Quick Info
Main option: Sand Dunes Swimming Pool. Location: Hooper, 25 miles north of Alamosa. Water source: Geothermal artesian well. Temperature: 98-100°F. Style: Public swimming pool, not natural springs.
The San Luis Valley sits on significant geothermal resources. Hot water rises from underground throughout the valley, used for heating, fish farming, and—at Sand Dunes Swimming Pool—for a unique high-desert soaking experience.
While not the same as natural hot springs in mountain settings, the geothermal pool offers a convenient place to relax after hiking the dunes or exploring the valley.
Sand Dunes Swimming Pool
Overview
A geothermally-heated swimming pool in Hooper, about halfway between Alamosa and the Great Sand Dunes. The pool uses naturally heated artesian water at 98-100°F year-round.
Facilities
Large outdoor pool, dive platform, and soaking area. Basic changing rooms and showers. Simple but functional. The setting is high desert with mountain views.
Atmosphere
Local and family-oriented. Not a resort or spa—more like a community pool with hot water. Casual and unpretentious. Kids welcome.
Practical Info
Hours: Open year-round. Check current hours as they vary seasonally.
Cost: Modest admission fee. Cash preferred.
What to bring: Towels, sunscreen, water. Snacks available but limited food options.
Geothermal in the Valley
The San Luis Valley has extensive geothermal resources. Hot water is used throughout the valley for greenhouses, fish farms (including the famous Colorado Gators), and heating. The geothermal activity relates to the valley's rift zone geology.
Nearby Hot Springs
For more developed hot springs experiences, consider:
Pagosa Springs: 1.5 hours west. Multiple developed hot springs resorts and natural riverside soaking.
Salida/Buena Vista: 2 hours north. Mount Princeton and Cottonwood Hot Springs offer different experiences.
Joyful Journey: Near Villa Grove, about 1.5 hours north. Small hot springs retreat with lodging.
Tips
Combine with dunes visit. Sand Dunes Swimming Pool is on the route between Alamosa and the national park. Stop for a soak on your way back.
Bring cash. Small operations in rural Colorado often prefer cash.
Set expectations. This is a simple pool, not a resort. Good for what it is—a hot soak in the high desert.
Check hours. Rural Colorado businesses can have irregular hours. Call ahead or check online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it natural hot springs?
The water is natural geothermal water from an artesian well. The pool itself is a constructed swimming pool, not a natural spring setting.
Is it good for families?
Yes—it's a swimming pool environment with a diving platform and areas for kids. Not a quiet spa atmosphere.
How hot is the water?
Around 98-100°F—warm and comfortable but not extremely hot. Suitable for extended soaking.
Are there better hot springs nearby?
For developed resort springs, Pagosa Springs (1.5 hours) offers multiple options. For mountain hot springs, head north to Salida/Buena Vista.
Is it open year-round?
Yes, though winter hours may be reduced. The geothermal water maintains temperature year-round.