Quick FactsOverview
About Splashland Hot Springs
Splashland Hot Springs, Colorado is a paid seasonal outdoor geothermal pool at 5895 Highway 17, one mile north of Alamosa in the San Luis Valley. The large main pool runs at 88 to 96 degrees Fahrenheit, fed by geothermal water entering at 102 degrees from a well drilled to approximately one mile deep. Three water slides, a diving board, lap lanes, and a documented ADA pool lift and accessible building are on site. Open late spring through mid-September.
The pool opened on Thanksgiving Day 1955 after oil drillers struck geothermal water instead of oil. After several ownership changes and a closure around 2008, new owners purchased it in 2010 and renovated the complex, adding a new perimeter wall, picnic areas, and two 55-foot water slides. An ADA-accessible building and concession area were added in 2014.
Beyond the main pool, Splashland offers water aerobics, swimming lessons, and aquatic rehabilitation. Nine shade cabanas and outdoor picnic areas are available. Outside food and beverages are permitted. For visitors looking for hot springs near Alamosa as part of a San Luis Valley day trip, Splashland is the closest family-oriented geothermal pool.
Location & Access
Getting to Splashland Hot Springs
Splashland Hot Springs is at 5895 Highway 17, Alamosa, CO 81101, one mile north of Alamosa city center on CO-17. The facility is directly on the highway with on-site parking. There is no hike required; visitors drive to the entrance and walk a short distance to the pool area.
From downtown Alamosa, drive north on CO-17 for approximately one mile. From Pueblo, drive west on US-50 to Canon City then south via CO-69 and US-160 to Alamosa, then north on CO-17, approximately two and a half hours total. From Colorado Springs, travel south on I-25 to Walsenburg then west on US-160 over La Veta Pass to Alamosa, about two hours. From Denver, drive south on I-25 to Walsenburg and follow the Alamosa route, approximately three hours. From Great Sand Dunes National Park, drive west on CO-150 to US-160 then west to Alamosa and north on CO-17, about 40 minutes.
The facility is open seasonally from late May through mid-September. Hours vary by day and event. The pool can close briefly for maintenance or weather. Checking the official website before traveling from out of town is recommended. For visitors exploring hot springs near Alamosa as part of a San Luis Valley trip, Splashland pairs well with Sand Dunes Recreation in Hooper, about 20 miles north.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Splashland Hot Springs Suits
Splashland Hot Springs suits families with children, active swimmers, and visitors looking for a classic outdoor geothermal pool experience with modern amenities and ADA accessibility. The pool is designed for active recreation rather than quiet soaking, with water slides, a diving board, and lap lanes making it more akin to a well-heated outdoor community pool than a contemplative mineral spa. The 88 to 96 degree temperature range is comfortable for sustained swimming and play without the heat limitations of higher-temperature springs.
The documented ADA pool lift and accessible building make Splashland one of the most accessible hot spring facilities in the San Luis Valley for visitors with mobility needs. This is a practical option for those looking for accessible hot springs near Alamosa. Swimwear is required at all times. No clothing-optional policy applies. The facility is lifeguarded during open swim hours.
Group bookings, birthday parties, and reunions are a common use of the facility, and party and group rates are available. The nine shade cabanas can be reserved in advance. Outside food and beverages are permitted on the grounds, which is unusual among Colorado hot spring facilities and makes extended visits with families more economical. The pool is seasonal and the open swim schedule is primarily targeted at summer visitors; those planning a winter or early spring visit to the Alamosa area will need to consider other options.
Safety & Etiquette
Splashland Hot Springs Safety Tips
Splashland Hot Springs is generally safe, with lifeguards on duty during open swim hours. Pool temperatures of 88 to 96 degrees Fahrenheit are below the threshold associated with elevated heat risk and are safe for most healthy visitors including children for extended swimming. The geothermal water enters at 102 degrees at the source but cools significantly across the large pool, so no area of the main pool is near scalding temperature.
The facility is ADA accessible, but visitors with specific mobility needs should contact Splashland in advance to confirm current lift availability and accessibility features. The water slides require physical confidence and are subject to posted rules enforced by staff. The diving board is a separate activity with its own area and depth requirements. Standard pool safety applies: no running on decks, no rough play near pool edges, and no glass containers in the pool area.
The San Luis Valley sits at approximately 7,500 feet elevation. UV exposure at altitude is intense, and the outdoor setting means full sun exposure on the pool deck. Apply sunscreen before arriving and reapply throughout the day. The valley is also known for afternoon wind; bring a layer for after-swimming. Dehydration is a risk during warm-weather pool days at altitude; drinking water regularly throughout the visit is important.
The facility is seasonal and the schedule varies. The pool can close briefly for maintenance, weather, or events. Checking hours before traveling from out of town is recommended. The nearest medical services are in Alamosa. No overnight lodging is available at the facility itself.
