Best 5 Hot Springs in Texas: Top Soothing Spots to Visit

Hot Springs in Texas offer a relaxing retreat in various scenic locations, from the Chihuahuan Desert near Presidio to Hill Country near Austin. These springs feature water temperatures ranging from 68°F to over 100°F, depending on the site. 

Chinati Hot Springs, for example, offers temperatures between 85°F and 109°F, while Big Bend Hot Springs maintains a warm 104-105°F. With an average rating of 3.9/5, these spots provide a unique blend of natural beauty and relaxation. Best visited in fall or spring, many require reservations or permissions due to their remote locations. Hot Springs in Texas are a perfect escape.

During my recent travels through the Lone Star State, I was amazed by how each hot spring offered its own rhythm of peace — from sunrise soaks in the desert to cool dips beneath cypress trees. At Soak Destinations, we highlight these hidden Texas gems to help travelers discover where nature, warmth, and relaxation come together perfectly.

The property spans 640 acres with hiking trails, community kitchen facilities, and spectacular stargazing opportunities. Note that the final 7 miles require navigating an unpaved dirt road – high clearance vehicles recommended.

Hot Springs in Texas Map

1. Krause Springs

• Location: 424 County Road 404, Spicewood, Texas 78669 (approximately 30-45 minutes west of Austin in Hill Country)
• Cost: Adults (12+) $9-10; Children (4-11) $5-6; Kids under 4 free. Cash preferred, credit cards accepted. RV camping $15 per site (24 sites with water and electricity); Primitive tent camping available.
• Water Temperature: Constant 68°F
• Weather/Best Season: Late Spring through Summer (closed mid-November through mid-February)
• Review: 4.5/5 Rating
• Official Website: KrauseSprings.net

Krause Springs features 32 natural springs across 115 acres of lush Hill Country landscape. The Krause family has owned and operated this historic property for over 50 years, maintaining its natural beauty while providing modern amenities. 

The manmade upper pool ranges from 2.5 to 8 feet deep with a waterfall cascading into the natural lower swimming hole below. Ancient cypress trees provide shaded relaxation spots, while small caves and rock formations create unique exploration opportunities. 

Additional attractions include butterfly gardens, hiking trails, community grills, and bathroom facilities with showers. Open daily 9 AM-8 PM during operational season. No pets allowed.

2. Chinati Hot Springs

• Location: Ruidosa, near Presidio, Texas (Chihuahuan Desert) – approximately 2 hours south of Marfa
• Cost: Overnight stays starting at $150 per night (cabins without private tubs); El Presidente cabin $230; Entire property rental $1400 (sleeps 20). By reservation only – no day passes available. Pet fee $15.
• Water Temperature: Source spring at 112°F; outdoor pool maintained at 85-95°F; public hot tub at 95-102°F (seasonal variation); private cabin tubs at 104-109°F
• Weather/Best Season: Fall and Spring (October through April) – Desert blossoms during these months with comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities
• Review: Rated 4.6/5
• Official Website: ChinatiHotSprings.net

Originally constructed by minimalist sculptor Donald Judd, Chinati Hot Springs now operates as a destination resort in the remote Chihuahuan Desert. 

This secluded retreat features eight rustic cabins, each offering unique desert charm with modern comforts. Guests enjoy multiple soaking options including an outdoor swimming pool, communal hot tub, and private baths in select cabins. 

Rustic Cabins and On-Site Amenities

Chinati Hot Springs has eight rustic cabins, each designed to blend into the desert landscape. The cabins offer a simple and cozy stay without unnecessary distractions. Guests have access to a shared community kitchen, making it easy to prepare meals during their visit. Outdoor grills are also available for cooking under the desert sky. The resort allows guests to drink the mineral water, which many believe has natural health benefits due to its mineral content.

Pet-Friendly Stay and Guest Experience

The resort is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their dogs along for the trip. This makes it a great choice for travelers who prefer not to leave their pets behind. The calm setting, open land, and natural environment create a relaxing experience for both people and animals. Evenings are especially peaceful, with clear skies and little light pollution, making stargazing a favorite activity.

3. Barton Springs Pool

• Location: 2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746, United States
• Cost: Residents: Adults $5, Juniors (12-17) $3, Seniors (62+) $2, Children (1-11) $2; Non-Residents: Adults $9, Juniors $5, Seniors $5, Children $4; Veterans and infants under 1 year free. Free admission 5-8 AM daily and 9-10 PM on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday (no lifeguards during free hours). Season passes available.
• Timing: The pool is open daily from 5 AM to 10 PM. On Thursdays, it is closed from 9 AM to 7 PM for cleaning. Swimming from 5-8 AM and 9-10 PM is at your own risk. No lifeguards are on duty during these times.
• Water Temperature: Constant 68-70°F year-round
• Weather/Best Season: Summer (ideal for cooling off during hot Texas days); open year-round
• Review: 4.6/5 Rating
• Official Website: AustinTexas.gov – Barton Springs

Barton Springs Pool encompasses three acres of natural spring-fed swimming within Austin’s Zilker Park. Underground springs continuously feed the pool, maintaining refreshing temperatures perfect for year-round enjoyment. 

The pool reaches depths of 8 feet in downstream sections due to natural rock formations. Originally developed in 1920, this historic site served the Tonkawa Native American tribe for purification ceremonies centuries before modern development. 

Today’s amenities include bathhouse facilities (currently under renovation with temporary facilities available), changing areas, and lifeguard supervision during operating hours. The pool closes Thursdays 9 AM-7 PM for maintenance cleaning.

4. Capote Springs

• Location: 11 miles northeast of Candelaria in western Presidio County (approximately 1.5 hours from Marfa)
• Cost: Access requires permission from private landowner – not publicly accessible without authorization
• Water Temperature: 98-100°F year-round
• Weather/Best Season: Winter (cooler ambient temperatures enhance the thermal soaking experience)
• Official Website: No official website (private property – permission required)

Capote Springs represents one of Texas’s most remote thermal water sources, emerging from Quaternary gravel in the Chihuahuan Desert wilderness. The mineral-rich waters flow at approximately two gallons per second, creating natural travertine formations. 

These springs feed Capote Falls, which plunges 175-180 feet over Bracks rhyolite cliffs – the tallest waterfall in Texas. The surrounding ecosystem hosts extremely rare flora including the endangered Hinckley columbine and many-stemmed spider flower. 

Wildlife includes canyon tree frogs and mastiff bats. Due to private ownership and remote location, access requires explicit permission. The nearest accommodations and camping facilities are in Marfa, approximately 1.5 hours away.

5. Big Bend Hot Springs (Boquillas Hot Springs / Langford Hot Springs)

• Location: Big Bend National Park, near Rio Grande River – Rio Grande Village section, southeastern border of the park
• Cost: $30 per vehicle for 7-day park pass; $25 per motorcycle; $15 per person (non-commercial groups 16+); Big Bend Annual Pass $55; America the Beautiful Pass $80 (annual access to all national parks)
• Water Temperature: Approximately 104-105°F
• Weather/Best Season: Fall through Spring (avoid summer when temperatures exceed 110°F daily)
• Official Website: Big Bend National Park – Hot Springs

Big Bend Hot Springs sits within the remains of the historic Langford Bathhouse, operational over a century ago. The large cement tub captures mineral-rich water naturally heated underground, providing therapeutic soaking with breathtaking desert and river vistas. 

The trailhead offers convenient parking, and the simple half-mile walk passes historic resort ruins including a vintage motor court and post office building. Hikers can explore ancient rock art along the trail. 

Important note: Pets cannot access trails in Big Bend National Park, and rangers frequently patrol the area to ensure compliance with regulations.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Boquillas Hot Springs is from fall to spring. Summer temperatures can get extremely high, making it uncomfortable for hiking or soaking. Spring brings blooming desert flowers, while fall offers cooler weather and colorful sunsets. Always check with park rangers before visiting, as heavy rains can cause flooding and temporarily close the trail.

Hiking Trail Details

The trail to the springs is simple and well-marked. It takes roughly 20–30 minutes to reach the hot springs at a relaxed pace. The surrounding scenery includes desert plants, rocky terrain, and occasional wildlife sightings. Good hiking shoes are recommended, and carrying water is important, especially in warmer months.

Pets Policy

Pets are allowed in Big Bend National Park, but there are strict rules. Pets cannot go on trails, off roads, or near the river—they can only be where your vehicle can go. This means bringing a pet will limit your ability to explore the hot springs. For a full experience, it’s better to leave pets at home.

Contact Us for More Information

Looking to plan your next Texas adventure? Whether you’re seeking more details about the best hot springs or need help booking your stay, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. Our expert team is dedicated to crafting personalized experiences that make your trip unforgettable. Don’t wait—contact us today to start planning your perfect getaway!