Carson Hot Springs is an easily accessible hot springs located in the heart of Washington, making it one of the most visited hot springs in the country (and the world). However, with so many people visiting Carson every year, it can be difficult to find good information on everything you want to know about this spectacular natural wonder.
From accessing the springs to selecting the right accommodations nearby, here’s your one-stop guide to everything you need to know about Carson Hot Springs Washington!
The small town of Carson, Washington sits about an hour away from Portland, Oregon and many travelers who visit Oregon find themselves in the area on their way to or from Portland and don’t know what to do with their extra time before they reach Portland or after they leave it.
If you’re such a traveler, you should really check out Carson Hot Springs, just 5 minutes outside of town, which happens to be one of the most beautiful and underrated hot springs in the Pacific Northwest. If you like what you see here, please read on to learn more about Carson Hot Springs.
Carson City Hot Springs History
Carson City, Nevada is a landlocked city in western Nevada. Although Carson has one of America’s most famous state capitals, it is not home to a large number of tourist attractions that would make it notable.
That said, Carson does have some unique points of interest including one that is often overlooked – Carson Hot Springs. These hot springs have been drawing visitors for well over a century and for good reason! This hidden gem offers visitors a chance to soak in mineral-rich waters while surrounded by beautiful scenery.
How to Get There
To get to Carson Hot Springs, take US-395 north from Lakeview, Oregon. From US-395, travel east on County Road 789 (Tenmile Road). Follow 789 for approximately three miles until you reach Carson Hot Springs road. Turn right onto Carson Hot Springs Road and continue on for four miles.
You will see a sign for Carson Hot Springs Campground on your left. Continue straight through campground entrance until you see signs for hot springs parking lot on your left. Park in lot and walk down trail to pools.
Where to Stay
If you’re visiting Carson, you have a couple options when it comes to accommodations. There are some local hotels and restaurants that offer lodging, or you can always stay at one of the local campgrounds. If you do want to get away from it all for a few days, there are several cabins available to rent in and around Carson.
One of these is Horseshoe Bend Cabins; set deep in a forest area along Lake Roosevelt and offering spectacular views of Mt. Spokane. Another option is Lakeview Motel & RV Park, which features a wide range of amenities including free Wi-Fi access and cable TV.
Carson Hot Springs Spa Resort
A restorative getaway tucked in Washington’s forest-lined Methow Valley, Carson Hot Springs Spa Resort is a hidden gem in the charming town of Twisp. Nestled among wildflowers and rising granite cliffs, you’ll enjoy a revitalizing soak in these natural mineral waters that soothe body, mind and soul.
After your rejuvenating spa treatment, stroll through our gardens to our private hot springs pools or dine at our award-winning restaurant. Our luxury hotel rooms offer elegant amenities like fireplaces and jetted tubs; many even have private hot springs soaking tubs! We look forward to welcoming you to your new favorite getaway!
What to Do There
One of our favorite things to do in Carson is to go for a hike up to Lake Lenore. While it’s not hard, it can be tiring—and beautiful. Pack a lunch and bring some extra clothes because you might want to stay on Lake Lenore for a while when you get there!
There’s an island off of Lake Lenore that makes a great place for picnics and swimming! If you don’t feel like hiking, there are plenty of trails nearby that are still just as beautiful. We recommend going down to Skookumchuck Falls or up to Mount Constitution (which also has a fun drive leading up to it).
Both hikes have amazing views and make for fantastic photos! If hiking isn’t your thing, we highly recommend going white water rafting with Northwest River Guides (website) which is located right next door.
When to Go
If you’re going to visit Carson Hot Springs, it’s best to plan your trip between July and September. This will help you avoid any seasonal weather events and ensure that there are ample opportunities for family-friendly activities.
During these months, Carson usually receives an average of 10 hours of sunshine per day. Temperatures typically range from a low of 58 degrees Fahrenheit in January to a high of 84 degrees Fahrenheit in August. Although temperatures do vary throughout the year, they rarely drop below freezing or rise above 90 degrees Fahrenheit at night.
Carson Hot Springs Price
Well-maintained, Carson Hot Springs is priced affordably at $13 to $15 per person per day. Clean and safe, we can easily recommend them to anyone who’s traveling through central Washington and needs a place to get some rest.
It doesn’t offer many amenities—just one bathhouse with showers, changing rooms, and restrooms—but if you need somewhere clean to lay your head after exploring central Washington for a few days, it’s an ideal option. While there are several RV parks in or near Waterville (about five miles away), most of them have lackluster reviews; if you need an RV park in or near Waterville, Carson Hot Springs is probably your best bet.
Weather and Safety Tips
When visiting Carson Hot Springs, it’s essential to be prepared for a variety of conditions. Temperatures in Eastern Washington can change rapidly throughout the year, and you should come equipped with layers of clothing that are easy to put on or take off. Always bring sunscreen and use it!
If you’re prone to sunburns, bring extra protection. Proper footwear is a must—you may find yourself climbing up and down steep pathways, so sturdy shoes are key! As always, don’t forget your camera. You won’t want to miss out on snapping photos of your surroundings!
Carson Hot Springs FAQ
Who owns Carson Hot Springs Washington?
Carson Hot Springs resorts is still owned by Cam and Scheratski. Holly Nelson, a massage therapist who formerly worked at Bonneville Hot Springs, and her lawyers, Greg Ferguson and John “Jack” Green, initiated the claim with the EEOC in 2016, a few months after she resigned from her position at Bonneville.
Can you swim in hot springs in Colorado springs?
The shallow pool is ideal for young swimmers and features a water volleyball area, while the activity pool boasts an inflatable obstacle course.
Can you swim in the hot springs in North Carolina?
Yes, you swim in the hot springs in North Carolina.
Are there public hot springs in NC?
There are 12 outdoor mineral baths in modern Jacuzzi-type pools, each offering some privacy.
Final Words
Regardless of whether you take our word for it or do a little Googling, we think you’ll find Carson Hot Springs to be a uniquely relaxing retreat. From its rustic Western charm to its luxurious facilities and pristine natural setting, Carson is truly unlike any other hot springs resort you’ve ever visited.
Give us a call and schedule your visit today; don’t forget your towel! If you ask anyone who has been to both locales, they will tell you that there is no comparison between Carson Hot Springs and similar resorts in town. Unlike other hot springs resorts which can be packed with people at all hours of day and night, Carson has an incredibly low visitor-to-staff ratio.
