Sierra Hot Springs

Sierra Hot Springs sits on a non-profit retreat property in Sierraville, where a forested hillside gives way to an alpine valley. The draw is natural spring water, piped into outdoor pools that the site describes as notably smooth and warm, long regarded by Indigenous Peoples in the area as a healing site.

Access runs on a fixed schedule rather than casual walk-ins. Day Use passes are bookable Thursday through Sunday, 10:30am to 5:30pm, with the fee staying the same no matter when guests arrive. Evening Soak passes run Wednesday through Sunday, 4:00pm to 11:00pm, also at a flat rate. The property is closed entirely on Mondays and Tuesdays, and every visitor needs an advance reservation plus a valid pass — drop-ins aren't accommodated.

Beyond soaking, the center offers overnight options: rooms in the Main Lodge or Globe Hotel, and tent, car or RV camping (no hookups, and open flames, candles, incense and cook stoves are banned). Room and camping guests get pool access from 2pm on arrival day until 2pm on departure day. A cafe is on-site, and massage and Watsu bodywork appointments can be booked for Thursday through Sunday by calling ahead.

This is a moderate-priced, adults-only retreat built around a slower pace and a reservation system rather than spontaneous visits, so anyone planning a trip should book soaking, lodging or treatments before heading out.