Quick FactsOverview
About The Springs at Carson
The Springs at Carson, Washington is a free primitive geothermal spring on the Wind River in Skamania County, in the Columbia River Gorge, near the town of Carson. Two natural bedrock pools on the riverbank sit at approximately 102 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The larger pool can accommodate six to seven people and the smaller downstream pool is slightly warmer and shallower. Both pools draw geothermal water from the same underground system that feeds the historic Carson Hot Springs Resort nearby, and the springs have been known to locals and Pacific Northwest hot spring visitors for generations.
The springs lie on public land within the high water line of the Wind River, but all surrounding property is privately owned. There is no developed infrastructure of any kind at the spring site. Access is seasonal and legally complex, with no single straightforward public route. Historically multiple access options have existed through the area, but private property postings, legal disputes over bridge use, and fluctuating river levels have made reliable access difficult to document. The springs are known locally as Wind River Hot Springs and also as St. Martins Hot Springs, referencing the nearby historic St. Martin Hotel. They are sometimes listed as "The Springs at Carson" to distinguish them from the developed resort.
Location & Access
Getting to The Springs at Carson
The Springs at Carson are reached via a short hike of approximately 0.5 miles, but the route involves either a river crossing or navigating a complex access situation involving private property boundaries. Three main access approaches have been used by visitors, each with significant caveats.
The first option is to park at Carson Hot Springs Resort, which charges a small parking or access fee, and hike north on the trail from the resort. This leads to trail junctions near the Wind River. The springs themselves are on the far side of the river and require crossing the river, which moves quickly. River fording is only safe in late summer when water levels are low, typically July through September. The second option is to park on Shipherd Falls Road in the Carson neighborhood and access the trail toward the footbridge. A small footbridge exists in this area on public land, but crossing it has resulted in citations from Washington State Fish and Game in some documented instances and its legal status is contested. The third option involves Indian Cabin Road, where a turnout provides river access, and the springs can be reached by walking along the high water line without trespassing, though this route requires some route-finding.
For those seeking natural hot springs near Carson Washington, this is the closest free wild soaking option, but visitors must research current access conditions carefully before visiting and be prepared for the river crossing requirement.
Suitability & Accessibility
Suitability and Accessibility of The Springs at Carson
The Springs at Carson suit confident, experienced outdoor visitors who are comfortable with river crossings, route-finding, and ambiguous access situations. The springs are not suitable for families with young children, non-swimmers, or visitors who cannot safely ford a moving river. River fording requires strong footing on slippery rocks in fast-moving water. Under no circumstances should the crossing be attempted in spring or early summer when snowmelt raises the Wind River to dangerous levels.
The springs themselves are not wheelchair accessible and have no developed paths, facilities, or amenities of any kind. No changing rooms, restrooms, or parking are available at the spring site. Clothing-optional use is the norm. The pools are small: the larger pool holds approximately six to seven people and the smaller pool is more intimate. Water quality can vary with river flooding and seasonal conditions. The springs are on public land within the river's high water line, but given surrounding private property, visitors must be attentive to where they walk to avoid trespassing.
The best time to visit is late summer, typically July through September, when the Wind River is at its lowest and the crossing is most manageable. Weekday visits are far less crowded than weekends. The springs are known to local Portland and Washington visitors and can be busy on warm summer weekends. For those seeking natural hot springs near Carson Washington with easier access, Carson Hot Springs Resort is the nearby developed alternative.
Safety & Etiquette
The Springs at Carson Safety Tips
The Springs at Carson are an undeveloped wild spring with no staff, signage, or emergency infrastructure on site. The primary safety hazard is the Wind River crossing. The river runs fast even in late summer and footing on the riverbed rocks is slippery. Do not attempt the crossing in spring or early summer when snowmelt significantly raises the river level. Test the crossing depth and current before committing. If the water is above knee height or moving too fast to stand in comfortably, turn back. Do not cross alone.
Water temperature in the pools is approximately 102 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Test each pool before entering. Temperature can vary within the pool and near the spring vent. Limit soaking time in the hottest water, stay hydrated, and exit immediately if you feel dizzy or overheated. Do not soak in the river itself without first checking that current and depth are safe for re-entry.
The bridge in the area has resulted in citations in the past. Read current visitor reports before deciding on your access route and respect all posted no-trespassing signs. Parking on Indian Cabin Road has led to vehicles being towed by private property owners in documented cases. Verify current parking conditions before you go.
The area is within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Pack out all waste. No camping is permitted at the springs. The nearest town with services is Carson, a short drive away. Cell service is limited in the gorge area, so download maps and directions before departing.
