaye
Chinati Hot Springs, also known as Ruidosa Hot Springs, is a rustic hot spring resort hidden in the Chihuahuan Desert. The property was originally built by a minimalist sculptor Donald Judd and later purchased by a non-profit. The current Texas native who purchased the resort, has invested in bringing the resort to its full potential as a must visit destination.
The property has an outdoor hot springs pool, a public hot spring tub, and private hot spring baths/showers in the cabins. The source of the mineral hot springs here is about 112 degrees. The outdoor pool is kept at 85 to 95 degrees and the public tub is around 95 to 102 degrees, depending on the season.
The accommodations here include 8 rustic cabins to choose from. And, every guest has access to a community kitchen with outdoor grills. You can also drink the mineral water here when you stay. Chinati is a pet-friendly destination. Getting to this remote resort requires a bit of an adventure, as the last 20 or so miles of the road is dirt, but it's well worth the drive!
More info: ChinatiHotSprings.net
2. Boquillas Hot Springs / Big Bend Hot Springs / Langford Hot Springs
Boquillas Hot Springs, Photo Courtesy of @hjanetjones20
Big Bend Hot Springs, also known as Boquillas Hot Springs, is located near the Rio Grande River in Big Bend National park. This area is just across the border from Mexico. The hot spring here is a large cement tub, that is the remains from the historic Langford Bathhouse that used operate over 100 years ago. The water in the tub is nice and hot at around 104 degrees. The springs offer beautiful views of the Rio Grande and the surrounding desert landscape. Look out for ancient pictographs and petroglyphs along the trail.
The optimal time to visit is from fall to spring, as summer temperatures can be extremely high. Additionally, check with park rangers for current conditions, as the trail can be closed due to flooding.
The hot spring is very accessible – you can drive right into Big Bend national park and park at the trailhead. The hike to the hot springs is quite easy and just 1 mile round trip. This hot spring is pet friendly (but keep your doggo on a leash).
Boquillas Hot Springs, Photo Courtesy of @lauradrewmroz
3. Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool, Photo Courtesy of @dallaswanderer
Barton Springs Pool is located in Zilker Park in Austin, Texas. The pool spans three acres and is fed by underground springs, maintaining a refreshing temperature of 68-70°F year-round. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a unique swimming experience in the heart of the city.
The pool is a popular spot to cool off during the summertime and there are great tree covered picnic spots around the pool. The area is home to the endangered Barton Springs salamander, and the area is a protected habitat. There are bathrooms and changing areas by the pool and there is a fee to enter.
The pool is open daily from 5 AM to 10 PM, except on Thursdays when it is closed from 9 AM to 7 PM for cleaning. During the early hours (5-8 AM) and late hours (9-10 PM), swimming is at your own risk as no lifeguards are on duty.
4. Krause Springs
Krause Springs, Photo Courtesy of @krausesprings
Krause Springs is a privately owned 100+ acre park and campground with a forested park, campgrounds, 32 natural springs, swimming holes, trails, waterfalls and more. Located in the scenic hill country of Spicewood, about 45 minutes outside of Austin, this property has been family owned and operated by the Krause family for over 50 years.
Krause Springs has a natural swimming hole fed by the springs and a man-made pool. The water maintains a consistent temperature of about 68°F, making it perfect for hot Texas days. The pools are surrounded by large cypress trees, creating a beautiful and shaded environment.
In addition to enjoying the waters, you can explore all the lush nature on the grounds including the butterfly gardens. The property has 24 RV sites with water and electricity available. There are bathrooms and showers available on the property. Clothing is not optional while swimming in the springs here.
More info: KrauseSprings.net
5. Capote Springs
Capote Hot Springs is a natural hot spring found in Presidio county, near Candelaria, a uniquely beautiful part of the Chihuahuan desert. The waters here are around 98 - 100 degrees year round. After taking a dip at these hot springs, you can take a short hike to Capote Falls, which is one of the largest waterfalls in Texas at over 170ft. This spot is very remote and there aren't too many options to stay overnight closeby. There are a few camping sites in the general vicinity and then the closest RV sites will be about 1 hour away. When visiting, you can learn more about the region by visiting the Marfa and Presidio county museum.
