Discover the Hidden Oasis at Hooper Pool: Sand Dunes Recreation Hot Springs
At the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, the small town of Hooper is home to some of the most unique hot springs in the San Luis Valley. In the early 1930s, while drillers were exploring for oil near Hooper, Colorado, they struck hot water. The hot water was used for many years by locals but eventually closed in 1978. After reopening in 1995, the “hooper pools” now offer two ways to enjoy the natural thermal water—An adults-only greenhouse, or a large family swimming pool.
The Sand Dunes Recreation Hot Springs Pool is a one-of-a-kind experience, and this guide will give you all the details you need to know to enjoy a unique and relaxing experience in southern Colorado after exploring Great Sand Dunes National Park!
Sand Dunes Recreation Hot Springs Pool Details
Location: 1991 Co Rd 63, Hooper, CO 81125
Open Year-round: Closed Thursdays for cleaning
Regular Hours: March 1 – Nov 30: 10am-10pm
Winter Hours: Dec 1 – Feb 28: 1pm-8pm
Sand Dunes Family Swimming Pool
Pool Admission Rates:
Adults 13 + $15
Children 3 to 12 $10
Children 2 and under FREE
Seniors 65+ $12
College Students (with ID) $12
Military $12
The sand dunes pool is the large outdoor family pool you see when you first enter the resort and is maintained at 98 degrees year-round. When I first walked in, the pool was bustling with kids playing and splashing around in the water. The adults were chatting and relaxing on the nearby chairs, enjoying the sunny day. The pool area was clean and well-maintained, with stunning views of the rocky mountains from the pool.
Additionally, there was a 24-foot kid’s water slide and a diving board where I saw kids doing cannonballs into the pool. Beyond that was a volleyball and basketball court that provides guests the opportunity to compete in games. The large grassy area has a creek that is perfect for little ones to explore and play in the water. There were also picnic tables available for use, and the Mile Deep Grille offered sandwiches, burgers, salads, refreshments, and more. The facility also provides changing rooms, restrooms, and a shower on site.
As I handed the cashier my $15 admission fee she told me to head down the long hallway just past the pool to get to the adults-only greenhouse hot spring lounge. I thanked her and made my way down the hall, eager to see what awaited..
The Greenhouse Lounge
Green House Daily Rates:
- Must be 21+ to enter $5
- Seniors 65+ $3
- Clothing Required
When I arrived at the Greenhouse, it was like nothing I’d ever experienced. With the Greenhouse at a comfortable tropical temperature of 70 degrees year-round, I was awestruck by the sheer abundance of plants and the heady scent of soil and foliage.
Located on the other side of the resort, the adults only-greenhouse (21+) offers a quiet and more intimate setting, I could tell I was going to have a more relaxing experience.
There are three artesian water pools heated by natural thermal water, with temperatures ranging from 102-112 degrees, a large zero-entry pool that is around 98 degrees complete with a water fountain, and a steam room (sauna) where you can melt your stress away—surrounded by a lush tropical garden.
For amenities, there are changing rooms, showers, and lockers available. Plus, inside the Greenhouse is the Steel box bar that serves alcoholic beverages, and fantastic food.
Zero-Entry Pool
I wandered around to familiarize myself with the area and the first pool I settled into was the Deep Thought hot spring which was 107 degrees. I didn’t stay there for long, however, as it was quite toasty.
I then moved on to the Zero entry pool, which was a more moderate 98 degrees. This pool was lovely, and I spent a good amount of time relaxing in its warm waters.
Lunch from Steel Box Bar
I was starting to get hungry so I had some lunch from the Steel box bar. They had a delicious-looking seared tuna dish on the menu, so I decided to give it a try. I wasn’t disappointed – it was extremely tasty. What’s more, the Steel Box bar offers a wide range of other food items, so there’s something for everyone.
I decided that I wanted to try out every hot spring in the greenhouse, so I hopped in the Coffin Hot Springs Tub. The water was a scalding 110.5 degrees, and I could barely get my feet in. It was too hot for me, so I quickly moved on to the last hot artesian spring, which was the perfect temperature. I spent the rest of my time in that pool before it was time for me to leave.
Greenhouse Final Thoughts
I had always been curious about the Sand Dunes Recreation Hot Springs Pool, so when I finally had the chance to visit, I didn’t know what to expect.
I was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful setting and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. I spent a leisurely afternoon exploring the grounds and soaking in the hot springs.
I left feeling refreshed and rejuvenated as if I had been on a mini-vacation. If you ever have the chance to visit the Sand Dunes Recreation Hot Springs Pool, don’t hesitate—it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
How to Get to Sand Dunes Recreation Hot Springs Pool
The Sand Dunes Recreation Hot Springs Pool is located in Hooper, Colorado, at the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountains.
To get to the pool from Great Sand Dunes National Park, simply head southwest on Highway 150 for 2.5 miles before turning right onto Lane 6 N. After 16 miles, turn right again onto CO-17 for 7.1 miles. Turn right onto Road B for 1.5 miles. Finally, turn left onto Co Rd 63 and you will arrive at the Sand Dunes Recreation Hot Springs Pool on your left.
The pool is open year-round, but hours may vary seasonally, so be sure to check the website or call ahead before you go.
Lodging
Sand Dunes Recreation offers a variety of accommodations to suit every need. RV and tent campers can enjoy picturesque sites nestled at the base of rugged mountains, while cabins provide a cozy home-away-from-home for those looking for a bit more comfort. For groups, the spacious hacienda is perfect for large families.
RV Park
The RV Park offers 10 RV sites with water and electricity, fire pits and tables, and to sweeten the deal, they offer half-priced swimming at the main pool (per day) for all RV guests. RV nightly rates (water and electric hookups) are $35 + tax, and the weekly rate is $175 + tax.
Dry RV Camping
Great Sand Dunes Recreation offers dry camping RV sites. These 10 sites come with a fire pit and table, making them the perfect base camp for exploring this natural wonder. Dry camping is a great way to get closer to nature, and with nightly rates at just $25 + tax, it’s an affordable option for families or groups.
Cabins
For those who love the outdoors but could do without the roughing it part, glamping is the perfect compromise. The on site cabin rentals offer all the beauty of nature with a few added creature comforts. Each cabin has a small foot pump sink and a port-a-potty right next to it, as well as access to their 24-hour bathroom/shower house just a quick walk away. This is the perfect way to experience all that camping has to offer without having to give up all the conveniences of home.
Tent Camping
The campground offers 10 gravel tent sites for a daily rate of $20 + tax, or a weekly rate of $100 + tax. Each site comes with a fire pit and table, and they offer a 1/2 price discount on swimming in the main pool.
Hooper Hacienda
This charming hacienda-style cabin is the perfect place to enjoy a getaway with family or friends. The cabin sleeps up to 10 guests in four bedrooms, making it ideal for larger groups. It is located just a few steps away from the resort’s pool facility, making it convenient for those who want to take a dip. The cabin also has a full kitchen and dining area, as well as a cozy living room with a fireplace. Outside, there is a patio area with furniture, perfect for enjoying the beautiful views. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun family vacation, this cabin is sure to please.
Best Hot Springs near Great Sand Dunes
If you find yourself in Hooper, Colorado, be sure to check out this family-owned sand dunes pool! Visitors can enjoy soaking in the natural waters year-round and enjoy stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range.
Whether you decide to soak in the healing water of the private pools or take a dip in the public ones, you’re sure to have an enjoyable experience.
Make sure to add the Hooper Hot Spring Pool to your list of must-visit places when you’re looking for incredible Colorado Hot Springs!
Other Hot Springs Posts you Might Enjoy: