Overview
A Calistoga original, built around geothermal water
Indian Springs is one of the names that made Calistoga a hot-springs town. You’re not hiking to a creek here, you’re soaking in a managed setting where the whole point is the mineral water. The resort runs multiple geothermal pools plus a large warm swimming pool, so you can switch between a quiet soak and a more social lap-pool feel without leaving the property.
What the soaking is like
Day passes (when offered) focus on the geothermal pools. The resort lists three geothermal pools at about 102°F (39°C) and a warm swimming pool around 93°F (34°C). There’s also an adults-only “Buddha Pond” listed at about 102°F (39°C) when it’s open. Temperatures are posted, but your experience still changes with weather and how long you stay in.
What to expect beyond the water
This is Calistoga, so mud bathing is part of the local story. Indian Springs pairs the pools with spa services and a classic wine-country resort vibe. It’s a strong choice if you want geothermal water without guessing where to park or whether the “trailhead” is actually legal.
Location & Access
Where it is
Indian Springs is at 1712 Lincoln Ave in Calistoga, in the Upper Napa Valley hot-springs corridor.
By car
It’s a drive-up destination with on-site parking and no hike. Calistoga is reached via Highway 29 and local roads, so the main variables are weekend traffic and wine-country event days.
Entry and planning
Pool access is managed through the resort, and day passes (if available) can sell out. Check the resort’s current pass rules, age policies, and any quiet-hour expectations before you go.
What to bring
Bring a swimsuit, sandals for wet decks, a water bottle, and sun protection for summer afternoons. A light layer helps for evenings, Calistoga cools down fast once the sun drops. If you’re doing spa treatments, arrive early so you’re not rushing from parking to appointment.
Suitability & Accessibility
Indian Springs works best for travelers who want a dependable soak with posted rules and predictable logistics. If you’re trying to plan a Calistoga day around wineries, this is one of the easier hot-water anchors to build around.
Families
Families can make it work, especially around the main pool areas, but it’s still a resort setting. If you’re visiting with kids, plan shorter soak blocks and plenty of shade breaks, warm water plus sun can flatten kids quickly.
Couples and friend trips
For couples, the appeal is simple: geothermal water, mud-bath culture nearby, and you can linger without needing wilderness skills. Friends tend to like it when the goal is “soak, snack, repeat” rather than a big itinerary.
Mobility realities
Expect a typical resort layout with paved paths, but also wet surfaces, steps in and out of pools, and changing-room transitions. If step-free access matters to you, contact the resort directly and ask what routes and lifts (if any) are available on the day you plan to visit.
Expectations vs reality
This is not a quiet backcountry soak. It’s managed hot water in a popular town, and that’s the point. If you want solitude, pick a weekday or go early.
Safety & Etiquette
Heat management
Even “only” 102°F (39°C) can be a lot after 10 to 15 minutes, especially in direct sun. Rotate warm soak, cool-down, then water in the shade. If you feel lightheaded, get out, sit down, and reset.
Hydration and alcohol
Wine country makes it tempting to combine tastings and soaking. Do it carefully. Drink water before and after, and keep alcohol away from the hottest soak.
Deck safety
Wet tile and concrete get slick. Walk, don’t hurry, and keep sandals on until you’re right at the water’s edge.
Etiquette
Keep voices down in quieter pool zones, give people space at steps and handrails, and don’t camp on the edge where others need to enter. Rinse off before you soak if showers are provided, it helps keep the water and filtration systems in better shape.
Photo habits
Resort pools are not a public photoshoot. If you take pictures, keep other guests out of frame and put the phone away in crowded areas.
FAQs
Are day passes available for Indian Springs Calistoga?
The resort advertises day passes for pool access at times, but availability and rules can change. Check the current day-pass page before you go.
How warm are the pools?
The resort lists its geothermal pools at about 102°F (39°C) and the warm swimming pool around 93°F (34°C). Weather can make the water feel hotter or cooler than the number suggests.
Is there an adults-only pool?
Indian Springs lists an adults-only “Buddha Pond” at about 102°F (39°C) when it’s open. Confirm current access rules on the resort site.
Do you need reservations?
For day access, spa services, and busy weekends, assume you’ll need to plan ahead. The safest move is to confirm in advance rather than driving in hoping for walk-up entry.
What should I pack for a comfortable soak?
Swimsuit, sandals, water, sun protection, and a light layer for evening. If you’re sensitive to heat, plan short soak intervals and more cool-down time.