Looking for hot springs Joshua Tree? I’ve got news for you.
There aren’t any natural hot springs inside Joshua Tree National Park itself.
But here’s the good news – Desert Hot Springs is only 30-45 minutes away, and it’s loaded with incredible mineral hot springs resorts.
I’m talking naturally heated water, desert views, and the perfect way to soak after a long day of hiking.
Let me show you exactly where to go.
The Real Deal: No Springs in the Park
Here’s what most people don’t know.
Joshua Tree National Park doesn’t have natural hot springs within its boundaries.
The desert here is stunning, but you won’t find bubbling mineral water among the Joshua trees and rock formations.
That said, the nearby town of Desert Hot Springs is basically hot springs heaven.
It sits right on top of a massive aquifer of naturally heated mineral water.
So while you’re not soaking in the park, you’re only a short drive away from some seriously good springs.
Two Bunch Palms: My Top Pick for Adults
You’ll find it at 67425 Two Bunch Palms Trail in Desert Hot Springs, about 35 minutes from Joshua Tree.
Two Bunch Palms is where I go when I need to completely unplug.
This place is adults-only, which means peace and quiet.
The mineral water here comes straight from underground springs, heated naturally to around 99-104°F.
I love the lush grounds – it feels like an oasis in the middle of the desert.
They’ve got meditation spaces, outdoor wellness treatments, and spa services that’ll make you forget what day it is.
The vibe is eco-conscious and tranquil, perfect for a real getaway.
Miracle Springs Resort & Spa: Best for Variety
Located at 10625 Palm Dr in Desert Hot Springs, it’s another 35-minute drive from Joshua Tree.
Miracle Springs is huge, and I mean that in the best way.
They’ve got eight different mineral pools to choose from.
The water gets pumped up from 300 feet underground and stays between 90-104°F.
I can spend hours hopping between pools, each one with a slightly different temperature.
The rooms are airy and comfortable, plus they’ve got a full spa, massage services, and an on-site restaurant and bar.
What I really like is that they offer day passes, so you don’t have to book a room if you’re just passing through.
Sam’s Family Spa: Bring the Kids
Not every hot spring is adults-only, and that’s where Sam’s Family Spa shines.
This place sits on 50 acres and has four mineral pools ranging from 99-104°F.
They’ve got motel rooms, RV spots, tent camping, and even a playground.
I’ve seen families have a blast here, and the casual vibe makes it easy to just show up and relax.
If you’re traveling with kids or want a more laid-back hot springs experience, this is your spot.
The mineral water is just as good as the fancy resorts, but without the bougie atmosphere.
What Makes These Hot Springs Special
Every resort near Joshua Tree uses naturally heated mineral water.
We’re not talking about heated swimming pools – this is the real deal.
The water comes from deep underground aquifers in the Coachella Valley, naturally heated by geothermal activity.
It’s rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
People have been coming to Desert Hot Springs for decades because of these healing waters.
The resorts offer spa treatments, massage therapy, yoga classes, and wellness experiences.
Some places like Azure Palm Hot Springs also have their own Joshua Tree visitor guides.
You can usually choose between a day pass or booking an overnight stay.
Palm Springs and RV Options
If you want to combine camping with hot springs, there are options.
Some resorts offer RV and tent camping plus access to mineral pools and hot tubs.
You can even find glamping tents at certain properties.
It’s a great way to stay close to nature while still getting that hot spring soak.
The Palm Springs area has several spots that cater to the outdoor crowd.
I love this setup because you get the best of both worlds – desert stars at night and warm mineral water in the morning.
Things to Do Besides Soaking
Obviously, Joshua Tree National Park is the main attraction.
I spend my days hiking trails like Hi-View Trail and Cap Rock Nature Trail.
The rock formations are unreal, and the bouldering opportunities are endless.
Stargazing here is some of the best I’ve ever experienced.
Back in Joshua Tree town, there are quirky shops, art galleries, and live music venues.
If you want mountain views, take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
Camping, wildlife viewing, and wellness events happen all the time at the resorts and nearby parks.
It’s easy to fill a whole weekend – or week – with activities.
Where to Eat Near the Hot Springs
Joshua Tree Saloon is my go-to for casual food.
They serve burgers, steaks, seafood, and have live music in an Old West setting.
It’s family-friendly and open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at 61835 29 Palms Hwy.
Pappy & Harriet’s in Pioneertown is legendary for barbecue and live shows.
The rustic Western vibe is perfect, but you’ll want reservations for dinner.
For breakfast, JT Country Kitchen is cozy and serves classic American food with great coffee.
If you’re craving something different, Royal Siam Cuisine Thai Restaurant has authentic Thai food, Chinese dishes, and vegan options.
All these spots are within easy reach of the hot springs resorts.
My Tips
Skip the peak summer months if you can.
Desert heat plus hot springs can be intense – spring and fall are way better.
Most resorts offer both day passes and overnight stays, but check their websites for current policies.
I always combine my hot springs trip with hiking and stargazing in Joshua Tree.
The towns around here – Joshua Tree, Twentynine Palms, Pioneertown – are worth exploring for culture and food.
Don’t expect natural wilderness hot springs like you’d find in other parts of California or the mountain west.
These are resort-style experiences with pools, amenities, and spa services.
Bring a reusable water bottle because desert hydration is no joke.
And if you’re into architecture and design, Desert Hot Springs has some cool mid-century modern vibes.
Final Thought
Hot springs Joshua Tree might not be in the national park, but Desert Hot Springs delivers something even better.
You get naturally heated mineral water, professional spa services, and easy access to one of the best national parks in the country.
I’ve done the drive from Joshua Tree to Desert Hot Springs dozens of times, and it’s always worth it.
There’s something about soaking in hot mineral water after a day of desert hiking that just hits different.
Whether you go for the luxury of Two Bunch Palms, the variety at Miracle Springs, or the family fun at Sam’s Family Spa, you won’t regret it.
The combination of desert adventure and hot spring relaxation is unbeatable.
Trust me – once you experience hot springs near Joshua Tree, you’ll be planning your next trip before you even leave.