Driving east on either side of the Columbia River Gorge with Mount Hood filling the windshield, the stunning scenery leads to an enchanted place where you can choose your own adventure, relax and enjoy the magical hot water of Carson Hot Springs. Whether you are looking for luxury and a comfortable overnight stay or something a bit more rustic with a camping option, Carson Hot Springs in Washington has something for everyone.
A Brief History of Carson Hot Springs
Isadore and Margaret St. Martin homesteaded 160 acres in Carson around 1876, clearing the land for farming and selling the timber. In 1880, the hot springs were discovered by the family and were found to have healing properties. On the banks of the Wind River, what started as a single tub to soak led to the construction of the hotel, cabins and kitchen and the water being pumped uphill for public use.
The St. Martin family maintained the resort for over six decades, and the name eventually became Carson Hot Springs. Descendants of the St. Martin family still live across the river in a 150-year-old homestead that is the remaining part of the St. Martin homestead. They continue striving to be good stewards of their part of the original land.
Carson Hot Springs Golf and Spa Resort
Because of its longstanding history, a stay at Carson Hot Springs Golf and Spa Resort is like stepping back in time with all the comforts of modern life. Choose from any of their rooms, including some where the hot spring water is pumped directly into your own balcony hot tub and enjoy the surrounding forest and hills while relaxing in the historic resort. The rooms at the resort are new, but you will notice the authentic charm of the original building where you check in and the historic tubs in the bathhouse.
Day passes are also available both for the community soaking pool and the more private and original claw foot tubs that are separated by men and women. It’s a magical experience to soak in the mineral waters regardless of where you choose to indulge.
Need even more relaxation? Pamper yourself with one of the spa treatments at the resort, including massages, hot stone treatments, facials, body wraps and more.
The golf course at Carson Hot Springs is expansive and beautiful, with the hills rolling in the distance. Enjoy a round of golf and follow up with a delicious meal at the restaurant for a stay filled with luxury.
WindWoodRivers Hipcamp
For those looking for solitude and quiet, don’t miss WindWoodRivers Hipcamp, just across the Wind River from the resort. With a handful of camping options along the Little Wind River or a tiny house on a ridge full of ferns, find peace and tranquility in the forest valley. Several campsites offer complete privacy (provided you don’t mind packing your gear in a short distance), and some are more accessible drive-up campsites for those living the van life. Clean composting toilets are nearby but do come prepared, as there are no water or garbage services at this primitive and private campground.
The bonus of this Hipcamp is access to the natural hot springs that line the Wind River. While the Hipcamp owners won’t tell you how to find the springs, they are easily found by walking upriver from the meadow. There’s nothing like soaking in a rock-lined hot pool until you sweat and then taking a cold plunge in the adjacent Wind River.
More hot springs line the river, but use caution when exploring the area as large rock falls and other obstacles make them less accessible. Don’t try to reach the springs from up the river; it’s private, and people will be ticketed.
Regardless of how you experience Carson Hot Springs, a soak in the mineral waters offers relaxation and is an adventure that will leave you feeling fabulous. The region offers stunning waterfalls to explore, rivers to enjoy and countless hiking trails featuring tons of flora and fauna. So, choose your own adventure with a trip to Carson Hot Springs and experience the magical feeling of soaking in hot spring waters.
