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Image Courtesy Castle Hot Springs
Best known for geological and natural marvels like Grand Canyon National Park, the Sonoran Desert, the Arizona Trail, and towns like Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, and Sedona, the Grand Canyon State is full of hidden oases and off-the-beaten-path adventure destinations that can surprise first-time visitors and locals alike. Example: even though the state is often (too-often) known for its heat, there's a wealth of unique, destination-worthy natural hot springs in Arizona.
It's true, dozens of them. The options cater to every nature enthusiast, from luxurious glamping resorts to remote soaking pools that require a multi-mile hike from off-road parking lots. Warm waters and natural springs set among high canyon walls aren't hard to come by in Arizona, but some guidance is required.
Below is a list of eight divinely unique, rejuvenating natural hot springs experiences, all independently vetted (without giving away too much intrigue). Some are as easy to access as driving to a parking lot, while others might challenge your survival skills. All are sprinkled across desolate parts of this State, ideal for those who dislike crowds, like road trips, and savor a unique getaway. If you do visit, remember to leave no trace, minimize cell phone use/geotagging, and bring lots of drinking water!
The 8 Best Natural Hot Springs in Arizona
Verde Hot Springs — Tonto National Forest
Vibe: Nudist's Paradise
This renowned local treasure uniquely blends rustic charm and bohemian spirit. Hidden among the cottonwood trees at the base of the Verde River, you'll find graffiti-adorned, walled-in hot spring tubs with decades-old punk rock art adding a layer of historical intrigue.
This spot was initially built as part of the Verde Hot Springs Hotel by Floyd Williams in the 1920s. However, after a fire in 1962, only remnants of its past glory remain. Its foundation now provides hot pools to those adventurous enough to tackle the 18-mile dirt road and knee-high river trek to get there. If you're in the Camp Verde area and crave a unique, clothing-optional soaking experience, definitely add this place to your must-visit list.
Closest Town: Camp Verde, AZ
Directions: via AllTrails
Rate: Free to soak, but surrounding wilderness areas may require a permit for camping
Castle Hot Springs — Morristown, AZ
Vibe: Hot Springs Resort
This historical icon stands out among other places on this list, offering luxury resort-style accommodation in Yavapai County just north of Phoenix. Nestled amidst rugged backdrops rich in tales of cowboys, Castle Hot Springs emanates luxury and outstanding hospitality. It's often called the Shangri La of Arizona, a true oasis. Devastated by a fire and the passage of time in the early 1960s, this place has come back to life after stout renovations in 2019, offering new treasures and experiences for locals and visitors. The beautifully maintained hot spring pools are fed with mineral water by the untouched snowmelt from the Bradshaw Mountains and water temperature ranges from 86 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit.
The only caveat is the price to pay per night. But accommodations, which include casitas and cottages, also provide access to a spa and restaurants that source from the property's on-site farm. Castle Hot Springs carries a vibrant history every genuine Arizonan raves about. For those interested, you can watch an Emmy-nominated documentary showcasing the rich history of the Castle Hot Spring lands.
Closest Town: Phoenix, AZ, is only an hour south
Directions: via Google Maps
Rate: $1,600/night
El Dorado Hot Springs — Tonopah, AZ
Vibe: Pit Stop Soak
One hour west of downtown Phoenix heading toward California is a spot worth pausing your road trip for: El Dorado Hot Springs, a super intimate and quirky little spot in the middle of Tonapah's flat desert floor. Pay your respects and leave your cellphones in the car, as no technology should enter the grounds, which includes multiple hot water soaking tubs with private, public, and clothing-optional varieties. The place is reasonably petite in size, so you’ll get to know your neighbors plenty if strangers happen to join you. The grounds have bountiful desert wildlife, including peacocks, pigs, quails, and ducks, for a truly unique experience and does have accommodations and campsites available for an overnight.
Closest Town: Phoenix, AZ (1 hour)
Directions: via Google Maps
Rate: $15/person
Kaiser Hot Springs — Wikieup, AZ
Vibe: Sweeping Canyon Vistas and Classic Desert
Public reviews say Kaiser Hot Springs may not be the hottest, but it shines as the perfect warm, pebble-bottomed pool in the heart of Arizona's barren western canyons. It's a slice of serenity, showcasing stunning beauty and offering a deep sense of peace. The unspoiled, quiet surroundings transform the 1.5-mile journey into an adventure well worth the effort. Remember, clothing is optional here, so be mindful of your camera or cellphone use if greeting other passersby soaking guests.
Nearest Town: Kingsman, AZ
Directions: via Trailforks
Rate: Free
Sheep Bridge Hot Springs — Tonto National Forest
Vibe: Hard-To-Find Faraway Gem
If you're up for group camping, campfire melodies, and a dash of dirtbag—Sheep's Bridge is your spot. Hidden amid grassy plains and mountain walls, this off-the-beaten-track natural pool is an actual treasure chest. This place is a big hit with the locals, offering a playground-sized BLM land just begging for weekend-long exploration. Built in the 1880s, the original bridge near the hot springs helped sheep cross the Verde River into the Bloody Basin. Thanks to the U.S. Forest Service, the 1989 replica still stands strong, providing recreationally safe passage for pedestrians.
Open all year round, Sheep Bridge Hot Springs is a haven for seasoned van dwellers and road junkies. However, it’s a long, rocky, winding road to get there—crossing the river at multiple points, and those boulders aren't small! I wouldn’t recommend this spot for vehicles with low clearance. But hey, the scenic views and the chill vibes at the journey's end make it all worth the wild ride.
Nearest Town: Carefree, AZ
Directions: via AllTrails
Rate: Free
Essence of Tranquility — Safford, AZ
Vibe: Quirky Hole In the Wall
Essence of Tranquility is a mom-and-pop outfit with various hot spring tubs and sitting areas outside Safford, AZ. Although the website may seem outdated, the 2006-era web graphics and funky-colored fonts add to the venue's unique charm. The facility offers six baths with different temperature ranges, allowing you to find the perfect soak to suit your preference. Additionally, the property is dotted with picnic benches and serene spots ideal for meditation or reading, as well as accommodations in basic casitas that also offer access to a communal kitchen and patio. Hot spring water temperatures range from 98 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
Nearest Town: Safford, AZ
Directions: via Google Maps
Rate: $15/hour or $35/day
Pumpkin Spring Pool — Grand Canyon
Vibe: Halloween in the Canyon
A natural, obscure wonder at the bottom of the Colorado River in Arizona’s famous Grand Canyon, Pumpkin Hot Springs attracts thrill seekers of all backgrounds. It’s a giant arsenic geothermal hot spot in the shape of a pumpkin. Bright orange on the exterior with patches of effervescent limestone overflowing its sides makes for a hypnotic terra incognito wonder. The only problem? It’s far too hot and toxic to bathe in, let alone touch, carrying the highest concentration of poison amidst the entire river. Despite these restrictions, the site is worth checking out during your Canyon visit. Located at mile 212.9 along the Colorado River, it’s worth noting that you can only access this area by boat.
Nearest Town: Littlefield, AZ
Directions: via Google Maps
Rate: Free to observe, but you must take a boat along the river to access it.
Arizona (Ringbolt) Hot Springs — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Vibe: Road Warrior’s Paradise
Ringbolt Hot Springs is ideal for a day or two of adventure if you're road-tripping across the American Southwest. It's located on the Arizona-Nevada border just outside Boulder City, near the famous Hoover Dam, and reaching the hot springs requires a scenic yet challenging hike down the White Mountain Canyon trailhead through a winding slot canyon. The journey involves knee-deep river walks and climbing a 20-foot ladder alongside a waterfall to reach the geothermal pools. One important note: avoid getting the water up your nose due to the risk of a dangerous amoeba. Flash floods are possible, and super hot weather is a significant setback in the desert: this trail is closed from May 15th to September 30th each year, due to the risk of extreme (and sometimes life-threatening) heat exposure.
This fountain-of-youth soak is worth the 5.8-mile trek (during the months the trail is open to the public) and is an excellent refresher after a long car ride if you find yourself in the area.
Nearest Town: Boulder City, NV and Las Vegas
Directions: via AllTrails
Rate: $15/day for day permits (per vehicle) are required to enter the Lake Mead Recreational Area.
Published 08-11-2023
