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Big Bend National Park A lone bather at the Hot Springs
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Big Bend National Park
Take a Soak in the Hot Springs
 
A crowded day at the Hot Springs.
Adrian Barrera
A crowded day at the Hot Springs.
 

J.O. Langford’s impressive bathhouse is long gone—today the spring is contained inside the foundation remains of the bathhouse, immediately next to the north bank of the Rio Grande. The Hot Springs offers a primitive bathing experience along the banks of the Rio Grande with unparalleled scenery.

Below you'll find important information about enjoying the primitive experience that the Hot Springs has to offer:
The Disappearing Hot Spring | Hot Springs Road | Hiking to the Hot SpringHot Water Warning | The Rules

 
The Hot Spring covered by debris

NPS/Big Bend National Park

As the river bed changes, sometimes the river level is equal to the hot springs. At other times, the springs are high above the water.

The Disappearing Hot Spring...
When the Rio Grande floods, muddy water flows over the spring, often submerging it. Once the flood has receded, the spring may be covered in rocks, mud or debris. This will require some digging to form a suitable space for bathing.
What's the river level now?

 
The narrow Hot Springs Road, 1954

NPS/Big Bend National park

The narrow Hot Springs Road, 1954

Hot Springs Road
This two-mile gravel road descends down a rough, narrow wash to the Hot Springs Historic District and trailhead area. Note: Motor homes and oversize vehicles are prohibited on the one-way sections of the Hot Springs road.
 
The Hot Springs Trail

Brian Dann

The Hot Springs Trail

Hiking to the Hot Spring
From the trailhead, the hot spring is a half-mile round trip. A one-mile loop trail continues from the hot spring and loops around on the bluff above the Rio Grande, returning to the trailhead area. The hot spring is not accessible by car.

 

Hot Water Warning
Hot spring water is considered old water, fossil water, ancient and irreplaceable. Heated by geothermal processes and emerging at 105° F., the water carries dissolved mineral salts reputed to have healing powers. The therapeutic value of heat has long been touted as a remedy of both body and soul. Be aware that some hot springs can burn you either with the scalding effects of heat or the caustic nature of the water chemistry.

Use caution when bathing and limit the exposure of children to the warm waters.

 

The Rules
• Be respectful of others—soak only and use no soaps or oils.
• Swimming is not recommended; be aware that adjacent river currents and depths can be unpredictable.
• Please help to keep the area clean by picking up trash.
• Alcoholic beverages and glass containers are prohibited.
• Overnight camping in the area of the Hot Springs is prohibited.
• It is illegal to purchase items from vendors operating on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande.

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Cooper's Store, 1940s

Did You Know?
Local legend Hallie Stillwell once said,“Cooper’s Store was the clearing house for information; travelers always stopped to find out what had happened ahead of them.” The old store building retains this role today as the Persimmon Gap Visitor Center at the north entrance to Big Bend National Park.
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Last Updated: June 20, 2009 at 19:24 MST