Dakota Hot Springs in Penrose is a developed hot springs pool open year-round. Swimsuits are required one day per week, and the rest of the time it is clothing optional in the water.
It’s located in the scenic Arkansas River Valley, between Cañon City and Pueblo. This part of Colorado, west of Pueblo, is known as the Banana Belt of Colorado. The springs get on average over 300 days of sunshine each year. Reservations are required for visiting.
The Dakota Hot Springs inhabits a former oil well. The mining operation was abandoned in 1924 when Conoco found water and not oil at a depth of 2000 feet.
Facility
There is one 70-foot-long pool for soaking. The depth is about 3-5 feet. An artesian hot-water well feeds the pool at an average of 95-98 degrees F. A smaller, 6-foot round, soaking tub is kept hotter at about 108 degrees F. With people traveling from all over Colorado, don’t be surprised if you see a few walking around nude.
The natural flow of the artesian well source circulates new water into the pool. The mineral water contains therapeutic salts, soda, and calcium. There are only trace amounts of sulfur and iron, so there is no rotten-egg smell.
Bring food and drinks and enjoy it under the sun deck. There are BBQ grills available for guest use. No glass is permitted, cell phones, or any device that is capable of taking photos.
Campground
The closest town with lodging is Penrose and Cañon City is close by. There are campsites at Dakota Hot Springs. RVs and tents are welcome, but there are no hook-ups. Campers can use the bathhouse.
Pets are welcome in the campground. Check-in at 4pm until 9:15pm. It’s open for camping Tuesday through Saturday nights.
In addition to campsites for tents and RVs, there are 3 campers available for rent, sleeping either 2 or 4 people depending on the unit.
Atmosphere
Leave your swimsuits at home from Wednesday through Sunday when clothing is optional except on Tuesdays when swimsuits are required. Alcohol is permitted but not glass. There are great views of the Front Range; Reservations are required; Overnight camping is available but no hookups.
Getting There
Dakota Hot Springs is situated on the south side of Hwy 50 in Penrose near Canon City. It’s about one mile west of the junction of Hwy 50 and Hwy 115.
Details
Address: 1 Malibu Blvd, Penrose, CO 81240
Phone: 719-372-9250
Season: Year-round; Closed on Mondays
Clothing: Swimwear Optional, except Tuesdays when swimsuits are required
Temp: 95-98° F and 108° F
Chlorine: No
Reservations: Yes, required
Website: dakotahotsprings.com