Surrounded by mountains and filled with historical buildings, Ogden, Utah is a destination in its own right. Add a short road trip, and you’ll have your pick of first-class hot springs nearby to round out that itinerary.
We’ve made a list of some fantastic hot springs that would make an easy day trip on your next visit to Ogden. Here they are in order of proximity:
Crystal Hot Springs – 34 miles
Located in Honeyville, Utah, Crystal Hot Springs is just a short drive from Ogden. These three large pools–a soaking pool, an Olympic-sized lap pool, and a kids’ area with a grotto–are fed with 120-134℉ (49-57℃) spring water. Then they cooled to safe temperatures by a secondary stream that also runs into it.
It contains the highest mineral content of any springs in the world, but sulfur, and the smell it brings, is not one of them.
The newest pool, Crystal Cavern, is designed for soaking. Water comes to chest level when seated, and umbrellas mounted in the middle of in-water seating areas shade guests from the summer sun. One area offers three small waterfalls–one cold, one hot, and one tepid–pouring into the pool for those who want to experience a contrast of temperatures.
Stunning mountainous views just over the lodge-like, stone facility make this a great place to pitch a tent or rent an RV space. It’s open year-round, so bring the kids! They’ll especially love the two 256-foot waterslides complete with enclosed, heated staircases for those winter days when getting out of the warm water is especially challenging.
Belmont Hot Springs RV Park – 50 miles
Straight north of Ogden, Belmont Hot Springs RV Park sits on wide open spaces with mountains and uninterrupted views for miles in every direction. The large natural hot springs lake and pool sit between a balmy 97℉ and 104℉ (36-40℃).
Belmont, formerly known as Udy Hot Springs, is one of few geared towards RV campers and their needs. Onsite laundry, showers, and a clubhouse with snacks, games, and books add small luxuries that guests especially appreciate when staying long term. Sites can be reserved anywhere from one night to a full six-month season.
There’s no shortage of things to do in the lake and in the area. The hot water is a comfortable place for prospective scuba divers to get PADI certified, particularly in the colder months. There’s also a nine-hole golf course on the property, and it’s a short drive to hiking and biking trails, skiing, fishing, museums, etc.
Inlet Park Hot Springs – 67 miles
Inlet Park Hot Springs, also known as Saratoga Hot Springs, sits near a suburban development and is well-known amongst the locals. While it’s close to civilization and even offers its own parking lot, it feels secluded and–as may be expected–is surrounded by distant snow-capped peaks and tall grasses.
There are two pools, the main option a bit clearer than the muddier one in the back. The high nutrient content in the mud is thought to be particularly healthy for the skin, so either option will leave you feeling revived.
The main pool has an average temperature of 109℉ (43℃). Take a short stroll, and you’ll even have the option of a large lake if you’d like to change things up with a cold water swim.
It may feel like you’re in the wilderness but make no mistake. The property is maintained by the community and is often patrolled by police for added safety and oversight. No camping or overnight stays are allowed near the springs and be sure to vacate before the 10 pm closure time that is vigilantly enforced.
Homestead Crater Hot Springs – 82 miles
For guests looking for a resort vibe, Homestead Crater Hot Springs is the perfect setup. Shaped like a beehive, 55 feet of limestone with a small cenote-like hole at the top hides the mineral-rich water.
Soak up the history of this 90-96℉ (32-36℃) swimming hole 10,000 years in the making. Luckily, a ground-floor tunnel has been drilled through the rock for easy access.
The crater is the biggest draw with self-guided tours and custom-built decks allowing people to get familiar at their own pace. Aside from soaking, guests can snorkel, take paddle board yoga classes, or even scuba dive–lessons are available if desired. With indoor and outdoor pools as well as hot tubs, there is something for everyone.
Outside the pools, evenings can be spent enjoying regular guestrooms and suites as well as individual cottages (affiliate link), from luxurious to resplendent. Most have patios or balconies from which to take in views of the grounds. Several dining options await hungry visitors throughout.
Those who tire of the endless outdoor and mountain sport opportunities in the area can find plenty of physical activity onsite. Golfers can play an 18-hole round on the property, and those with extra energy can hit up the fitness room in the main building. No one will find themselves at a loss for entertainment.
Fifth Water Hot Springs – 108 miles
Also called Diamond Fork Hot Springs, Fifth Water Hot Springs is a bit further away from civilization. Multiple pools of aqua water are formed mainly of large boulders amidst a rugged landscape with rock, forest, and waterfalls. A rustling creek traces the side of the springs.
The sulfurous spring water varies from 111℉ (44℃) closest to the source to under 102℉ (39℃) further down the stream. It’s a relaxing and isolated place to soak, and the well-maintained 2.5-mile trail from the parking area makes it easy to get there. Camping nearby is a popular pastime for those who know about this natural gem.
Whether you’re looking for a resort with all the amenities or a simple pool in the middle of the woods, you’ll find a good fit in one of the hot springs around Ogden. You can’t go wrong in the majestic natural landscape of northern Utah.
The Best Camping near Tallahassee, Florida