Located in the small southwestern town of Saratoga, Wyoming, the hidden gem of Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs offers a unique hot springs experience. Best of all, it’s completely FREE and open 24 hours a day, making it a popular relaxation spot for both locals and visitors. Historically, these hot springs served as a “neutral ground” for Native American tribes, where they could set aside their differences and heal together. Today, you can still feel the peaceful atmosphere as you soak in the warm waters and unwind. Read on to discover everything you need to know about FREE hot Saratoga hot springs in Wyoming, and why Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs is a great place to stop when passing by or camping!
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How to get to Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs
Saratoga is located in southwestern Wyoming. The closest airport to Saratoga is Laramie Airport in Wyoming, about a 1.5-hour drive away. Another option is Yampa Valley Airport in Colorado, which is around a 2.5-hour drive. For those coming from farther away, Denver International Airport is approximately a 3.5-hour drive, making it a great distance for a scenic road trip through Wyoming’s beautiful landscapes.
Hobo Hot Springs: A Guide to the Various Pools
Lobster: The Hottest Hot Spring
This pool is boiling! It was 117°F when we visited. It’s actually nicknamed “Lobster” because of its intense heat. Even though I usually love hot springs, I decided to skip this one to avoid the risk of burning myself.
Main Pool
The bottom of the hot spring is covered in soft sand, and you can see bubbles rising from the natural heat below. Walking on the sand feels great, but be careful—there are some spots that get surprisingly hot! I also noticed a few people wearing water shoes, which is a smart choice to protect your feet in these conditions.
The water temperature is just right and feels wonderful. However, I noticed something a bit unexpected floating in the water—rather than the usual white mineral deposits, there was quite a bit of green algae. I’m not sure if this is a seasonal issue or something that’s always present, but it was noticeable. The algae also made the stairs a bit slippery. Because of the hot spots and slippery surfaces, I highly recommend wearing water shoes to stay safe and comfortable during your visit.
Small Pool
This is the coolest of the three pools, making it ideal for a longer soak, especially on hot summer days. However, like the other pools, there was a noticeable amount of algae floating around, which was a bit of a letdown.
Hot Spring Drainage into the North Platte River
North Platte River
One of the unique attractions of this hot spring is that its waters flow directly into the North Platte River. When we noticed a bit too much algae in the hot spring pools, we decided to move to the river instead. The shallow river makes it a perfect spot to sit, lie down, and enjoy the natural surroundings. For families, it’s an ideal environment—kids can play in the sand along the riverbank while parents relax in the warm, flowing water. The temperature varies from hot to cold depending on how close you sit near the drainage pipe. It’s a great spot for everyone to unwind and enjoy nature!
Hobo Hot Springs Facilities
Although this is a city-operated free hot spring, it offers the convenience of changing rooms! The facilities are separated by gender and include showers, toilets, and a sink all in one space. This thoughtful addition makes your visit better.
Shower
It’s impressive that, despite being free, this hot spring includes changing rooms and showers! However, there’s a small downside—don’t expect hot water from the showers. While the water isn’t ice-cold, it’s not warm either, which was a bit disappointing. Since we visited in early September during warmer weather, the cool shower wasn’t too bad after a hot spring soak. But in the middle of winter, a chilly shower like that might be a tough experience!
Restrooms
While there are restrooms on-site, be aware that they come with an unexpected quirk—there are no doors! If privacy is important to you, it’s probably best to take care of business elsewhere before your visit. Let’s be honest, no one’s really a fan of a doorless bathroom!
The Town of Saratoga
Just a stone’s throw from the hot springs, Saratoga’s quaint downtown offers a charming glimpse of Western heritage. The small town’s rustic appeal is undeniable, with its laid-back atmosphere and welcoming feel. However, dining options are a bit limited, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead if you’re looking for a bite to eat after your soak. While it may be small, Saratoga’s unique character adds an extra layer of charm to your hot springs adventure.
The Malt
Our family had a great dining experience at The Malt, and we highly recommend it! This popular spot is known for its BBQ sandwiches, burgers, and shakes. I tried the pulled pork sandwich, and it was absolutely fantastic! There’s also a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying your meal in a relaxed, open-air setting. It’s a great place to stop by if you’re in the mood for some classic BBQ and a laid-back atmosphere.
The Malt
110 E Main Ave, Saratoga, WY 82331
The place to stay
In addition to the free Hobo Hot Springs, Saratoga also offers hot spring hotels where you can enjoy a relaxing stay. These hotels provide a more luxurious experience, combining the natural hot springs with comfortable accommodations for an overnight retreat. Whether you’re looking for a casual soak or a full spa-like experience, Saratoga has something for everyone.
Saratoga Hot Springs Resort
601 Pic Pike Rd, Saratoga, WY 82331
Final Thoughts
Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs is an incredible spot that’s perfect for a break during a long road trip or camping adventure across the U.S. This hot spring is open 24 hours a day, year-round, and best of all, it’s completely free! However, I have to be honest—there are a few downsides. Some areas aren’t as clean as you’d hope, and I noticed some algae floating around, which made me wonder about the overall cleanliness.
That said, the fact that it’s free and always open makes it a gem. The natural, untouched atmosphere adds to its charm, and it’s super convenient if you’re looking for a quick soak or even an alternative to a shower while camping. If you’re passing through Wyoming on a road trip, it’s a great spot to stop, relax, and recharge!
What to Bring to Hobo Hot Springs
Uncover More Hot Springs: Your Next Relaxing Escape
Escape to Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, a cozy family spot only a 2.5-hour drive from Denver. Whether it’s for a quick day trip or a relaxing stay, come soak in the fun hot springs. Perfect for all ages to unwind and explore Colorado’s beauty!
2 thoughts on “Saratoga Hot Springs in Wyoming: Explore the FREE Hobo Hot Springs”
Algae in mineral hot springs isn’t necessarily an indication of the cleanliness. I’ve been in the most untouched, remote hot springs that are never visited by people and they have healthy algae because of the water and minerals. I don’t know the conditions or the reasons for the algae at this hot springs. 🤷♀️
Thanks for sharing! That’s a great point. Algae can naturally occur in mineral hot springs depending on the water and minerals.