15 Best Hot Springs near Sacramento, CA (with Hidden Gems)

While there are no hot springs in Sacramento, there are lots of options in the foothills and the Sierra Nevada Mountains, with some options less than a 1.5 hour from the city.

As many of the closest hot springs to Sacramento are located far apart in some remote areas of California, it’s hard to decide which one is right for your tastes and personal privacy.

Kristel and I love going to the hot springs to relax our muscles after a good hike or for a sunrise dip in the nourishing water. 

We have personally visited each of these hot springs, so we can provide you with all the details and tips to help you pick out the perfect spot for your next adventure.

15 Hot Springs near Sacramento, CA

1. Wilbur Hot Springs

• Location: Williams
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 1:25 hrs, 83 miles
• Type: Natural Hot Springs
• Cost: $59 day use fee (weekdays), $65 day use fee (weekends and holidays)
• Clothing Etiquette: Clothing-optional
• Google Map Location | Website

We found one of the closest hot springs to Sacramento at Wilbur Springs Road while on a short road trip through Cache Creek Canyon and the Capay Valley.

This three-star hotel resort has three geothermal soaking pools with temperatures of 85, 95, and 104°F, along with a swimming pool and a cold plunge.

The bathing areas are clothing optional, which could be pretty uncomfortable for some, especially for first-timers, but we still had a great time with our swimsuits on.

The surrounding nature preserve is also perfect for biking or a quick hike on the many trails that weave amongst the Valley Oaks and Sulphur Creek.

The property doesn’t have wifi or cell service, so we highly suggest downloading an offline map and rescheduling meetings in advance to avoid stress during the stay. 

There is a karma phone available for outbound calls, but other than that, we made this an opportunity to disconnect and connect with what matters the most.

We stayed in a non-air-conditioned room as the facility is solar-powered, so be prepared for the heat if you visit during the summer.

📢LOCAL TIP: This is one of the natural hot springs near Sacramento that requires reservations.

2. Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort

• Location: Calistoga
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 1:45 hrs, 86.1 miles
• Type: Backyard Resort and Mineral Springs
• Cost: varies
• Clothing Etiquette: Clothing-required
• Google Map | Check Availaibility

We instantly knew we would have lots of fun when we walked in at Dr. Wilkinson’s, as everywhere we looked was the perfect spot for that Instagram update.

This hip resort has a retro vibe and offers endless activities, from oversized lawn games like the giant chess board to on-trend dishes like avocado and pumpkin seed toast.

This hot spring near Sacramento has been open since 1952 and is famous for its geothermal mineral pools that range in temperature from 85 to 104°F.

The hottest is an adults-only pool where we enjoyed a tranquil and relaxing soak without the distraction of splashing noisy kids.

They also offer therapeutic volcanic ash mud baths and spa massages to take the relaxation to another level.

For a break from soaking, Dr. Wilkinson’s lies in the heart of Calistoga, where great restaurants, wine bars, tasting rooms, and cafes await just down the street. 

For people who prefer small crowds, plan your visit after summer when the pools are less crowded, and the weather is cooler for soaking in the warm mineral water.

3. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

• Location: Calistoga
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 1:42 hrs, 86.1 miles
• Type: Resort and Spa
• Cost: free for guests who booked rooms
• Clothing Etiquette: Swimsuits Required
• Google Map | Website

If you decide to visit Calistoga Hot Springs, you will be in for an unforgettable luxury experience from the second you arrive at the property. 

They have personalized spa treatments, three pools ranging from 100 to 108° F, and a separate pool for the kids.

While I soothed my muscles in their Swedish massage, my partner tried the mineral mud bath that utilizes natural spring water coming from below the resort.

Calistoga, well-known for its hot springs, is also ideal for exploring wineries and upscale dining, with several options just up the road. 

This prompted us to book a private tasting at Chateau Montelena, one of the famous Napa Valley wineries for beating the French during the Judgment of Paris wine competition.

As the hot spring is in the northern area of this prestigious wine region, the prices align with the other surrounding high-end facilities that deliver an impeccable experience.

📢 LOCAL TIP: The ideal time to visit Napa for a soak in the natural springs is in the fall when there are fewer tourists and the harvest festivities are in full swing.

4. Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa & Resort

• Location: Calistoga
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 1:35 hrs, 87.1 miles
• Type: Natural hot springs and mud baths
• Cost: $118 (Mud bath, mineral bath, cool down wrap) – $309 (with additional 75-min massage)
• Clothing Etiquette: Swimsuits required
• Google Map | Check Availability

Golden Haven is one of the indoor hot springs near Sacramento that I looked forward to visiting the most because of its relaxing destination in the wine country.

The facility is in Calistoga at the north end of the legendary Napa Valley wine region, known for hot springs and the famous mud baths. 

The mud used is made in-house with a mix of clay, peat, and hot mineral water, which could have a distinctive earthy aroma but does not feel muddy. 

Its thick texture may be hard to move around in at first, but once submerged, there was nothing else to do but relax our mind and body. 

An option to book a private in-room mineral bath is available, which is perfect for people who prefer small crowds or a little privacy. 

They also have a pool area heated by hot springs mineral water with a warm, large pool and two jacuzzis with different temperatures. 

We opted to go with one of their special packages, which included a cool-down flannel wrap and a soothing massage that completed the spa experience.

This is a perfect hot springs destination for a special weekend with a loved one, a friend’s road trip, or for some much-deserved time alone.

READ MORE: This post features more Northern California hot springs that you can visit.

5. Harbin Hot Springs

• Location: Middletown
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 2 hrs, 92.9 miles
• Type: Mineral Pool
• Cost: starts at $10 (membership), $35 minimum (day visit)
• Clothing Etiquette: Clothing-optional
• Google Map | Website

Harbin Hot Springs remained resilient after the 2015 Valley Fire, and the natural springs and beautiful property are back in their full glory.

There are eight pools with various temperatures, including cold plunges that are clothing optional, and most people choose to go without.

Spa treatments, from Swedish massage to their signature Watsu® aquatic bodywork, are also available.

This experience is incredibly calming while the therapist gently sways you in the water.

We love that you can bring your tent and camp here, but it does get pretty chilly at night, so be prepared with blankets. 

This is one of the best hot springs near Sacramento that we love visiting, as the vibe here felt very comfortable and relaxed.

Located just 30 minutes north of Calistoga and Napa Valley, it is a much cheaper option than other wine country’s hot springs.

📢 LOCAL TIP: Note that as of July 2023, they have required guests aged 18 and above to purchase a membership starting at $10 for a month’s trial.

6. Sierra Hot Springs and Retreat Center

• Location: Sierraville
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 2:15 hrs, 126 miles
• Type: Hot Spring Tub
• Cost: $5 – $300 (membership rates), $25 – $40 (day use)
• Clothing Etiquette: Clothing-optional
• Google Map | Website

Sierra Hot Springs is a clothing-optional facility where most visitors like to soak naturally in the hot springs and pool area. 

They do require clothing in all other areas of the property, including the lodge and the cafe.

One of the highlights of our stay at this hot spring was stargazing during our night soak in their outdoor meditation pool.

The Temple Dome Area has a hot pool at 105-110°F and a warm pool outside at 98-100°F, while the Phoenix baths have private tubs at 85-90° F.

What we loved most was the rule requiring silence in the soaking areas, which allowed us to have a more tranquil experience.

There are rooms available for rent, but they also have camping options for those who prefer a more rustic experience.

We also dined at the Philosophy Cafe downstairs, where we were able to build our own salad from many fresh and organic ingredients. 

This hot spring is located in the high country, which gets plenty of snow, and is perfect for those planning a winter getaway or as a way to warm up after a day of skiing at one of the ski resorts in Lake Tahoe.

📢 LOCAL TIP: They are open from Wednesday to Sunday and require reservations for all visits.

7. David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort

• Location: Genoa, Nevada
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 2:21 hrs, 130 miles
• Type: Individual Hot Spring Tubs
• Cost: $50
• Clothing Etiquette: Clothing-required
• Google Map | Website

During a short drive from Lake Tahoe, we just happened to stumble across this amazing natural spring resort in Genoa, the oldest town in Nevada.

We took a good soak in one of their hot mineral spring tubs that range from 98 to 104°F.

A heated outdoor swimming pool is also open to all guests, including families with kids under 18, and they require clothing in the spring-fed tubs.

The property feels more like a touristy resort than the usual hot spring places, as the property offers more amenities like an old-style saloon built in 1862. 

David Walley’s is also a great winter snow getaway as the resort is just a short drive from South Lake Tahoe, where you can hit the slopes at Heavenly or any of the ski resorts on the way from Sacramento.

There are also some great spots to eat, like local microbreweries and restaurants, which are also available around the area. 

This is an excellent option for anyone looking to experience soaking in natural spring water but are not ready for the more natural version where clothing may be optional. 

8. Feather River Hot Springs

• Location: Twain
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 2:29 hrs, 130 miles
• Type: Natural Hot Springs
• Cost: $10 (members) and $20 (non-members) for a 2-hour soak
• Clothing Etiquette: Swimsuits are required during daylight hours
• Google Map Location | Website

This small, rustic resort in Northern California is located at the Feather River Canyon and is a popular stop for people heading to Lake Almanor.

We had a short walk from the campgrounds before reaching the natural hot springs on the river.

Bringing headlamps or flashlights is recommended, but other flammable options, like candles, campfires, BBQs, etc., are not allowed to protect the property from any cause of fire.

As the small soaking tubs can only accommodate a few people at a time, we had to make a reservation 24 hours in advance. 

If you plan to visit on a weekend, you will need to text them 48 hours ahead, especially during the busier parts of the summer travel season.

There is a noticeable odor from the sulfur-rich hot springs, but we still enjoyed a relaxing soak in the tubs with temperatures 99 to 104° F and took alternate dips in the river.

This is one of the natural hot springs near Sacramento that feels secluded, and it’s right next to a river.

 📢LOCAL TIP: If you are planning a road trip from Plumas National Forest, you can stay the night, as they have cabins available for rent and RV spots with full hookups.

9. Carson Hot Springs Resort

• Location: Carson City, Nevada
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 2:32 hrs, 134 miles
• Type: Resort
• Cost: $7.50 – $17 (2-hr rate for outdoor pools), $10 – $30 (2-hr indoor + outdoor)
• Clothing Etiquette: Swimsuits Required (outdoor pools), clothing-optional (indoor private pool)
• Website | Book Here

The facility is one of the most accessibly priced hot springs near Tahoe, with very reasonable rates for two hours in one of their private tubs or in their communal pools. 

Our trip to the resort took us less than 30 minutes from Lake Tahoe, and we were soaking in some of the best mineral water in the Sierras. 

Learn from our mistake and arrive early, as they do not take reservations and follow a first-come, first-served basis for walk-in visitors.

As it can get quite hot from soaking during the warm summer days, we recommend visiting from Fall to Spring or visiting when they first open.

The facility is also perfect for warming up after skiing or snowboarding in the cold winter months.

We tried the nearby restaurant, Sassafras Eclectic Food Joint, and grabbed a four-pack from Shoe Tree Brewing, which shares the same parking lot.

LOCAL TIP: Find out the best stops when driving from Sacramento to Reno in this post.

10. Mercey Hot Springs

• Location: Firebaugh
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 2:21 hrs, 154 miles
• Type: Individual Hot Spring Tubs
• Cost: $50 (half day use, 12pm to 5pm)
• Clothing Etiquette: clothing-optional and clothing-required
• Google Map Location | Website

This hidden gem in Firebaugh greeted us with gorgeous views of the Panoche Hills from their natural hot tubs that range in temperature from 102 to 106° F.

Their two main soaking areas are separated with a choice of clothing-optional and clothing-required tubs. 

A dry sauna, massage, and seasonal yoga sessions are also available for additional therapeutic experience.

We only stayed for a day, but they have many unique options for those planning to stay the night, including rental cabins, RV sites, airstreams, and an area to camp out under the tamarisk trees with the long-eared owls.

We were also thrilled about seeing the wild bunnies that roam around the surrounding area.

You can also go for a breathtaking hike around the surrounding Panoche Hills, which is extra beautiful in spring when the wildflowers are in bloom, which adds a touch of color to the views.

This may not be the closest hot springs to Sacramento, but it’s a good place to visit if you’re heading to the Bay area.

11. Orr Hot Springs Resort

• Location: Ukiah
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 2:55 hrs, 156 miles
• Type: Natural Hot Springs
• Cost: $50 per person
• Clothing Etiquette: Clothing-Optional
• Google Map Location | Website

This small resort is located midway between Ukiah and Mendocino and is worth the drive down the long, windy roads for a couple of tranquil days of soaking in the hot springs. 

This hot spring is a clothing-optional facility with various options to choose from for a soak. 

They have private tubs, covered ones, and even outdoors, but our personal favorite was the upper deck, where we had a great time soaking under the star-studded skies.

A dry sauna, steam room, and cold plunge are also available for some extra TLC.

The place has a rustic vibe, including its lodging facilities that range from yurts to small cottages.

They do not serve or sell food but have a large communal kitchen filled with pots, pans, dishware, cutlery, and glasses.

There is no wifi or cell phone reception at the site, and the nearest stores and restaurants are 12 miles away, so remember to bring food and cooking supplies.

Our favorite part of our stay was hiking to the Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve, where we could walk among the giant Coastal Redwoods, which are the tallest trees in the world.

12. Vichy Springs Resort and Inn

• Location: Ukiah
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 2:36 hrs, 160 miles
• Type: Mineral Springs
• Cost: $35 – $85
• Clothing Etiquette: Swimsuits required
• Google Map Location | Website

Established in 1854, this almost 170-year-old historic resort is known for its mineral springs and visits by historic figures, including authors Jack London and Mark Twain. 

They have unique champagne tubs where we were able to experience the little bubbles covering our bodies as we soaked into the naturally carbonated waters. 

They claim these healing waters can cure many ailments, but we know that they made our skin feel soft after the relaxing dip. 

One thing that caught us off guard was that the water is lukewarm, unlike other hot springs where the temperatures can be well over 100° F.

Other activities include indulging in their massage packages, a nature walk to the Chemisal Falls, or visiting several wineries nearby in the up-and-coming Ukiah Valley Wine Region.

📢 LOCAL TIP: This is one of the hot springs close to Sacramento that require bathing suits, so come prepared. 

13. Travertine Hot Springs

• Location: Bridgeport
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 3:32 hrs, 184 miles
• Type: Natural Hot Springs
• Cost: Free
• Clothing Etiquette: Clothing-optional
• Google Map Location

Unlike the other hot springs on this list, Travertine Hot Springs is an all-natural geothermally heated pool that is free and open to everyone. 

Located 30 minutes north of Mono Lake along Highway 395, these hot springs near Mammoth Lake provide a perfect place for a stopover along this long stretch of desert road.  

Our favorite part about a visit to Travertine is that you can take in the breathtaking view of the stunning Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains from the natural tubs.

While the hot springs are clothing-optional, we felt more than comfortable keeping our swimsuits on. 

It’s important to note that the area has no facilities and can get jam-packed during weekends and holidays.

The land surrounding the hot spring is on Federal BLM land, which means that you can free camp for the night before heading south to explore the gorgeous lakes in Mammoth.

Although this requires a bit of a drive, this is one of the few public hot springs near Sacramento that is free of charge.

14. Benton Hot Springs

• Location: Benton
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 4:43 hrs, 254 miles
• Type: 12 Hot Tub sites
• Cost: starts at $85/night (double occupancy)
• Clothing Etiquette: Clothing-optional
• Google Map Location | Website

Located close to the California-Nevada border is a facility with twelve unique tubs with individual designs that can accommodate four to eight people. 

They don’t offer day use of the facilities or the hot tubs, so guests must stay overnight to soak.

The good news is that this is the perfect place to stay near Mammoth, and each campsite has its own personal hot tub.

Each tub site includes a picnic table, a fire grill, a pit, a space for an RV or a tent, and a private hot tub with adjustable temperature. 

It’s a non-sulfur hot spring, which means there is no smell, so you won’t wake up in your tent smelling like rotten eggs.

We loved the calming and private experience as fences and cottonwood trees separated each tub site.

It’s a perfect hideout for those like us who are not very comfortable in the nude at shared hot springs.

From Mammoth Lakes, reaching the hot springs will take an approximately 45-minute drive for a day trip for those staying in the mountain town.

📢 LOCAL TIP: Benton Hot Springs is a perfect base for camping near Mammoth Lakes, where you can relax your sore muscles after a long day of hiking and exploring Devil’s Postpile.

15. Franklin Hot Springs

• Location: Paso Robles
• Drive Time/Distance from Sacramento: 4 hrs, 267 miles
• Type: Man-made natural pool
• Cost: $8 – $10 (All day pass)
• Clothing Etiquette: Swimsuits Required
• Google Map Location | Website

Franklin Hot Springs is a family-owned hot spring that is essentially a pond with piped-in mineral spring water, which is perfect for people of all ages.

The pool sits at around 100°F, which is just the right temperature for us, which meant we were able to have a long, good soak. 

This is one of the most affordable California hot springs on this list, with pricing ranging from $8 to $10 for a day pass.

Because of their low prices and its close proximity to the city of Paso Robles, it can get pretty busy on weekends and holidays.

Tent and RV camping is also available at $20 to $30, including the admission fee for a two-night maximum stay.

It may not be for people who get weirded out by mud and algae, but there are plenty of other things to do apart from soaking, like fishing, boating, or just appreciating its wildlife and scenic views.

Hot Springs Near Sacramento Map

Guide to Visiting the Sacramento Hot Springs

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit hot springs near Sacramento is in the Spring or in the Fall.

Summers in many parts of California can be scorching hot, especially in areas surrounding Sacramento, making soaking in a hot spring less appealing. 

Winter can also be challenging, as many of the hot springs are in remote mountainous areas that can easily be cut off by snow storms.

Although soaking during the chilly winter months is a great way to warm up after a day of skiing or snowboarding. 

LOCAL TIP: If you’re looking for a good soak but don’t feel like driving to the hot springs, check out this amazing bathhouse in downtown Sacramento.

Practical Tips

• Learn the clothing etiquette

California hot springs can either be a clothing-optional or a clothing-required facility. 

Knowing this information helps avoid culture shock when you arrive at the property, especially for first-timers or more conservative ones.

Many visitors have several reasons why they prefer to go natural, even in public soaking areas.

Some individuals prefer to soak in the nude to let the body absorb the springs’ benefits entirely or to have a sense of freedom.

• Stay Hydrated

Being soaked in the water does not mean you don’t need to hydrate yourself.

The hot springs’ high temperatures and mineral content cause your pores to open and start sweating. 

It may not be noticeable in the water, but the more you sweat, the faster you’ll get dehydrated.

Taking breaks between soaks to drink water and regulate your body temperature is very important.

• Leave no trace

It only takes a quick minute to grab and pick up your trash. 

Leaving biodegradable items behind may look okay, but even natural waste, like orange peels, may take a while to decompose.

This “pack it in, pack it out” principle is fundamental to protecting our local environment and natural hot springs.

If you see a piece of trash that someone left, pack it out as a good gesture that will make you feel good and keep nature looking beautiful.

Different Types of Hot Springs near Sacramento, CA

• Natural Hot Springs – a spring produced when water is heated geothermally below by either shallow magma, in volcanic areas, or when the groundwater flows through faults and comes in contact with hot rocks deep below

• Hot Spring Tub – These are manmade tubs that facilitate hot spring-like features by redirecting natural hot spring water flow. By using a tub, water temperature and flow can be easily controlled to maintain consistency, which is why this feature is commonly found in resorts or resort spas

• Mineral Pools – These are pools filled with hard water, which is water that contains dissolved minerals. Mineral pools are not necessarily naturally heated, unlike natural hot springs. Their main draw is the health benefits that one can get from soaking in its mineral-rich waters.

FAQs

Where are the natural hot springs near Sacramento?

Natural hot springs near Sacramento are scattered mainly around Calistoga, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and the outskirts north of Ukiah.

These hot springs range from free options on BLM land with no amenities to resorts with modern restaurants and full-service spas. 

While a few of the choices of hot springs near Sacramento are free, others require an overnight stay to use the facilities and soaking tubs.

Bottom Line: Natural Hot Springs near Sacramento 

Now that you have picked out the perfect hot Springs near Sacramento, CA, all you have to do is pack your tent or RV and get on the road.

Don’t forget a towel and your swimsuit unless you plan to go all-natural. Now have a fun road trip and enjoy your time soaking in the soothing mineral-rich water.