State Park
★ Featured
72–76°F
Toyahvale, TX3,040ft
Balmorhea State Park
World's Largest Spring-Fed Swimming Pool in West Texas
4.7(3,120)
Day UseFamily Friendly+2
"Soak on the Rio Grande with Mexico just across the river — a true Texas border wilderness experience."
About This Location
Big Bend Hot Springs is one of the most dramatically situated natural hot springs in the United States. Located within Big Bend National Park in the remote Trans-Pecos region of West Texas, the spring emerges at the bank of the Rio Grande — with Mexico just across the river. The natural rock pool maintains 100–105°F year-round and offers an extraordinary wilderness soaking experience surrounded by Chihuahuan Desert scenery. Access requires a 0.5-mile walk from the parking area.
History
The hot springs at Big Bend have been used by indigenous peoples for thousands of years. In the early 1900s, J.O. Langford developed a health resort here, believing the waters had curative properties. The ruins of his bathhouse still stand adjacent to the main spring. The NPS has managed the site since Big Bend National Park was established in 1944.
Pools & Soaking Areas
105°F
Rio Grande Hot Spring
Natural rock pool on the bank of the Rio Grande, with Mexico's Sierra del Carmen mountains directly across the river. Fits 8–10 people.
100°F
Historic Bathhouse
Ruins of a 1900s bathhouse with a small soaking pool, located 100 yards from the main spring.
Mineral Content
SodiumChlorideSulfateCalcium
Amenities
Day UseCamping / RV
Insider Tip
The spring is best at dawn or dusk when the desert light is golden and the temperature is comfortable. Summer daytime temperatures in Big Bend regularly exceed 110°F — plan your visit for early morning or late evening. The drive to the springs on River Road is rough but passable for most vehicles.
SOAKER REVIEWS
4.5
2 reviews
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TrailBear_CO
· Winter
Absolutely worth the drive
Big Bend Hot Springs exceeded every expectation. The water temperature was perfect and the setting is stunning. We arrived early to beat the crowds — highly recommend doing the same.
SoakSeekerSarah
· Winter
Great soak, busy on weekends
Loved the mineral pools and the views. It does get crowded on Saturday afternoons so try to go mid-week if you can. Staff was friendly and the facilities were clean.
