All listed hot springs in South Dakota
Select a column heading to sort. Temperatures are usually measured at the source, not in the soaking pool.
| Hot spring | Water temp | Type | Nearest town |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa | Not recorded | Resort | Hot Springs, SD |
| Cascade Falls Free | 71°F | Natural | Hot Springs, SD (8 mi) |
Types of hot springs in South Dakota
- Hot springs resorts and spas: 1 listed. Lodging, spa services and managed pools fed by thermal water. Easiest access, usually the highest price. See all hot springs resorts and spas.
- Natural hot springs: 1 listed. A named thermal source with little or no building. Some have rock pools, others are too hot or too shallow to soak in. See all natural hot springs.
Historical thermal springs in South Dakota (1981 list)
The US government's Thermal Springs List (NOAA, 1981) records 1 more warm and hot springs in South Dakota that we have not been able to match to a current, public site. Many are on private ranches, in wells or no longer flowing, so we list only the name, county and recorded temperature, and no map. Do not visit any of them without the landowner's permission.
Show the 1 historical records
| Name | County | Recorded temp |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Brook Springs | Fall River | 75°F |
Frequently asked questions
How many hot springs are in South Dakota?
This directory lists 2 hot springs in South Dakota with their own pages, plus 1 more thermal springs from the 1981 federal list that have not been confirmed recently. Many more small seeps exist on private land and are not listed.
What is the hottest hot spring in South Dakota?
The highest reading in our South Dakota listings is Cascade Falls at 71°F (22°C) at the source. Water that hot is not safe to enter.
Are there free hot springs in South Dakota?
Yes. Cascade Falls are recorded as free. Recreation passes or parking fees may still apply on public land.
Which South Dakota hot springs have developed pools?
Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa have built pools, tubs or bathhouses. These usually charge entry and have set hours.
When is the best time to visit hot springs in South Dakota?
Fall and spring are often the best balance of comfortable air temperature and open roads. Winter soaks are memorable, but many mountain and desert access roads close or need four-wheel drive. Summer can be too hot for low-elevation desert springs.