We recently stayed at Desert Reef Hot Springs in the Prismatic Airstream for one night. Overall, we really enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and the uniqueness of staying in an Airstream - it's such a fun concept and the property itself is beautiful and relaxing. The hot springs themselves were absolutely gorgeous. The aesthetic is so cute and thoughtfully done, and I loved how uncrowded it felt during our visit. It made the whole experience even more peaceful and special. The showers near the hot springs were also pretty clean, which we really appreciated. That said, there were a couple things that kept it from being a full 5 stars. The cleanliness inside the Airstream wasn't quite what we expected, especially considering the hefty cleaning fee listed on the receipt. There were noticeable signs that it hadn't been fully refreshed between guests - including residue on the bathroom floor near the toilet, visible hair on the ground, and lip marks left on one of the mugs. It just didn't feel completely turned over, which was disappointing. There was also some confusion regarding the billing. I reached out through both email and the "contact us" section of the website but haven't received a response yet. The receipt lists two separate cleaning fees (one for $45 & one for $48.34), and the confirmation email shows an "Accommodation Outstanding: -$45.00," which made it a bit unclear how the charges were applied. I completely understand if the total cleaning fee is $95 -I would just appreciate confirmation and a quick clarification/reply back for peace of mind. Despite those issues, the overall setting is incredibly serene and the hot springs were truly the highlight of the stay. With a bit more attention to detail on the Airstream cleaning and clearer billing, this would easily be a 5-star experience. We'd definitely consider returning for a day soak with the relaxing atmosphere. read more

Desert Reef Hot Spring - Hot Springs Near Me - Florence, Colorado

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The Desert Reef Hot Springs is a great day getaway to relax and soak in a few pools. My friend from college mentioned this hot spring to me and being a fish out of water I immediately agreed to go. I picked him up and on the way there he mentioned that clothing was optional. We got to the Hot springs and and there is a strict no cell phone war. We were told that we either have to leave ourselves in the car or at the front desk with the management. There were personal changing rules, each one had a shower attached to it. There's enough space to put your belongings in do your make up or completely. Get ready if you want to go out after. There were five pools total each one was hotter than the next. The biggest pool was the coolest and you could swim in the pool the rest of the pools that hotter and hotter. The hottest pool is almost unbearable to sit in. Also you have to watch out for all the older hippies walking around naked, try as best as you can to not stare. The people who work there are really nice and they tend to the entire place very well. Everything is very clean. I do like that there is a gift shop at the entrance. I would like to go back. I may join the hippies in being nude. read more

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The drive down from Denver is an easy one with smooth roads until you get to their property. Even then driving a reasonable speed keeps you from kicking up dust. Our check in was simple. The staff was friendly. The pools were clean and temperature was good for me. People for the most part were respectful of the using a quiet voice. Some just don't know how to use a quiet voice. Different pool options allowed me to get away from those who couldn't control their mouth. They have some drinks and a few snacks available so bringing your own is best. The only water station is at the entrance. For the price I was very comfortable and will return. read more

Came here from Maine to soak in the healing waters of this beautiful desert oasis. The vibe was definitely calm and relaxing and peaceful. All the staff here were very friendly and welcoming including the dogs! The springs felt incredible! I definitely want to return soon! read more

What an amazing experience. We had the opportunity to spend two nights on site in one of their airstream trailers. It was cozy, clean, well equipped, and supplied for a rustic adventure. The Hot Springs, was amazing. Quiet, serene and relaxing. can't wait to go back again. read more

Desert Reef Hot Spring - Hot Springs Near Me - Florence, Colorado

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Several separate pools to choose from. Everyone was very friendly. The employee gave us the rules lecture, which we appreciate. The rules aren't much different than the other adult only hot springs we've been to. It was a great value for the price. read more

OMG now I've been to a lot of hot springs but this was THE BEST!!! We went for sunset and it was an absolutely epic vibe and experience. Very clean and peaceful love the Vibe! read more

The hot springs is great but we will NOT stay at the property again. They refused to manage the temperature of the private pool included with the tiny home so it was way too hot and we couldn't use it at all during our stay. We asked them multiple times to STOP adding hot water and they said "ok" but then did nothing to stop it. The pool never got below 108F and was often much hotter. Poor mismanagement that lost our business, we will never stay there again. As an update, they comped me a few dollars after posting this review so I'm improving the review. read more

This hot spring has a lot of rules and regulations. No phones, no pictures, basically no talking or you will be shushed. Despite all of that, I still really enjoyed the hot springs and found them to be really well maintained. The water is a beautiful color, there is no sulphur smell and the whole facility is very nice. There are little boxcar type structures that have restrooms, showers and changing rooms which is very nice. You can also buy snacks and drinks inside! It's $25 for a 2.5hr soak and I think it's worth it to try. It was overcast when I came but normally there would be a great view of the Sangre de cristo mountains. read more

Desert Reef Hot Spring - Hot Springs Near Me - Florence, Colorado

In Colorado Springs for long weekend and family did not want to come. I decided to purchase suit and towels and stuff, buti was not allowed in sincei don't have a "chaperone". I'm a 50 year old male. Not sure if it is homophobia or what, but they need to share this more clearly in the website! He said it is question under FAQs! Find another spot, looks sketchy anyway! read more

Ronnie (we think that was her name) was absolutely amazing!!! She is the sweetest girl and made she we were having the best time for the entirety of our stay. She kept us extremely comfortable and made sure we understood any rules set in place were only to ensure the comfortability of anyone and everyone staying with Desert Reef. The morning staff was just as amazing and attentive to us. We will absolutely be returning and have been recommending this place to all of our friends! Best staff we've encountered in a long time :)) Make sure to give them a visit read more

Desert Reef Hot Spring - Entrance area - Hot Springs Near Me - Florence, Colorado

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I would give this place a zero if I could. We were unable to make our reservation and requested a refund about 1 week prior to our reservation. it has been difficult to get in contact with anyone, every phone call we make, we are told a manager would reach out to us. every communication goes unanswered. read more

This is our second trip to Desert Reef (unfortunately, it's too far away from us to drop by more often) Location - This part of Colorado has raw natural beauty. DRHS is in a remote location surrounded by that beauty. You genuinely feel removed from civilization there, which adds much to the experience and the opportunity to wind down and let the rest of the world go away for a few hours. DRHS has put a lot of effort into ensuring a private environment that is relaxing and peaceful. DRHS is very well maintained, with private showers, some man-made shade, and snacks and beverages to purchase. Staff - The DRHS staff is very friendly and accommodating. We found them very pleasant and helpful. They check the water temperatures often. When we were there, one of the pools was around 113 degrees, and they lowered it quickly (though I liked the 113). Pools - The pools are a variety of sizes and temperatures, from 104 to 110 degrees, if I remember correctly. They are clean and well-maintained, with the largest pool having some man-made shade. They could use a few more chairs. The smaller pools seem to be warmer. We stopped by all of them, but mostly hung around the large pool for the shade and the quiet conversations we had with some very nice couples we met. Nudity - DRHS has a clothing-optional policy. When we were there, about half the people went nude. For us, hot springs like DR cannot truly be enjoyed in baggy swim trunks and swimsuits; your freedom of movement is lessened, and your body is inhibited from fully absorbing those healthy minerals. Being nude helps you feel fully immersed in the environment, with no barrier between your skin and the open air, water, and surrounding landscape. It is a feeling of freedom like no other and about as relaxing as it gets in this busy, complicated world. To that end, DRHS has created an environment where you can go nude without a care or judgment and truly be at peace. Some reviewers complain about the nudity and the lack of alternate times for people who choose to remain clothed. This is odd, as you can go just about anywhere. I don't know why seeing other people enjoying themselves nude is offensive; they are simply taking full advantage of their time there and enjoying all the benefits of the "clothing optional" hot springs. I've never seen a review from a person who went naked complaining about people keeping their suits on. Relax. Live, and let live. Overall - Everyone should try to take advantage of this experience. When we leave DRHS, we are relaxed and rejuvenated. I wish we lived closer; we'd certainly be there more often. Kudos to the staff for the upkeep and for creating a place that is so relaxing and peaceful! We'll be back as often as possible. BTW, bring some sunscreen. It's no fun burning those parts of you that seldom see the sun! read more

Is is amazing place an also we saw them changing water after 10 pm which is more healthy and front desk were kind a nice .. Denver actually have some raciest around but this place is good . Thy treat same . Thank you . I respect such people an appreciate. read more

We loved our stay at Desert Reef. We stayed in one of the tiny homes and it was so cute. The unit was super hot when we first entered (wish they would have started cooling it off before we got there) but the a/c unit worked very well and kept us cool throughout the night. We were there in April and it wasn't especially hot so not sure if that would be more of an issue during hotter months. I was surprised to find that none of the tiny homes have showers. Obviously that was in the pictures but I just must not have even noticed. We were only there for one night so it wasn't a big deal. They have showers right near the pools. Food - there is no food available at Desert Reef. If you're staying overnight be prepared for this!! The tiny home we stayed in had a microwave, coffee maker and small refrigerator. We found 3 places on DoorDash that we were able to get delivery from - pizza place, Asian place, and fast food burger place. Dollar general was also an option on there. We ordered from the pizza place and we were able to get gluten free crust for this gluten free girl so that was exciting! Desert Reef is BYOB so we just brought our own wine and brought some cheap cups with lids we picked up at the dollar store so we could take our wine to the pools. It wasn't too far to get there off the main road at all. Location was fine. Especially since we headed out to Cañon City to ride the train the next day. It was only about 20 or 25 mins to Cañon City. But be prepared, the road out to Desert Reef is super bumpy dirt road. We were glad we had rented a 4 Runner for the weekend. The pools were so nice. The lady upfront recommended that we spend sunset in one of the 3 pools to the left as the view was better from there and then move over the the main pool for stargazing. It is clothing optional. People did go fully nude, although when we first got there around 5PM no one was partaking in this, but we noticed throughout the evening more and more did. We had never been anywhere like this before but didn't find it to be uncomfortable at all. And there are absolutely no phones allowed at the pool. (Remember this if you order food for delivery. I made sure to wear my Apple Watch for this reason). (I was able to snap some pics since we were staying there and I snagged some before other people were around). Overall we would absolutely recommend Desert Reef and had a great time. read more

Desert Reef Hot Spring - Hot Springs Near Me - Florence, Colorado

The pools are nice but the airstreams are freezing. One needs more blankets. Only a hot plate for cooking and you have to unplug heaters, when the hot plate or the electric water kettle is in use as it blows out the breaker. You absolutely cannot use both the kettle & the hot plate at once. The only wired heater freezes up when needed the most. The people are very nice & try their best to accommodate guests, but I have been cold all night & into the morning. read more

front desk worker was less than accommodating. We drove two hours to visit the springs and would not help us to fix our appointment. For a place that claims good spiritual energy this really brought us down read more

I love this place. It is set back of a dirt road in Florence. They did a lot of upgrades during the pandemic and it is looking great. There is a large pool and then 4 other small pools. Each pool is kept at differing temperatures (so you can pick the temp you want). It is clothing optional most days, although if this bothers you know that 2/3 of the people just wear bathing suits. It is a low key place. It is even BYOB (right now). So if you want a beer in the pool, just bring it along and be sure it isn't in a glass container. They ask that you don't make out, smoke or speak too loudly in the pools. It is also nice because they take reservations for sets of times so it is never overly packed. I do find the water super relaxing. 2 hours here and I feel loose and relaxed. The only thing that needs improvement (and they are actively working on it) is better bathroom/changing rooms. Last time we went there were only 2 bathrooms working and it felt like at all times there was someone in there, so it would be great to have more just to be able to go pee! I can live with changing in the open, as it doesn't bother me but I need a toilet from time to time! read more

Had an absolutely lovely experience at the Desert Reef Hot Springs. This was my first time at a spring like this and it's evident from the moment you arrive that the owners take a lot of pride and care in this place. We had reservation at night and it was not overly crowded ever. There are 5 pools at varying temperatures but it was so relaxing and clean facilities. It wasn't too loud or rambunctious. They sell some beverages and snacks and you can byob just no glass. Looks like they're working on getting some alcohol as well. Only tip is to bring towels or a robe - we had to rent towels and wish we had thought of that. Wish I could come back but I live in a whole other state! read more

This resort is supper nice. The airstreams are well maintained and fun. Prismatic is updated and modern with lots of space. Raja is a bit more classic and still super comfy. The staff are friendly, kind, helpful, and offer great customer service. The patrons are smiling and friendly too. The best part is the clothing optional minus any creepers. I just need to find out the story behind the alien abduction on their logo read more

Amazing place with a wonderful staff! So peaceful and relaxing. Cannot wait to go back

I've been to quite a few free and paid hot springs - some you must hike to and some outside of my hotel room but this is prob one of my favorites!! The location is out there, no matter what direction you come from, but that's why it's great! I arrived with 2 male friends and we brought our own towels (bring flip flops!! We didn't bring sandals bc it was last minute and that was bad for us). The facility is simple - a small lobby, a row of private restroom/changing areas and then 5 hot tub pools. Each pool had a different temperature that ranged from 99-107. It was fun figuring out which was which! My group went at night and the stars were beautiful and you could hear the coyotes howling. Even though it's an open space, you can't tell others are with you unless they are being loud (that's how we could tell there was a pool to the right of us). Very intimate and a great place to swing by for a relaxing evening. read more

i absolutely loved this place, it was just perfect. The place is serene and beautiful, theres 5 springs to try. It was so relaxing and nourishing it was hard to leave. The staff was above and beyond and I'd recommend it to anyone! read more

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Traveled for the day from colorado springs. A great hidden gem. Not crowded at all and very serene in the left side pools away from the main pool. read more

Best place for relaxing the staffs are friendly and the pools are clean and comfortable

Really awesome place. Super relaxing and quiet. It is not a party place at all (they will tell you this much). They are still remodeling but it looks amazing already. Feels like a resort you might see in a travel magazine. Honestly my tips are that it was that it was hard to know when the reservations would open up online which probably has to do with the remodeling. Also, they might consider adding a bit more shade, even over one of the pools because people tend to crowd toward wherever there is any. Bring your own sunscreen. We forgot it and they didn't have any for sale (yet-we were told they plan to). They do have some snacks, drinks and merchandise. Really appreciated the humorous signs. You can tell a lot of thought has gone into it. Phones aren't allowed so no pics from me but check the website! read more

Love them!! Everybody I've ever met at the front desk has been wonderful and friendly! And not just plain-vanilla-customer-service people, they've usually got a good sense of humor on top of it. Love the vibe!! It's beautiful and the springs are so refreshing, especially on a cool evening. I love the variety of events they hold as well! read more

The vibe was pure relaxation! It is an amazing oasis not too far from Denver. We stayed in one of the airstream campers. It was sooooo quiet! We watched the sunrise, cooked up a tasty breakfast and took a long dip in the hot springs pool before we hit the road home. We will return! read more

We went to Desert Reef over the weekend and was pleasantly surprised by the raw beauty of this location. It Is located outside Florence Colorado along HWY 110. (Look for the cactus sign) You enter through a small building that serves as a welcome area with some bottled water, a few snacks and merchandise. The guy behind the counter gave us a rundown of the rules designed to give visitors a relaxed, quiet experience. The staff was friendly and though we arrived early, they invited us to go on in. You can use one of ten, maybe twelve changing rooms with toilets and showers. There was a bit of construction going on but nothing to detract from the atmosphere. There is a large pool to the right along with a smaller pool. They have a large awning to create some shade which was good for a break from the heat, plenty of lounge chairs to relax in the shade or in the sun. There are three additional pools down a short cement pathway all different temps. Desert Reef is clothing optional every day except Friday. I've seen a couple reviewers take offense to the nudity. If you don't want to see nudity, you have your choice of every municipal pool in the country, most spas, other hot springs and of course every Friday at Desert Reef. I'm not sure why people want to go to a clothing optional place if nudity is a problem for them? We went natural as did at least a third of the visitors. It was completely relaxing and invigorating. I'm not sure it would be possible to connect with nature and have the same revitalizing experience in a swimsuit - but to each his own. It was amazing how quickly we became comfortable in this setting. The surrounding landscape added an element of quietness with the sun, wind and chirping birds as a backdrop. It is truly unique and restful. Be sure to bring the items they suggest on their site as well as some bug spray, sunscreen and your adult beverage of choice in plastic containers. We had a great time and will be visiting again. It's far enough away from us that we cannot visit as often as we like. It will be a great weekend stop from time to time. We highly recommend Desert Reef! read more

I mostly love this place, this review is for the new COVID policies which are not posted on their website rules nor the FAQ online, nor are you told about them if you call ahead. The cost of admission for a daily soak is $20 which is posted and otherwise well worth it However that now really only guarantees you two hours. You are told upon entering that due to COVID headcount restrictions that "potentially" you will have to leave after that time if the pool reaches a 20 person capacity limit in order to allow new people in. I get and even appreciate that times are tougher now that they have to cap the head count at less than half capacity (the website still reads 60 people max), and that kicking people out to allow new people in nets them more money than simply giving preference to those already there who have paid which may help to offset the financial loss. But this lack of transparency leaves a bad taste, particularly as there is no way to know about it until you after you get there. You are given a wristband with your time of arrival, so this is a pretty well established new policy. And no, you aren't given any kind of a refund or recourse if you are forced to leave early, and I posit how many people would legitimately drive for hours if the knew that they could "potentially" not be able to soak all day/night? To be clear, we called prior to coming and checked the website because COVID has changed a lot of things. We were not told this, nor did we see it on the website, so that's my biggest gripe. Fortunately, we were able to stay for four hours, but everytime the attendant came around we expected it was to make us leave, which was less than tranquil. Just be up front and transparent with this policy, and make it clear *before* people get there. I probably would have gone ahead and came because I want to support helping the site stay open...but for me, I prefer the chance to be charitable rather than forcing a policy on me and not telling me about it up front. It really is a wonderful place, and I absolutely love going there else. The water was so warm and relaxing, and the atmosphere surprisingly chill for clothing optional. Id you have any sort of arthritic paint or joint issues, you will weep with happiness at how much this will help. The staff was otherwise polite and helpful, and they are taking a great effort to stay open during these challenging times, which I support. I suggest perhaps temporarily offering hourly pricing with an option for all night soaking at an increased rate in the interim to offset losses from the decreased headcount ~ but at the least give people who are driving a long way (and this is most everyone) some option to make the drive worth it. read more

Desert Reef Hot Spring - Time stamped wristband which now *potentially* limits your soaking time to two hours. - Hot Springs Near Me - Florence, Colorado

If I could give desert reef more than 5 starts I would! This place is a true relaxing getaway- friendly staff, clean facilities and an all around great place to be! Bring bug spray but otter than that this place has all you need. Highly recommend! read more

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This is now an incredible hot springs ranking up there with the absolute best. The remodel is better than I would have done or thought to do and the ample use of Steel, timbers, stone and glass compliment the surroundings beautifully. The soft reopening is just that so expectations need to stay within that of a soft reopening until everything is completed. The vision to take this place into an almost too luxurious feel while maintaining a local flair is perfect. Congratulations and much success to the owners who had the foresight to bring such a deserving place up to this level. read more

We went for the 7pm start time. We got to experience the springs in the day light and the magic of being under the stars. It was peaceful and the staff was friendly. I would highly recommend this spring! Will go back. read more

I was out on a work trip and was informed because i was a male and didn't have a girl with me I wasn't allowed in. I thought he was joking. After an awkward interaction I saw he was serious. I drove 45 mins to find out they they wouldn't allow my buddies and I in. If you are a male this place is not for you. read more

I loved it! We stayed overnight in a newly renovated airstream and spent a couple of hours soaking in the hot springs. I would highly recommend staying and soaking in these springs! read more

Desert Reef Hot Spring - Airstream - Hot Springs Near Me - Florence, Colorado

excellent facility, easy, not too small or big, with clear clean blue hot spring water. Unlike the competitor down the street, this facility is managed by good people who often check on the water to make sure it's hot enough to everyone's liking. $20 per person, a bit much for a small place but it's the quality and people that go there counts. They do have a membership here but I am not sure what the terms are. You can also purchase a 6 times punch card pass for $90, which drops the price of each visit down to $15, which can be used for your friends and family as well. They also have a cute Bernese mountain dog here who walks about saying hello to people. Certain days clothing is optional. Review update: I've been coming here multiple times now and have been recommending it to my friends and family. They all really love this place. read more

Desert Reef Hot Spring - banner - Hot Springs Near Me - Florence, Colorado

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I've been going to desert reef for almost as long as they have existed. Love the place. They have very strict rules, and as a woman, in that kind of a clothing optional setting, I have always felt very safe and respected. I appreciate all the owners that they have had and I appreciate the respect for the people that go there. Anyone who does not see the value in that does not belong there. Michele A read more

I have never had a problem with desert reef! I have had friends that felt weird or weren't happy with the clothing optional days but other than that it really is a nice and relaxing hot spring. It is on the smaller side. They have a big pool area and then on the other side 3 small tubs that fit about 5-6 comfortably. read more

The vibe here is immaculate! So secluded and the perfect weekend relaxation! The staff was fantastic!

Definitely coming back! Loved how it was its own little are! The airstreams were clean and comfortable! The hot springs were amazing!