Camping might not be the most relaxing way to vacation: as trivial as hitting up a dump station or setting up your own tent might seem, it does require a little extra effort. But a super-relaxing camping trip might be more do-able than you thought... if you hit up one of these hot springs resorts with campsites! Camping out at a hot spring has another awesome advantage, beyond being cheap and cozy: you can soak in the pools under the stars-- because there's nothing like stargazing from a natural mineral spring!
Granite Hot Springs: Tucked away in the mountains of Jackson, Wyoming, Granite Hot Springs comes with two pools (one man-made, the other natural) filled with warm, mineral-rich spring water, as well as a campsite. There's also hiking in the Gros Ventre Mountains and fishing in Granite Creek.
"Granite Hot Springs" — Photo Credit: m01229
The stunning Grand Teton National Park is only about an hour's drive away... imagine taking a soak in the healing springs after an intense day of hiking the the Tetons!
Mystic Hot Springs: There are several bathtubs placed around the property of Mystic Hot Springs (some are known for their super hot water, others have incredible views of the surrounding landscape) as well as two pools-- one shallow and one deeper. The place is super quirky, and it's almost like the 1960's never left: "Mystic Mike", who owns the place, can give you a "transfloatation" massage, and don't be surprised if a musician sets up near the tubs to perform an acoustic set while you unwind! They've got tons of camping as well, and if you didn't bring your tent or RV, you can stay in one of their cabins or converted buses!
Norris Hot Springs: The springs here are fed by "The Water of the Gods", which is a series of artesian springs that produce naturally-heated water at a rate of 60 gallons per minute. You can enjoy the Water of the Gods for yourself in their 38,000 gallon pool, which is drained each night to keep the water super fresh. They have an onsite restaurant with a delicious and locally-sourced menu of tasty treats, and a campsite that can accommodate tents and RVs. They also feature live music from time to time, so you can enjoy it while you relax.
Grover Hot Springs State Park: This hidden gem of a park is tucked away in the High Sierras near Lake Tahoe. Here, you'll find a bathhouse and two large concrete pools (one hot, the other cold) perfect for taking a dip, as well as several hiking trails (which have some fun rock scrambling and a lovely waterfall to discover) and a campsite. Bonus: the drive up to this park is absolutely stunning!
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort: Just when you thought Olympic National Park couldn't get any more awesome! Here, you'll find three mineral hot spring-fed pools of varying temperatures, plus on cool freshwater pool. Plus, the resort has everything you need for an ultra-relaxing camping trip: a poolside restaurant (among other dining options), massage therapists, gorgeous views, a convenience store, an RV park, and tons more. You might not want to camp anywhere else after a stay here!
Ready to get steamy? Grab your friends and family, hop in the RV, and go!
