The Lone Star State is a popular tourist destination thanks to its vibrant cities, historical wonders, and world-class BBQ.
With so many sites and monuments to visit, travel itineraries to Texas can often become filled with fun and engaging activities as visitors scramble to see it all. However, the state can also be a destination of relaxation and serenity and features a small selection of natural hot springs.
While hot springs are more abundant in Texas' western state neighbors, there are still a handful of these thermal pools that have reached into its borders, as well as a further collection of warm and cold spring offerings.
Whether seeking a soak after exploring the state's intrepid landscapes or planning a weekend retreat focused on relaxation and wellness, this is everything you need to know about Texas hot springs.
Texas Hot Springs Map
Texas Hot Springs Regions
Since thermal pools depend on the natural heating processes beneath the earth's surface, hot springs typically only form in areas with high geothermal activity.
In Texas, there are two specific regions where these activities are apparent and where hot springs are abundant.
Select a region below to explore the best soaking spots.
Hot Springs in Central Texas Near Austin
Texas’ major hot springs region is centered around Austin and the surrounding Hill Country, where visitors can find a mix of urban and natural geothermal pools.
Barton Springs Municipal Pool, located within Zilker Park, is one of Austin’s most iconic swimming spots, with its clear, spring-fed waters maintaining a steady 68°F year-round.
Jacob's Well Natural Area offers one of the deepest underwater caves in Texas, though swimming is currently suspended due to low water levels.
Krause Springs provides a lush, family-friendly retreat with natural pools and waterfalls set beneath towering cypress trees.
| Hot Spring | Type | Location | Opening Hours | Cost & Permits | Planning a Visit? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barton Springs Municipal Pool | Community | Check Texas Hot Springs Map | Daily: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Closed Thursdays 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM for cleaning |
Adults: $9, Seniors: $5, Children: $4 | Get all the essential information on Barton Springs Pool soon. |
| Jacob’s Well Natural Area | Primitive | Check Texas Hot Springs Map | Daily: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Free entrance for hiking. Swimming currently suspended. |
Get all the essential information on Jacob’s Well Natural Area soon. |
| Krause Springs | Community | Check Texas Hot Springs Map | Summer: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Off-season: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Adults: $9, Children (4–11): $6 Camping available for additional cost |
Get all the essential information on Krause Springs soon. |
Hot Springs in Western Texas
The western region of Texas, along the Mexico border, is home to some of the state’s most secluded hot springs, and one of the most beautiful hot spring resorts.
Chinati Hot Springs is a private resort in the Chihuahuan Desert, providing a remote soaking experience with natural geothermal pools and rustic accommodations.
| Hot Spring | Type | Location | Opening Hours | Cost & Permits | Planning a Visit? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chinati Hot Springs | Resort | Check Texas Hot Springs Map | 24 hours for overnight guests | Day use: $20/person (when available) Lodging rates vary |
Get all the essential information on Chinati Hot Springs soon. |
| Capote Springs | Primitive | Check Texas Hot Springs Map | Open year-round; daylight hours recommended | Small fee required No permits needed |
Get all the essential information on Capote Springs soon. |
| Boquillas Hot Springs | Primitive | Check Texas Hot Springs Map | Open year-round; daylight hours recommended | Free access Park entrance fee required (Big Bend NP) |
Get all the essential information on Langford Hot Springs soon. |
The Best Texas Hot Springs
Boquillas Hot Springs
Also known as Langford Hot Springs, this primitive pool in Big Bend National Park sits along the Rio Grande, surrounded by 100-year-old ruins. Water temperatures average 105°F, with nearby camping available.
Krause Springs
Just outside Austin, this lush 115-acre retreat features 32 natural and man-made spring-fed pools averaging 70°F. Though not hot, it’s ideal for swimming, picnics, and overnight camping.
Chinati Hot Springs
Located in the remote Chihuahuan Desert, this private resort offers geothermal pools (104–109°F), desert cabins, and access to scenic hiking trails. Overnight guests only; no walk-ins allowed.
Types of Texas Hot Springs
Texas has six public hot springs, each shaped by its location and level of development. In West Texas, hot springs like Langford Hot Springs and Chinati Hot Springs provide remote, natural soaks in the desert, while in Central Texas, developed springs like Barton Springs and Krause Springs offer family-friendly swimming in lush surroundings.
Select a type below to explore the different soaking styles available.
Primitive Hot Springs in Texas
Texas has three primitive hot springs, each offering a unique natural soaking experience. In West Texas, Boquillas Hot Springs sits along the Rio Grande in Big Bend National Park, surrounded by desert landscapes and historic ruins. Nearby, Capote Springs provides a secluded, lesser-known soak, requiring a small access fee.
In Central Texas, Jacob’s Well Natural Area is a rare karst spring, though swimming is currently suspended due to low water levels. While not a traditional hot spring, its deep underwater cave system makes it one of the most visually striking geothermal features in the state.
These primitive pools are completely undeveloped, with no facilities or regulations, making them free or low-cost alternatives to resort and community hot springs. However, visitors should be prepared for changing water levels, limited accessibility, and rugged terrain.
Community Hot Springs in Texas
Texas has two community hot springs, both located in Central Texas, offering a mix of natural beauty and basic amenities.
Barton Springs Municipal Pool, located in Austin’s Zilker Park, is one of the most famous spring-fed pools in the state. The three-acre swimming area maintains a cool 68°F year-round, making it a popular escape from the Texas heat. While not geothermally heated, it remains a natural mineral-rich spring, with a small admission fee (Adults: $9, Seniors: $5, Children: $4).
Krause Springs, set in the Texas Hill Country, features multiple spring-fed pools, including a man-made swimming area and a more natural, creekside soak. The site is privately owned, with camping available for overnight stays, making it a popular weekend retreat.
Unlike primitive springs, these community pools offer restrooms, changing areas, and maintained swimming areas, making them more accessible while still providing a natural soak.
Hot Spring Resort in Texas
Texas has only one hot spring resort, Chinati Hot Springs, located in West Texas near the Chinati Mountains. This secluded retreat offers private soaking tubs and communal hot springs, along with rustic cabins for overnight stays.
Unlike the undeveloped primitive springs, Chinati Hot Springs provides basic comforts, including onsite lodging, maintained pools, and limited spa services. While it lacks the full-scale luxury of larger resorts, it remains a favorite for visitors seeking a quiet escape in a remote desert setting.
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