Carson Hot Springs Resort & Spa, Washington

What it is

Carson Hot Springs Resort & Spa is a historic, developed hot springs destination in the Columbia River Gorge area. Instead of outdoor natural pools, you get a structured resort setup: a mineral therapy pool, a bathhouse with individual soaking, and on-site lodging and amenities.

How the soaking works

The resort experience is split between different soaking styles. The mineral therapy pool is a shared, modern pool environment where swimwear is required. The bathhouse side is more traditional, with private tubs and a different clothing norm depending on the specific service. That mix makes Carson a good pick if your group wants options, but it also means you should read the current rules before you arrive.

If you want the simplest version of Carson, think “drive up, check in, soak, shower, leave.” No backcountry logistics, no guessing whether the pools will be usable today.

Where it is

The resort is in Carson, Washington, near the Columbia River Gorge, reached by paved roads and standard parking. This is a drive-up soak, not a trail-based destination.

Getting there

Because you are in a river-gorge corridor, winter weather can still affect travel, especially if you are coming from higher-elevation routes. Check road conditions if storms are in the forecast, then treat the final approach like any small-town resort drive.

What to bring

Bring a swimsuit for the therapy pool, plus sandals for wet floors. If you plan to use the bathhouse, bring whatever personal items you prefer for comfort after soaking (hair tie, small water bottle, moisturizer). A light robe or warm layer is useful for moving between spaces, especially in colder months.

Because rules and services can vary by ticket type and season, confirm day-use details directly with the resort before you go.

Best for

Carson is best for travelers who want mineral water without wilderness logistics. It is also a solid bad-weather option when forest roads are messy, because you can still soak and warm up without committing to a hike.

Families

This is not a family soak in the usual sense. The resort restricts access to key soaking areas by age, including rules that prohibit minors from certain pools and tubs. If you are traveling with kids, you need to verify what they can actually use before you book or drive over.

Mobility realities

It is drive-up access, but the real question is interior movement: steps, wet floors, and getting in and out of tubs. If you need step-free routes or specific accessible features, confirm directly with the resort because “easy to reach” does not automatically mean easy entry into the water.

Expectations vs reality

Expect a resort environment, not a natural riverside hot spring. If your goal is scenery and solitude, pick a wild spring. If your goal is reliable soaking, Carson makes life easier.

Heat, time limits, and hydration

Even at a resort, hot water can push you faster than you expect. Start with a shorter soak, cool down between rounds, and hydrate. Follow posted time limits and staff direction, especially in busy periods.

Age rules and ID

Carson enforces age restrictions for certain soaking areas and may require proof of age for access. Do not assume kids can join you in every pool. Check the current rules before you arrive so you do not end up disappointed at the front desk.

Clothing norms

Swimsuits are required in the therapy pool. The bathhouse has different norms and can be clothing optional depending on the service. Treat other guests with privacy and keep phones put away.

Etiquette

Shower as directed, keep voices low, and avoid strong scents. Do not bring glass into wet areas. If you are sharing a pool space, give people room and keep your soak calm and short when others are waiting.

Are swimsuits required?

Swimsuits are required in the mineral therapy pool. Bathhouse services can follow different clothing norms, so check before you choose.

Can children use the hot springs?

Some soaking areas restrict minors, including rules that do not allow children under 18 in certain tubs. Confirm what is available for your group before you go.

Is this a natural outdoor hot spring?

No. This is a developed resort with managed soaking spaces. If you want natural pools, choose a wild spring instead.

Do I need to plan ahead?

Yes. Day-use details, hours, and pricing can vary. Check the resort’s current info before you arrive.