Quick Info
Options: Hot springs resorts, motels, cabins, camping. Best for springs: Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort. Best for downtown: In-town motels and vacation rentals. Peak season: Summer weekends (book ahead).
Buena Vista lodging ranges from hot springs resorts to campgrounds, with plenty in between. The hot springs resorts offer the unique combination of lodging and unlimited soaking. Downtown options put you within walking distance of breweries and restaurants. And camping is plentiful in the surrounding national forest.
Hot Springs Lodging
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
The premium option combining lodging with hot springs access. Resort rooms, cabins, and creekside accommodations. Guests get extended pool hours and avoid day-use fees.
Pros: Best hot springs, beautiful setting, full resort amenities.
Cons: Higher prices, 8 miles from downtown.
Cottonwood Hot Springs
More rustic lodging with hot springs access. Cabins and lodge rooms in a quieter setting. Different vibe than Princeton—more retreat-like.
Pros: Peaceful, affordable, authentic.
Cons: Basic amenities, limited dining.
In-Town Lodging
Motels
Several independent motels in and near downtown. Basic but functional. Walking distance to restaurants and breweries.
Good for: Budget travelers, those prioritizing downtown access over hot springs.
Vacation Rentals
Cabins, houses, and condos available through Airbnb, VRBO, and local agencies. Good value for groups and families needing space and kitchens.
Camping
Extensive camping options in the surrounding San Isabel National Forest. Both developed campgrounds and dispersed camping available.
Developed Campgrounds
Several Forest Service campgrounds with established sites, fire rings, and restrooms. Some accept reservations, others are first-come.
Dispersed Camping
Free camping on national forest land with proper permit and leave-no-trace practices. Popular with climbers and rafters.
Private Campgrounds
RV parks and private campgrounds offer full hookups and amenities.
Tips
Book hot springs resorts early. Summer weekends fill weeks in advance, especially at Mount Princeton.
Consider Salida. If Buena Vista is full, Salida is 20 minutes south with additional lodging options.
Camping fills too. Popular campgrounds fill early on summer weekends. Arrive Thursday or early Friday.
Combine hot springs with stay. Staying at a hot springs resort saves on day-use fees and gives extended access.
Weekdays are easier. Midweek visits offer better availability and often lower prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I stay at a hot springs resort?
If hot springs are a priority, yes—included access and extended hours make it worthwhile. If you're focused on rafting or climbing, in-town options work fine.
Is Buena Vista expensive?
Moderate. Cheaper than resort towns, more expensive than cities. Hot springs resorts are pricier; motels and camping are affordable.
How far in advance should I book?
Summer weekends: 2-4 weeks. Hot springs resorts: even earlier. Weekdays: often available last-minute.
Is camping available year-round?
Some campgrounds close for winter. Dispersed camping may require 4WD for snow access. Check conditions.
Any chain hotels?
Limited. Buena Vista is mostly independent lodging. Salida has a few chain options.