Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Virginia is home to a treasure trove of natural hot springs.
With temperatures ranging from 98 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, these geothermal wonders offer a unique and rejuvenating experience.
From the serene Bath County to the picturesque Jefferson Pools, each hot spring boasts its own charm and therapeutic benefits.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at seven of the best natural hot springs in and around Virginia. Together, we’ll explore what makes each one special. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to the area, these hot springs are not to be missed.
1. Jefferson Pools
The Jefferson Pools, located in Warm Springs, Virginia, are a pair of historic mineral water hot springs that have been attracting visitors for centuries.
The two natural springs, named the Warm Springs and the Healing Springs, are enclosed in two separate octagonal wooden buildings that have become iconic landmarks in the area.
The Warm Springs, with a temperature of 98 degrees Fahrenheit, have been in use since the mid-1700s. And it were frequented by historical figures such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
The Healing Springs, which have a temperature of 106 degrees Fahrenheit, were discovered later in the early 1800s.
Moreover, the healing properties of the mineral waters at the Jefferson Pools have been known for centuries. They are said to aid in the treatment of various ailments, including arthritis and rheumatism.
The mineral water at the Warm Springs is high in sulfur and magnesium. On the other hand, the Healing Springs are rich in iron.
The buildings housing the hot springs are also significant from a historical and architectural perspective.
The octagonal design is unique and was popularized in the late 1700s by architect Thomas Jefferson, who used the design for the Virginia State Capitol building.
The Jefferson Pools have undergone several renovations and restorations over the years to maintain their historic character and integrity.
Today, visitors can enjoy a soak in the mineral waters and bask in the serene surroundings of the Bath County area.
The Jefferson Pools are open year-round, and visitors can purchase admission to the springs for a nominal fee.
The springs are also available for private rental and can be a unique venue for events or gatherings.
So, whether you are seeking relaxation or history, the Jefferson Pools offer an unforgettable experience.
2. The Omni Homestead Resort
The Omni Homestead Resort is a historic and luxurious resort located in Hot Springs, Virginia.
With a history dating back over 250 years, the resort is situated on 2,300 acres of scenic Virginia countryside and boasts world-class amenities and services.
The resort is best known for its natural hot springs. And it was discovered in the late 1700s and have been a major attraction ever since.
The natural hot springs feed the resort’s iconic Jefferson Pools, which are enclosed in historic octagonal wooden buildings and offer guests a unique and relaxing experience.
In addition to the hot springs, the Omni Homestead Resort offers a wide range of activities and amenities.
The resort features two championship golf courses, a spa, multiple restaurants and bars, and a ski slope. Along with those features, there is a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.
Moreover, the resort also offers a variety of accommodations to suit every need. From classic guest rooms and suites to private cottages and homes, you can surely relax.
All rooms and suites are elegantly appointed and feature modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, and plush bedding.
In addition, the Omni Homestead Resort is a popular venue for weddings, meetings, and special events.
Amazingly, the resort features over 72,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space. It includes a grand ballroom, conference rooms, and scenic outdoor venues.
The resort has undergone several renovations and updates over the years to maintain its historic character. That’s why, it can keep up with modern standards of luxury and comfort.
Today, the Omni Homestead Resort remains one of the premier destinations in Virginia. Offering an unparalleled experience for guests, it can guarantee total relaxation, recreation, or celebration.
3. Alum Springs
Alum Springs is a natural hot spring located in Rockbridge County, Virginia.
The spring is named for the high concentration of alum, a natural mineral, in the water.
The mineral water is believed to have healing properties. It is is said to help alleviate a variety of ailments, including skin conditions and arthritis.
Moreover, the history of Alum Springs dates back to the early 1800s. It was discovered by a local resident who was seeking relief from rheumatism.
The spring soon became a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking the healing powers of the mineral water.
Today, Alum Springs is open to the public and offers a unique and relaxing experience. The spring is housed in a small brick building and is surrounded by a lush forested area.
Visitors can access the spring via a wooden boardwalk that leads to the entrance of the building.
The water at Alum Springs is naturally heated to a temperature of approximately 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Hence, it has a perfect temperature for soaking.
The building housing the spring has undergone several renovations over the years to maintain its historic character. No wonder it can provide modern amenities such as changing rooms and benches for visitors.
In addition to the hot spring, Alum Springs also features several hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forested area.
Essentially, the trails offer visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area. There, you can experience the tranquility of the Virginia wilderness.
Overall, Alum Springs is a unique and historic destination that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the healing powers of natural mineral water in a serene and peaceful setting.
Whether seeking relief from physical ailments or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Alum Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Virginia.
4. Bolar Springs
Bolar Springs is a natural hot spring located in Bath County, Virginia, near the border with West Virginia.
The spring is situated in a remote and picturesque location in the George Washington National Forest. It is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts.
The water at Bolar Springs is naturally heated to a temperature of approximately 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, it is known for its high mineral content.
The mineral water is said to have healing properties. Many believes it can aid in the treatment of various ailments, including arthritis and rheumatism.
Access to Bolar Springs is via a hiking trail that leads through the scenic forested area.
The trail is approximately two miles long and is considered to be moderately difficult. It has several steep sections and uneven terrain.
Moreover, the trail offers visitors an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area and to enjoy the tranquility of the Virginia wilderness.
Once in the spring, visitors can relax and soak in the mineral water, which is enclosed in a small concrete pool.
The pool is surrounded by natural rock formations and offers a peaceful and serene setting for visitors to enjoy.
Bolar Springs is located near several other natural attractions in the area. For example, you can go to nearby Lake Moomaw, which offers a range of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
The surrounding forested area also offers opportunities for camping and wildlife viewing.
Bolar Springs is a unique and natural destination that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the healing powers of mineral water in a remote and scenic location.
5. White Sulphur Springs
New River White Sulphur Springs is a natural hot spring located in West Virginia.
The spring is situated along the banks of the New River, the oldest river in North America. It has been a popular destination for over two centuries.
Amazingly, the water at New River White Sulphur Springs is naturally heated to a temperature of approximately 103 degrees Fahrenheit. It is rich in minerals, including sulfur, which is known for its healing properties.
Like most natural hot springs, the water in White Sulphur Springs is believed to aid in the treatment of various ailments, including arthritis, skin conditions, and respiratory problems.
Moreover, the access to the spring is via a hiking trail that leads through a forested area along the banks of the New River.
The trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and is considered to be moderately difficult. Expect several steep sections and uneven terrain.
Along the trail, visitors can enjoy scenic views of the river and the surrounding wilderness.
In the spring, visitors can relax and soak in the mineral water, which is enclosed in a small concrete pool.
The pool is surrounded by natural rock formations and offers a peaceful and serene setting for visitors to enjoy.
New River White Sulphur Springs is located near several other natural attractions in the area, including the nearby Cascades Waterfall and the Appalachian Trail.
The area also offers opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Overall, New River White Sulphur Springs is a unique and natural destination. This is where you experience the healing powers of mineral water in a scenic and peaceful setting.
6. Berkeley Springs
Berkeley Springs is a historic spa town located in Morgan County, West Virginia. You can locate it just a few miles from the Virginia state line.
The town is known for its natural mineral springs, which were believed to have healing powers by the Native Americans. Later, it became a popular destination for wealthy colonial settlers.
The mineral water at Berkeley Springs is naturally heated to a temperature of approximately 74 degrees Fahrenheit and is rich in minerals, including sulfur, magnesium, and calcium.
The water is believed to have therapeutic properties that can help to relieve stress, ease muscle tension, and improve overall health and well-being.
Visitors to Berkeley Springs can enjoy a variety of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and hydrotherapy baths, which use the natural mineral water.
The town also offers a range of cultural and recreational activities, including live music performances, art galleries, and outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
In addition to its natural springs, Berkeley Springs is home to several historic landmarks and attractions, including the Berkeley Springs State Park, which features a historic Roman bathhouse, and the George Washington Bathtub, a natural spring that was visited by George Washington in 1748.
The town also hosts several annual festivals and events, including the Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting, the Apple Butter Festival, and the Festival of Light Parade.
Berkeley Springs is a charming and historic destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities.
All in all, whether seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, or adventure, Berkeley Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Virginia-West Virginia region.
7. Warm Springs
Warm Springs is a small town located in Bath County, Virginia, known for its natural hot springs and historic landmarks.
The town is situated in the Allegheny Mountains and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including forests, rivers, and mountains.
Moreover, the hot springs at Warm Springs have been used for centuries for their healing properties and are said to relieve a variety of ailments, including arthritis, muscle pain, and stress.
The water is naturally heated to a temperature of approximately 98 degrees Fahrenheit and is rich in minerals, including sulfur, magnesium, and calcium.
Visitors to Warm Springs can enjoy a variety of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and hydrotherapy baths, which use the natural mineral water.
The town also offers a range of cultural and recreational activities, including historic tours, art galleries, and outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.
In addition to its natural hot springs, Warm Springs is home to several historic landmarks and attractions, including the Jefferson Pools, a historic hot spring that has been a popular destination for over 250 years.
The town also boasts several historic buildings, including the Bath County Courthouse, which was built in 1890, and the Warm Springs Inn, which was built in the 1800s and now serves as a bed and breakfast.
Warm Springs is a charming and historic destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities.
Final Thoughts on Natural Hot Springs
Virginia offers a variety of natural hot springs that are not only scenic and relaxing but also rich in mineral content with therapeutic properties.
From the historic Jefferson Pools in Warm Springs to the luxurious Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, each of the natural hot springs has its own unique features and benefits for visitors.
Ultimately, whether seeking a peaceful escape or a thrilling outdoor adventure, these natural hot springs in and around Virginia offer something for everyone.