Riverbend Hot Springs: Truth or Consequences’ Best Retreat

Nestled along the serene Rio Grande riverbank, Riverbend Hot Springs offers an unforgettable desert escape in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. Located at 100 Austin Street in downtown Truth or Consequences, approximately 150 miles south of Albuquerque, this riverside retreat features natural geothermal pools with temperatures ranging from 95°F to 108°F. 

The property is easily accessible via Interstate 25, showcasing both developed soaking pools and authentic mineral baths with stunning Turtleback Mountain views. Originally built as Pierce’s Minnows bait shop in the 1940s, the property transformed into a hot springs destination in 1990. Currently rated 4 out of 5 by thousands of visitors, Riverbend provides clothing-optional private pools and social common pools. 

Nearby attractions include Elephant Butte Lake State Park and Spaceport America. Entry costs start at $30 for property passes, with private pools available for 50-minute sessions. Experience the healing waters and connect with nature at this desert oasis featured on SoakDestinations.

What are Riverbend Hot Springs? Quick Overview

Riverbend Hot Springs Directions & Map

I took the scenic route from Albuquerque, heading south on Interstate 25 for approximately 150 miles through the stunning New Mexico high desert. The two-hour drive passed through rolling hills and distant mountains. 

Approaching Truth or Consequences, I took Exit 79 onto Business I-25, then turned right onto Austin Street. The hot springs appeared on my left with convenient parking adjacent to the entrance. The paved roads made access easy, and I immediately noticed the colorful property and peaceful Rio Grande flowing behind the buildings.

Riverbend Hot Springs: Hours, Prices, Reservations, and Check-Out

Riverbend Hot Springs offers a relaxing experience with flexible hours, affordable pricing, easy reservations, and convenient check-out options to suit your needs. Here’s a quick overview of everything you need to know:

Riverbend Hot Springs Hours

Riverbend Hot Springs operates daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM (11:00 PM during Daylight Saving Time). Last entries for property passes or private pool sessions are at 9:00 PM. The facility is closed on Thursday mornings from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for maintenance. The resort remains open year-round, including all major holidays.

Riverbend Hot Springs Prices

• Property Passes:
  • Off-peak: $30 (Monday-Thursday) for two people
  • Peak: $40 (Friday-Sunday) for two people
  • Additional people: $15 each
• Private Pool Sessions:
  • Off-peak: $40 for two people (50 minutes)
  • Peak: $50 for two people (50 minutes)
• Overnight Lodging Guests:
  • Complimentary access to common pools during operating hours
• Last-Minute Soaks:
  • Special half-price soaks for single visitors booking off-peak sessions under 60 minutes in advance

Riverbend Hot Springs Reservations

• Highly Recommended: Reservations can be made at riverbendhotsprings.com.
• Booking Patterns:
  • Friday and Saturday nights: 6-8 weeks in advance during peak seasons
  • Weekdays: 2-4 weeks ahead
• Yield Management System: Rates vary based on demand, with early bookings offering better prices.
• Private Pool Sessions: Can sell out days in advance, so early booking is essential.

Riverbend Hot Springs Check-Out Time

• Standard Check-Out: 11:00 AM for overnight guests, but guests can access common pools until 10:00 AM on the check-out day.
• Extended Pass: For a fee, guests can access pools until 2:00 PM on check-out day and check in early at noon on arrival day.

Riverbend Hot Springs Photos – Stunning & Scenic Views

Practical Information for You – Important to Know

Riverbend Hot Springs requires paid reservations with property passes starting at $30-40 or private pool sessions at $40-50 per 50 minutes. The facility features concrete-and-stone common pools and fiberglass-tiled private pools. 

The largest pool measures 16 feet by 25 feet with depths ranging from 1 to 3 feet. Source water emerges at 108°F from geothermal aquifers. Pool temperatures average 95°F to 108°F year-round. Private pools are clothing-optional while common pools require swimwear, providing a rustic-meets-refined riverside experience.

Are there hot springs in Truth or Consequences?

Yes, Truth or Consequences has numerous natural hot springs throughout downtown. The area sits atop one of the largest geothermal aquifers in the southwestern United States, producing 2.5 million gallons daily. Options include Riverbend, Blackstone Hotsprings, and Sierra Grande.

How Do I Get to Riverbend Hot Springs?

Access is straightforward by car from Interstate 25, Exit 79. From downtown, drive to 100 Austin Street near the riverfront. The property sits 150 miles south of Albuquerque (2-hour drive). GPS coordinates are 33°07’11″N, 107°14’17″W.

How hot are the pools at Riverbend Hot Springs? 

Pool temperatures range from 95°F in the large Sierra Pool to 107°F in the Hot Minnow Baths. The natural geothermal source emerges at 108°F, allowing pools to be adjusted to different comfort levels.

Can children visit Riverbend Hot Springs? 

The resort accommodates guests ages 12 and older due to the riverside location and quiet ambiance requirements. Two specific private pools make limited exceptions for children ages 5+ who maintain whisper-zone protocols.

Riverbend Hot Springs History

The Apache and Mimbres tribes considered these thermal waters sacred healing grounds for centuries before European settlement. The Pierce family purchased the riverside property in 1945 and constructed Pierce’s Minnows bait shop, which operated over 40 years serving Rio Grande fishermen. 

In 1988, Lee and Sylvia Foerstner purchased the property and converted the minnow tanks into outdoor hot spring pools, officially opening Riverbend in 1990. The three hottest pools, nicknamed the “Hot Minnow Baths,” remain converted from original bait tanks, preserving unique heritage. Today’s Riverbend blends that funky hostel legacy with upscale resort amenities.

Temperature & Weather at Riverbend Hot Springs, Throughout the Year

Truth or Consequences enjoys a high-desert climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually, making Riverbend a year-round destination. The consistent geothermal water temperatures between 95°F and 108°F provide comfortable soaking regardless of season. Summer brings intense heat with temperatures often exceeding 95°F, making evening soaks most pleasant. 

Winter offers mild days averaging 50-60°F with occasional freezing nights, creating magical contrast between cool desert air and steaming pools. Spring showcases wildflowers along the Rio Grande with perfect 70-80°F weather, while fall delivers stunning foliage changes.

Essential List for Visiting Riverbend Hot Springs

Riverbend delivers an exceptional combination of natural beauty, therapeutic soaking, and southwestern hospitality in New Mexico’s high desert. The eight riverside common pools provide varied temperatures from mild 95°F to invigorating 107°F, while seven private pools offer intimate experiences with mountain views. Beyond the springs, Truth or Consequences offers cultural attractions, outdoor recreation at nearby state parks, and fascinating historical sites worth exploring.

1. Soak in the Hot Minnow Baths – Experience the three hottest pools (106-107°F) converted from original 1940s minnow tanks.
2. Visit Geronimo Springs Museum – Explore exhibits on Apache history and geothermal geology just 0.2 miles away.
3. Book a Private Riverside Pool – Reserve a 50-minute session in pools like Zuni or Rio with curtained river views.
4. Explore Elephant Butte Lake State Park – Enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking at New Mexico’s largest reservoir 6 miles north.
5. Experience Downtown Art Galleries – Walk to Rio Bravo Fine Art Gallery and multiple artist studios.
6. Tour Spaceport America – Visit the world’s first commercial spaceport with guided tours 30 miles east.
7. Float the Rio Grande – Arrange kayak trips along calm sections flowing behind the property.
8. Attend Friday Night Art Walk – Join monthly gallery walks featuring live music and artist demonstrations.

Tips for Visiting Riverbend Hot Springs

Proper preparation enhances your Riverbend experience significantly. The resort maintains strict policies ensuring peaceful relaxation, including whisper zones and quiet zones throughout. Arrive pre-showered without lotions, oils, or sunscreen before entering the springs. The mineral-rich waters remain pristine through these cleanliness protocols and visitor cooperation.

Clothing & Footwear:

• Swimsuit – Required for common pools; optional for private pools
• Towel – Bring your own or rent for $3; multiple towels recommended
• Water Shoes – Protect feet on hot stones and provide traction on wet surfaces
• Change of Clothes – Comfortable layers for varying desert temperatures
• Robe – Convenient for moving between pools; rentals available for $8

Comfort & Protection:

• Water Bottle – Essential for hydration during extended soaking; beverages sold on-site
• Sunscreen – Apply before arrival; cannot be worn in pools
• Sunglasses – Protect eyes from intense high-desert sun
• Hat – Wide-brim recommended for daytime poolside relaxation

Food & Personal Items:

• Snacks or Picnic – No on-site restaurant; bring food for courtyard grills
• Cash – Helpful for tips and incidentals
• Camera – Capture stunning riverside and mountain views
• Book or Kindle – Perfect for relaxing between soaking sessions

Things to Do at Riverbend Hot Springs

Riverbend provides the perfect basecamp for exploring southern New Mexico while offering sufficient on-site amenities to never leave if you prefer complete relaxation. The unique riverside location creates opportunities for combining thermal soaking with river activities, desert hiking, and stargazing under incredibly dark night skies far from city light pollution.

1. Alternate Between Pool Temperatures – Progress from mild Sierra Pool (95-101°F) through medium riverside pools to intensely hot Minnow Baths.
2. Enjoy the Riverside Sauna – Complement your hot spring experience with traditional dry sauna sessions.
3. Grill at Outdoor Courtyard Kitchen – Utilize Weber grills and fully equipped outdoor cooking facilities.
4. Photograph Turtleback Mountain Sunsets – Capture spectacular golden-hour views from riverside chaise loungers.
5. Browse Black Cat Books & Coffee – Walk to this independent bookstore-café serving excellent espresso.
6. Dine at Truth or Consequences Brewing Company – Sample craft beers and pub fare downtown.
7. Hike at Caballo Lake State Park – Explore desert trails and rock formations 16 miles south.

Riverbend Hot Springs Hotel: Where to Stay?

Riverbend provides diverse accommodation options catering to different budgets and group sizes. All overnight guests receive complimentary unlimited common pool access during operating hours plus priority booking for private sessions. Dynamic pricing rewards advance weekday bookings with significantly lower rates.

• Sunrise Suites – Luxury 1-2 bedroom suites with private indoor hot spring tubs, gas fireplaces, full kitchenettes, and sunrise mountain views sleeping 2-4 guests with brand-new furnishings creating ultimate romantic retreats.
• Desert Flower Casita – Remodeled 2-bedroom cottage with full kitchen and dedicated 24/7 private hot spring pool sleeping 4 guests located 0.3 miles from main office with private patio and propane grill.
• Mandala Casita – Private cottage with 2 beds, full kitchen, and dedicated ultra-private pool sleeping 4 guests featuring maximum privacy with old west décor and complete seclusion from other guests.
• Triple Suite – Spacious 3-bedroom apartment with full kitchen and southwestern artwork sleeping 6 guests at mid-range pricing, perfect for families needing multiple rooms with steps from common springs.
• Courtyard King Rooms – Comfortable king bed rooms surrounding the artistic courtyard sleeping 2 guests at budget-friendly pricing allowing small leashed dogs for $30/night with walking distance to downtown.
• Artist Rooms – Most affordable cozy retreats with unique artistic flair sleeping 2 guests at budget pricing, each sponsored by local artists whose work is displayed and available for purchase throughout the room.

Where to Eat Near Riverbend Hot Springs?

Truth or Consequences offers excellent dining with multiple restaurants within walking distance. The culinary scene emphasizes authentic New Mexican cuisine, fresh local ingredients, and welcoming family-owned establishments serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout downtown.

• Passion Pie Cafe – American café at 406 Main Street serving breakfast, lunch, and exceptional baked goods rated #1 in town with $8-15 per person pricing, famous for waffles and cherry pies.
• El Faro – Mexican-American restaurant at 315 N Broadway specializing in authentic New Mexican flavors with $10-18 per person pricing voted Best Restaurant in Sierra County four consecutive years.
  
• La Cocina – Family-owned Mexican restaurant serving 30 years featuring red chile and grilled steaks with $12-22 per person pricing and pet-friendly outdoor patio decorated with local artwork.
  
• Pacific Grill – Seafood restaurant offering fresh fish and Asian fusion dishes downtown with $15-28 per person pricing featuring generous portions of shrimp linguini and blue cheese pesto pasta.
  
• Truth or Consequences Brewing Company – Craft brewery with full pub menu downtown at $12-20 per person featuring rotating tap selection, outdoor seating, and live music events throughout the week.
  

Riverbend Hot Springs Camping

Address: 100 Austin Street, Truth or Consequences, NM 87901

Directions:

• From Interstate 25, take Exit 79 onto Business I-25
• Turn right onto Broadway Street through downtown
• Turn right onto Austin Street
• Riverbend entrance on left near Rio Grande riverfront

Riverbend’s six RV spaces provide full hookups including water, electric, sewer connections, and complimentary wireless internet. The riverside camping area features direct access to all eight common hot spring pools, the sauna, and outdoor courtyard with grills. 

Summer temperatures range from 65°F at night to 95°F+ during afternoons. Winter brings mild 50-60°F days with occasional freezing nights around 30°F. Visitors camp here for unlimited hot spring access, stunning Rio Grande scenery, and proximity to Elephant Butte Lake fishing.

Riverbend Hot Springs Reviews: What Do People Think?

Riverbend maintains an impressive 4 out of 5 rating across TripAdvisor, Google, and Yelp with over 2,500 combined reviews praising the authentic riverside experience. Visitors consistently highlight exceptional pool cleanliness, therapeutic quality of odorless mineral water, and breathtaking mountain views. 

The peaceful whisper-zone atmosphere receives particular appreciation from couples and solo travelers. Guests describe it as their “happy place” and frequently rebook before departing, testament to Riverbend’s magnetic appeal.

Is Visiting Riverbend Hot Springs Worth It?

Absolutely yes, Riverbend delivers exceptional value combining authentic geothermal soaking, stunning natural scenery, and peaceful desert ambiance. The unique riverside location provides experiences unavailable at other regional hot springs, particularly the eight temperature-varied pools allowing perfect personalization. 

Couples seeking romantic disconnection, wellness enthusiasts wanting therapeutic mineral immersion, and adventurous travelers exploring New Mexico will all find Riverbend worth the journey. The reasonable pricing makes this desert sanctuary accessible while maintaining upscale atmosphere.

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