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Surrounded by rivers, forested hills, and rugged volcanic terrain, Sacramento isn’t just the capital of California—it’s also a perfect jumping-off point for some of Northern California’s most relaxing geothermal escapes.
Whether you’re after a rustic soak deep in the wilderness, a clothing-optional resort with mountain views, or a serene mineral bath paired with spa treatments and wine country vibes, there’s a hot spring within reach. Most are under 2.5 hours from the city, making them perfect for a rejuvenating day trip or a quiet overnight getaway.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best hot springs near Sacramento, from serene natural pools to full-service wellness retreats. Let’s explore where to soak, unwind, and escape—without having to stray too far from Sactown.
8 Hot Springs Near Sacramento
1. Wilbur Hot Springs, Wilbur Springs (83 Miles)
Wilbur Hot Springs is a tranquil wellness retreat tucked into a private nature preserve in Northern California—just about an hour and a half from Sacramento. The resort is best known for its untreated, undiluted mineral water, which contains nearly three ounces of dissolved minerals per gallon, offering a deeply therapeutic soak in a serene, off-grid setting.
The hot springs feed three long Japanese-style flumes with temperatures ranging from 100°F to 109°F, allowing guests to rotate between different levels of warmth. There’s also a spring-fed swimming pool, a cold plunge, a dry sauna, and several tranquil relaxation areas designed to help you fully unplug from digital life.
Accommodations at Wilbur require a two-night minimum stay, and options include rooms in the historic hotel, solar cabins, and off-grid tent platforms. Reservations are required, and it’s best to book early—especially on weekends and holidays.
2. Golden Haven Hot Springs, Calistoga (87 Miles)
Only 90 minutes from Sacramento, Golden Haven Hot Springs sits right in the heart of Napa Valley—perfect for a rejuvenating escape paired with wine country charm.
The resort offers a range of soaking experiences, from herbal mineral baths to organic mud baths, all using mineral-rich water sourced directly from Calistoga’s underground aquifers. The spa’s signature Total Mud Bath Packageincludes a mud soak, mineral bath, facial mask, and a cool wrap—an immersive ritual ideal for relaxation and detoxification.
Day visitors can access the hot springs by booking any 60-minute or longer spa treatment, which includes complimentary use of the pools, towels, robes, and locker. Overnight guests enjoy free access to the mineral pools throughout their stay. A few standalone day passes may also be available—check with the resort in advance for availability.
Whether you’re soaking for wellness or indulging in a spa day between wine tastings, Golden Haven blends rustic comfort with Napa Valley’s signature relaxation.
3. Steep Ravine Hot Springs, Stinson Beach (100.9 Miles)
Just under two hours from Sacramento, Steep Ravine Hot Springs at Stinson Beach offers a rare chance to soak in natural thermal waters right on the edge of the Pacific Ocean.
Tucked into the rugged coastline near Bolinas Bay, these beachside hot springs are only accessible at low tide, making timing crucial. Be sure to check the local tide charts before heading out, as the springs are fully submerged during high tide.
The springs are located near the Steep Ravine Campground, part of Mount Tamalpais State Park. If you’re looking to stay overnight, the campground offers basic accommodations, including cabins and tent sites with sweeping ocean views.
This is a primitive soaking experience, with no developed facilities, so pack accordingly. The pools are small and naturally formed—often surrounded by curious locals or travelers, especially on weekends—so try to visit early for a more peaceful dip.
Steep Ravine is a one-of-a-kind hot spring that combines mountain, ocean, and geothermal magic in a single, unforgettable setting.
4. Sierra Hot Springs, Sierraville (126.3 Miles)
Sierra Hot Springs is a peaceful retreat located in the town of Sierraville, around two and a half hours from Sacramento. It’s a non-profit resort known for its clothing-optional soaking areas and serene, forested setting.
The soaking options include the Domed Hot Pool, a beautiful mosaic-tiled space with water temperatures up to 110°F. There’s also the Warm Pool, Meditation Pool, and Phoenix Baths, offering guests multiple environments to relax in. All pools are filled with naturally heated mineral water.
The resort sits on 700 acres of meadow and forest, bordering Tahoe National Forest, and offers plenty of nearby hiking and winter cross-country skiing opportunities. On-site lodging includes everything from lodge rooms to dorms and camping.
Sierra Hot Springs promotes a quiet, tech-free environment, making it ideal for a true digital detox. If you’re seeking a low-key, wellness-focused soak surrounded by nature, this is a solid choice.
5. Vichy Springs, Ukiah (148.2 Miles)
Vichy Springs Resort is rich in history and dates back nearly 170 years. Self-described as both a “country inn and a hot springs resort,” Vichy is the ultimate destination for relaxation.
Guests can enjoy the property’s natural alkaline carbonated mineral hot springs, the only ones of their kind in North America, along with an Olympic-size swimming pool, a hot soaking pool, and miles of hiking trails spread across its 700-acre estate. The spring water maintains a soothing temperature of around 90°F and has long been associated with therapeutic benefits — used historically to treat conditions like gout, stomach acidity, rheumatism, and arthritis.
These historic Vichy baths were once frequented by renowned figures such as Mark Twain and Jack London, and continue to attract wellness seekers today. The water’s high alkalinity and gentle effervescence offer a uniquely revitalizing experience.
Vichy Springs is located about two hours and 45 minutes from Sacramento, making it a peaceful countryside retreat from the city.
As of 2025, day-use pricing starts at $45 per person for up to two hours, $65 for three hours, or $100 for a full day. If you’re booking a spa treatment, the all-day rate drops to $55, and includes access to all soaking facilities. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
6. Orr Hot Springs Resort, Ukiah (155.8 Miles)
When it comes to total relaxation, few places deliver like Orr Hot Springs Resort, a clothing-optional retreat nestled in the heart of the Mendocino Coastal Range.
The resort offers several cozy accommodations for those planning an overnight stay — including rooms, yurts, cottages, and even camping options. However, if you’re only visiting for the day, day-use passes are available (though reservations are required). As of 2025, the rate is $50 per person for day use, with access to all soaking facilities.
What makes Orr Hot Springs stand out is its intentional disconnect from modern life — there’s no Wi-Fi or cell service, and the property encourages quiet hours after dark, making it the perfect escape for those needing to unplug and recharge. Massages are also available on-site for an extra dose of relaxation.
Located about three hours from Sacramento, Orr is ideal for a long weekend reset surrounded by serene forest, wildlife, and mineral-rich waters. Just be sure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons — spots fill up quickly.
7. Travertine Hot Springs, Bridgeport (191.6 Miles)
Over four hours from Sacramento, Travertine Hot Springs in Bridgeport isn’t the most convenient for a day trip — but its unique natural features make it well worth the journey.
Travertine is a rare form of terrestrial limestone formed by mineral springs. At this site, the vivid orange and yellow travertine formations create a striking contrast with the rustic desert landscape — perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
There are three rock-bottomed soaking tubs built into the travertine and one small cement tub, all offering scenic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The water temperature averages around 100°F, although it varies seasonally.
The site is free to visit and open year-round, but because of its accessibility and beauty, it tends to draw crowds — especially on weekends. If you’re looking for peace and solitude, try visiting midweek or early in the morning.
Though there are no amenities or formal facilities on-site, dispersed camping is available nearby, and it’s a favorite stop for overlanders and vanlifers exploring the Eastern Sierra.
8. The Inn at Benton Hot Springs, Benton (343.3 Miles)
Home to some of the most natural mineral hot springs in the world, The Inn at Benton Hot Springs is about six and a half hours from Sacramento. While it’s a bit far for a casual day trip, it’s an excellent overnight stop if you’re headed toward the Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Lakes, or Death Valley.
The resort offers 12 private hot tub sites, each fed by geothermally heated spring water and surrounded by trees and desert brush — allowing for a peaceful, clothing-optional soak with full privacy. Each site comes with its own picnic table, fire pit, and barbecue grill, perfect for a relaxed evening under the stars.
Rates vary slightly depending on the site:
- Sites 1, 2, 3, 11 & 12 are $95/night (double occupancy)
- Sites 4 through 10, and 13 are $105/night (triple occupancy)
- Additional guests are welcome for $10 per person
Note: animals are allowed (limit two pets per tub site), but pets may not enter the hot tubs.
Check-in is at 3:00 PM and check-out at 11:00 AM, with no early check-ins or late check-outs permitted. If you’re staying a night or two, be sure to explore the nearby historic Benton cemetery, or venture farther into the high desert to discover the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest — home to the oldest trees on Earth.
