Arizona is home to several natural hot springs that offer a range of benefits from reducing stress to relieving pain.
Some of the popular hot springs destinations include Roper Lake State Park Hot Springs, Sheep Bridge Hot Springs, and Burro Creek.
Additionally, the Lake Mead Recreation Area is an ideal spot for fishing and hiking, while the Grand Canyon National Park offers breathtaking views and hiking trails.
Arizona Hot Spring
Located in the Lake Mead Recreation Area, the Arizona Hot Spring is a natural wonder that can be reached by either hiking or boating.
The hot spring is nestled between narrow canyon walls, adding to its allure.
The hike to the hot spring can be done through two trails, White Rock Canyon or Hot Spring Canyon.
Hot Spring Canyon is shorter but steeper than the former.
After enjoying the hot spring, you can spend the night at the on-site campground and sleep under the stars.
Getting There
To get to the Arizona Hot Spring, follow U.S. Hwy 93 east for 8 miles from the Lake Mead Visitor Center.
Follow the signs for the Arizona Hot Spring trailhead.
If you prefer to travel by boat, you can take a boat on the Colorado River.
Entrance Fees
The park entrance fee is $25 per vehicle, valid for seven days.
Visiting the Arizona Hot Spring is a must-do activity for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Castle Hot Springs
Located in the Bradshaw Mountains, Castle Hot Springs is a luxury resort known for its therapeutic hot springs.
The pools at this secluded spot heat up to a temperature of 120°F / 49°C, making it the hottest non-volcanic natural spring in the world.
The American Indians from the Apache and Yavapai tribes were the first to recognize the healing power of the spring.
Today, Castle Hot Springs Resort offers a variety of accommodations, including casitas and cabins, to its guests.
The resort also offers spa treatments, making it an ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Note that access to the hot springs is restricted to resort guests only, and children under the age of 16 are not allowed.
To book a room, you can contact the resort at (877) 600-1137.
Rates vary based on the type of accommodation you choose.
If you’re looking for a digital detox destination, Castle Hot Springs is a great option.
Check out “Arizona Unplugged: 5 Digital-Detox Destinations” to learn more about other similar destinations in the area.
El Dorado Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a rustic and natural hot spring experience, El Dorado Hot Springs is a must-visit destination.
Located an hour west of Phoenix, the hot springs offer a laid-back atmosphere with dirt paths and overgrown vegetation.
The soak zones come in different sizes and styles, ranging from tiny clawfoot bathtubs to spacious stone pools.
You can choose from public or private areas, with clothing-optional options available.
You can book your soak by the hour or stay overnight at the campground.
Note that the hot springs operate seasonally from October 1 to June 1, and only by appointment during the summer.
Call ahead to confirm hours.
If you go:
- Location: 41225 Indian School Rd., Tonopah
- Phone: (623) 386-5412
- Price: $15 per person per hour
Essence of Tranquility
Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in a serene experience at Essence of Tranquility.
With its outdoor soaking tubs, casitas, on-site camping spots, communal kitchen, and patio, you can either spend a relaxing afternoon or make it a full weekend getaway.
The facility offers five private pools and one communal pool, with temperatures ranging from 98-105°F / 37-40°C, providing the perfect temperature for your ultimate relaxation.
Additionally, you can book massages and other treatments by calling ahead.
For only $8 per person for 1 hour or $15 per person for 3 hours, you can enjoy a peaceful and rejuvenating experience.
Note that smaller children are welcome but must be kept under close supervision.
Hot Well Dunes Hot Springs
Hot Well Dunes, a popular ATV recreation spot, also offers two hot-springs tubs for soaking.
The tubs are powered by solar energy and are filled with water from an underground hot spring.
The temperature of the water reaches about 106°F / 41°C, providing a relaxing experience for visitors.
However, keep in mind that the area is also used for dune riding and camping.
To get to Hot Well Dunes from Safford, drive 7 miles east on U.S. Hwy 70, then take Haekel Road south for 25 miles.
The entrance fee is $3 per vehicle per day, and visitors can contact (928) 348-4400 for more information.
Before heading out to Hot Well Dunes, it’s recommended to check the weather forecast for rain, as the road to the site is prone to flooding.
Kaiser Hot Springs
Kaiser Hot Springs is a serene and secluded hot spring located in Kaiser Spring Canyon, near Burro Creek.
The hot spring features a shallow, rock-bottomed pool with water temperatures reaching a comfortable 100°F / 38°C.
The surrounding canyon walls give way to a sandy wash, creating a picturesque setting.
To access the hot spring, visitors must hike a three-mile round-trip trail, so it is important to wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes.
There are no on-site amenities available, so be sure to bring food and water.
To get to Kaiser Hot Springs, take U.S. Hwy 93 north from Wickenburg and continue 5 miles past the Burro Creek bridge.
Follow the sign for Kaiser Spring Wash and park on the west side of Hwy. 93, north of Burro Creek Campground.
Admission to the hot spring is free.
Verde River Hot Springs
Located between Camp Verde and Payson, Verde River Hot Springs offers a serene and natural environment for visitors to relax and unwind.
Despite its origins as a once-famous wellness retreat, the primitive surroundings of the hot springs provide a unique and peaceful experience.
The highlight of the destination is the deep soaking pool, heated to 98°F / 37°C, and the smaller cliffside pools that offer a stunning view of the Verde River.
Verde River Hot Springs is a popular spot for hot-springs purists, including nudists.
If you’re not shy about a little skin, then this riverside spot is a worthy retreat.
However, note that there are no facilities at the springs, so it’s important to bring plenty of water and food.
Additionally, the springs are at least a one-mile hike away, and visitors will have to cross the river, so it’s essential to dress accordingly.
If you plan to visit Verde River Hot Springs, the address is 8375 AZ-179, Camp Verde, and admission is free.
