File:Kids Fishing Derby at Saratoga National Fish Hatchery (51298519928).jpg — public domain
Saratoga Hot Springs emerges at 129 degrees Fahrenheit just 54 meters from the road in the town of Saratoga, operating as a municipal recreation facility with open public access at 6,799 feet elevation in Carbon County.
The spring sits in the high desert basin of southern Wyoming where the North Platte River cuts through folded sedimentary rock formations. At 6,799 feet elevation, the landscape transitions from sagebrush flats to the foothills of the Sierra Madre Range visible 20 miles to the south. Annual precipitation of 15 inches supports sparse grassland and scattered juniper, while winter snowpack of 67 inches blankets the basin from December through March. The spring's location within the town boundaries places it among residential and commercial development along the historic route to the Medicine Bow Mountains.
History of Saratoga Hot Springs
The town incorporated the springs into a municipal pool and recreation complex in the early 20th century after decades of private development following homesteader settlement in the 1870s. The name derives from the New York spa town, reflecting 19th-century promotion of western mineral springs. The facility operates as city-managed recreation infrastructure.
Visit year-round as the municipal facility maintains access regardless of season. Winter temperatures average 42 degrees, making cold-weather soaking particularly dramatic when ambient air stands 87 degrees cooler than the 129-degree water. Saratoga provides full services; Brush Creek ski trails lie 27 kilometers south for combination winter trips.
Is Saratoga Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Saratoga Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 15.2 in
Annual Snow: 66.8 in
December
Air 18°F · Water 129°F · +111° contrast
January
Air 19°F · Water 129°F · +110° contrast
February
Air 21°F · Water 129°F · +108° contrast
December offers 52°F more contrast than July
Overview
The cabin offers an ideal winter playground, with a snowy landscape perfect for recreation. Snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities. The Brush Creek Cross-Country Ski Trails are made up of loop trails winding through aspen, lodgepole pine stands and reclaimed clear-cuts. The frequency of trail grooming depends on weather conditions and equipment.Recreation
After the Wyoming Highway Department closes their gate for the winter the highway becomes a popular snowmobil...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Brush Creek Work Center Barrack
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Saratoga, WY
USGS Quad: SARATOGA 7.5 · PP 492: 115.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: RAWLINS
What is the water temperature at Saratoga Hot Springs?
Saratoga Hot Springs has a water temperature of 129°F (54°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Saratoga Hot Springs located?
Saratoga Hot Springs is located in Carbon County, Wyoming at 6,799 feet elevation, near Saratoga. Coordinates: 41.4500°N, 106.8040°W.
How do I get to Saratoga Hot Springs?
Saratoga Hot Springs has Roadside road access (177 ft from the road).
Is Saratoga Hot Springs free to visit?
Saratoga Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by CITY.
Can I camp near Saratoga Hot Springs?
Yes, Brush Creek Work Center Barrack is located nearby (16.6 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Saratoga Hot Springs?
At 129°F, Saratoga Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Saratoga Hot Springs crowded?
Saratoga Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Saratoga Hot Springs?
Essentials for Saratoga Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.