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While Sedona is best known for its red rock formations, vortex hikes, and vibrant art scene, it’s also surprisingly close to several natural hot springs scattered across central and southern Arizona. Though there are no hot springs directly in Sedona, a handful of unique soaking spots lie within driving distance — each offering a different experience, from luxury spa retreats to remote, off-the-grid pools.
Whether you’re seeking a scenic mineral soak surrounded by ruins and rivers, a full-service wellness resort, or a rustic campground with desert tubs under the stars, you’ll find some rewarding thermal escapes within 1–4 hours of Sedona. A few springs require hiking or navigating backroads, but the views, solitude, and mineral-rich waters make the journey well worth it.
This guide covers the top hot springs near Sedona, but if you’re planning a broader road trip, don’t miss our full list of Arizona hot springs — including dozens of remote and resort-style locations across the state.
Map of Hot Springs Near Sedona
Hot Springs Near Sedona
1. Verde Hot Springs, Camp Verde (57.4 Miles)
Located just over an hour from Sedona and about 30 miles southeast of Camp Verde, Verde Hot Springs is a legendary off-the-grid soaking spot — and one of Arizona’s most rewarding hidden gems.
These primitive hot springs are tucked away in a remote riverside canyon, accessible only via a rugged 6-mile dirt road followed by a short hike and a river crossing. The journey isn’t easy, but for many visitors, the secluded atmosphere and scenic beauty make it well worth the effort.
There are two main soaking areas. The first is a rock-and-concrete tub partially enclosed by what remains of the original Verde Hot Springs resort, which burned down in the 1960s. The tub holds water around 102°F and features colorful, hand-painted murals on its walls — giving it an almost surreal, artistic vibe. The second soaking area is an open-air pool near the river, usually a bit cooler at around 99°F and offering tranquil views of the surrounding wilderness.
Because the springs sit on the banks of the Verde River, water levels can affect accessibility, especially during spring runoff or winter freezes. For the safest and most enjoyable experience, plan your visit during late summer or early fall.
Dogs are allowed on the trail and at camp, but not in the water. Dispersed camping is permitted nearby, making it a perfect base for an overnight stay in nature.
2. Castle Hot Springs, Morristown (109.3 Miles)
If you’re up for a longer drive from Sedona, Castle Hot Springs in Morristown is the perfect destination for a luxury hot springs escape. Tucked into the rugged Bradshaw Mountains, this resort blends desert beauty, history, and world-class amenities — all centered around its naturally heated mineral pools.
The resort dates back to 1896 and has hosted everyone from U.S. presidents to celebrities. Today, it’s one of Arizona’s most exclusive wellness retreats and was even named a Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards winner in 2022.
Castle Hot Springs features three natural spring-fed pools, set into a secluded canyon lined with palm trees and fed by one of the hottest non-volcanic springs on the planet, with water temperatures reaching up to 120°F. Rich in lithium, magnesium, and bicarbonate, the mineral content is believed to support relaxation, muscle recovery, and mental clarity.
Guests must book an overnight stay to access the pools — the resort does not offer day passes. Reservations are required, with check-ins available only on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
Beyond soaking, guests can enjoy spa services, guided hiking and adventure excursions, yoga, meditation, and horseback riding. Daily tours of the onsite organic farm are also offered, with its produce featured in the property’s Harvest restaurant, creating a true farm-to-table culinary experience.
Whether you’re soaking under the stars or relaxing in one of the private casitas, Castle Hot Springs delivers a completely unplugged and rejuvenating retreat just a couple of hours from Sedona.
3. El Dorado Hot Springs, Tonopah (152.8 Miles)
Located about two and a half hours from Sedona, El Dorado Hot Springs in Tonopah offers a rustic desert soaking experience that’s both unique and surprisingly accessible. It’s also just an hour west of Phoenix, making it a convenient detour if you’re traveling through the central part of the state.
Privately owned and operated, El Dorado features both public and private soaking areas. The natural mineral water flows from an underground geothermal source and maintains an average temperature of around 107°F, although it can vary slightly with the seasons.
Unlike many primitive hot springs, El Dorado is easy to reach via paved roads and has clearly marked access — no hiking or 4x4s required. It’s a great option for those looking to experience natural hot springs without the need for backcountry travel.
The property includes a clothing-optional public pool, as well as several private soaking tubs in the Sunset and Desert View areas. If you’d prefer a more private experience (or to avoid potential nude bathers), booking a private tub is a simple and comfortable option.
El Dorado also offers overnight stays, including simple lodging in Desert Pete’s Bunkhouse, the Mariposa room, or even tent and RV camping in scenic desert surroundings.
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, the hot springs start at $10 for day use, with additional fees for private tubs or overnight accommodations. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick soak or a peaceful overnight stay, El Dorado Hot Springs delivers a relaxing desert escape with no-frills charm.
4. Hot Well Dunes Hot Springs, Safford (278.1 Miles)
Hot Well Dunes Hot Springs is a remote desert soaking spot located in Safford, Arizona, and while it’s more than four and a half hours from Sedona, it can be a worthwhile detour for hot springs enthusiasts—especially if you’re planning a broader southern Arizona adventure.
Tucked away in the Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area, this site is known for its quiet, off-grid atmosphere and unique surroundings. You’ll need to navigate rough backcountry roads to get there, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended—particularly during monsoon season (June through September), when rain can make dirt roads difficult or even impassable.
The facilities are minimal but functional: two basic cement tubs are filled with mineral water from a geothermal source that stays around 106°F. Depending on the season, the water in the tubs may be slightly cooler. The tubs are drained each evening at sunset and refilled each morning, ensuring fresh soaking water daily.
This hot spring is considered more of an “enthusiast” destination, attracting travelers who appreciate the solitude, rustic setting, and the opportunity to soak under open desert skies. It’s especially appealing to those who enjoy camping, off-roading, or exploring sand dunes—and yes, this area was once a prehistoric beach over 2 million years ago!
Visitors can camp onsite, explore the nearby dunes, or simply enjoy a quiet soak. Entry is $3 per vehicle per day, and no permits are required.
If you’re looking for a truly remote, no-frills soaking experience, Hot Well Dunes Hot Springs is a one-of-a-kind stop worth considering.
