Soaking in Massachusetts's Hot Springs

There are not many hot springs in New England, so we are also including spas. Massachusetts, often associated with historic charm and delectable seafood, holds a lesser-known secret: natural hot springs. Sadly, there aren’t any Boston hot springs.

Due to the specific geological makeup of Massachusetts, true "hot springs" – those exceeding 140°F (60°C) – are rare. However, several natural springs with comfortably warm water temperatures exist and are popularly referred to as hot springs.

Getting there is an easy flight, with plenty of places to stay. As always I suggest getting travel insurance in case nature rears her head and cancels your travel.

Best Time to Go

Spring (March – May) and fall (September – November) offer the most comfortable soaking experiences with pleasant weather and moderate crowds. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly.

Sand Springs Pool and Recreation Center

Sand Springs Pool & Recreational Center is an outdoor community pool in Williamstown. Upon arrival, visitors will find a small swimming pool and a hot tub that receive water from underground natural springs.

Stay nearby at the Maple Terrace Motel and enjoy the pool and fire pit set in fields of green. The Maple Terrace is located in Williamstown, Massachusetts in the Berkshire Mountains, one of the most beautiful areas of New England.

Sand Springs is the site of one of the oldest spas in North America. It is believed that Native Americans from the Five Nations made use of the spring as a water source and a medicine spring. Arrowheads and other relics of a Native American encampment have been found on the site. A world-renowned soda and spring water bottling company has operated on the site since 1894.

Sand Springs is one of the only thermal springs in New England. Water originates from the Domlet in Pownal, VT and descends to a depth of approximately 2,800 feet. 

For many years it has been a hot spot for the artists from the Williamstown Theatre Festival and locals alike. It now operates as a non-profit recreational center, aiming to preserve its historic character and charm.

Water Quality: 4 stars (Minor sediment, slight sulfur smell)

Ease of Access: 5 stars (Easily accessible by paved road)

Ability to Be Alone: 2 stars (Shared pool, can be busy)

Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature)

Health Benefits: 3 stars (Moderate mineral content, potential relaxation benefits)

Nearby Amenities: 4 stars (Pool complex with additional amenities, restaurants and shops nearby)

Secret Tip: Visit during weekdays for a potentially less crowded experience.

Bowers Springs

Nestled within the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Bowers Springs offers a unique experience. While not a hot springs, you can enjoy getting in the water by staying nearby at Great Wolf Lodge New England.

The iron-rich waters have a distinctive reddish hue, and the secluded location fosters a sense of tranquility. While the water temperature is cooler than traditional hot springs, the natural beauty and historical significance make it a worthwhile visit.

Bowers’ Springs is one of Bolton’s most popular conservation areas due to the scenic ponds, flat grassy fields suitable for picnicking and well distinguished trails connecting on to the Vaughn Hills/Hansen conservation areas, another popular area with miles of scenic trails.

No swimming is permitted in the ponds except by the Tom Denney Nature Camp during the summer months.

Bluebirds are attracted to this property and can be seen perched on the nest boxes that were constructed by a local 4-H group.

Water Quality: 3 stars (Noticeable iron content, reddish hue)

Ease of Access: 4 stars (Short, easy walk on a maintained trail)

Ability to Be Alone: 4 stars (Secluded location within a wildlife sanctuary)

Water Temperature: 3 stars (Slightly cool water temperature)

Health Benefits: 2 stars (Limited mineral content, primarily a sensory experience)

Nearby Amenities: 3 stars (Limited amenities on-site, restaurants and shops in nearby Lenox)

Secret Tip: Combine your visit with a hike on the scenic trails within the wildlife sanctuary.

Lithia Springs Reservoir

While no longer suitable for soaking due to a change in water usage, Lithia Springs Reservoir offers a historical glimpse into Massachusetts' fascination with mineral springs.

The site features the ruins of a 19th-century bottling plant that once harvested the spring water believed to have health benefits. The well-maintained trails and secluded location make it a peaceful escape for nature enthusiasts.

Stay nearby at the D Hotel Spa and Suites to experience the spa services no longer available at Lithia.

Water Quality: 3 stars (Noticeable sediment)

Ease of Access: 3 stars (Moderate hike on a well-maintained trail)

Ability to Be Alone: 5 stars (Secluded location, multiple pools)

Water Temperature: N/A (No longer a viable soaking option, water source used for bottling)

Health Benefits: N/A (Water source used for bottling)

Nearby Amenities: 1 star (Remote location, limited amenities)

East Heaven

East Heaven at 150 Northampton Street in Easthampton, MA is aptly named, and founded in Japanese tradition. The spa includes beautifully crafted indoor and outdoor teak wooden private hot tubs. Enjoy a luxurious soak with the music of your choice when you tub indoors, or listen to the sounds of nature when you soak under the sky in one of our famous outdoor tubs.

Sadly they closed due to a fire but will open in late 2025.

Stay nearby at the D. Hotel Suites & Spa right on the Connecticut River with an indoor pool, hot tub, and full breakfast.

They provide towels, soap, and hair dryers. The 104-degree F water is always so pure that you feel like you are in heaven. To keep it that way, they use bromine, ozone gas and silver catalytic purifiers for the ultimate in comfort with a minimum of chemical purification, to keep you happy.

Miraval Berkshires

Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa that opened in 2020 in Lenox, Massachusetts.

In the spa, a hand-crafted metal Mandala welcomes you. Beyond, 29,000 square feet of pools, saunas, lounges, and treatment rooms in which to nurture the body and refresh the soul. The spa is awesome. There are different rooms for relaxing which include a sauna, steam room, and outdoor relaxation rooms.

It’s not just about the spa here, you can enjoy everything from wine tasting to aurora reading to mushroom growing.

What is also amazing is that it is a no-tipping property, so you never feel uneasy or have to worry about carrying money around.

The Spa at Encore Boston Harbor

The Spa and Fitness Center at Encore Boston Harbor. While there don’t miss the yummy oyster hour - you can add it to happy hour for more fun. And don’t miss the cute little carousel.
Across 19,000 square feet of tranquil treatment rooms, separate ladies and gentlemen heat and water experiences, exquisite selection of European furnishings, artwork, glowing floor lanterns, and the aroma of Yuzu and White Tea set the mood for the ultimate in spa relaxation and rejuvenation.

Reservations are recommended but walk-in reservations are available. You must be 18 years of age or older to use The Spa, so no kids.

Robes and slippers are provided for your convenience. A bathing suit is required to use the heat and water facilities. The Spa and The Salon are available for non-resort guests to make reservations.

For other hot springs in New England, take look at New York hot springs and spas.