Orr Hot Springs Resort – Ukiah, CA

Escape to the natural hot springs retreat of Orr Hot Springs, nestled in the heart of Mendocino County. This destination has been around for centuries and has seen many changes over the years, but remains a popular spot for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a large wooden sign that says “Orr Resort.” While the hot springs are not technically part of the resort, they are free to visit and open 24/7. Park your car and make your way to the tubs, just be respectful of their rules (which aren’t too strict).

Take in the beauty of this unique outdoor oasis, complete with a swimming pool and communal kitchen, perfect for those looking to enjoy the amenities of the Orr Hot Springs Resort. For those who prefer a more private setting, nearby clothing-optional hot springs resorts are available.

Explore the surrounding areas, including San Francisco and Montgomery Woods State Reserve. Don’t forget to take advantage of the untreated water at Orr Hot Sulphur Springs or one of the many cold pools scattered around the property.

For those looking to stay overnight, accommodations are available both inside and outside of the resort itself. An intentional community located on part of the property provides more private lodging options for those interested in getting away from it all.

The hot springs were first discovered by Native Americans who have since passed on their knowledge of how to enjoy them to generations of visitors. Along Orr Springs Road, there is even a post office that serves those who call this place home. Relax in the mineral-rich hot springs, take in some stargazing from the tubs, or simply enjoy the refreshing options at Orr Hot Springs Resort. Pack your swimsuit and towel and get ready for a truly magical experience.

The Orr Hot Springs Tubs

Orr Hot Springs Resort | Northern California
Orr Hot Springs Resort | Northern California

Immerse yourself in the warm mineral water of the Orr Hot Springs Tub, a large concrete pool that is fed by a hot spring. Enjoy the relaxing retreat as you soak in 7 ft deep water and take in the beautiful natural surroundings. The tub features a small waterfall, multiple faucets for adding water, and a raised bench that allows you to soak without having to bend over.

Experience stargazing like never before as you soak in the hot springs tub under the night sky. The hot springs are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, making it the perfect destination for your next hot springs trip. The Orr Hot Springs Tub is large enough for several people to soak at once, but if you want some privacy, visit early in the morning or late at night.

The Hot Springs Tub With Rocks

Hot Springs with Rocks at Orr Hot Springs Resort
Hot Springs with Rocks at Orr Hot Springs Resort

Orr Hot Springs Resort also offers another hot springs tub, the rocks tub, which is fed by a smaller spring that emits a temperature of 104-108 degrees Fahrenheit. This tub is larger than the first one and has a rock wall built into it with stairs leading up to the hot water. While this tub is not as popular as the first one, you can still enjoy a relaxing hot springs experience here during off-peak hours.

If you’re looking for a hot springs getaway, Orr Hot Springs Resort is the perfect destination. The resort offers hot springs baths, beautiful pools, and a cold water pool for those who want to cool off. You can also enjoy communal pools or opt for clothing-optional hot springs. The resort is queer-owned and offers a hot spring spa for those who want to indulge in some pampering. The hot springs range in temperature from 104-105 degrees Fahrenheit to 107-108 degrees Fahrenheit, with some pools ranging from 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Visit Orr Hot Springs Resort in Ukiah, CA for a hot spring experience like no other. Enjoy the warm pools, beautiful surroundings, and relaxing retreat that is perfect for your next vacation.

Trees Growing Over the Hot Springs

Big trees at Orr Hot Springs Resort
Big trees at Orr Hot Springs Resort

One of the most interesting things about Orr Hot Springs is that the hot springs are so large and have been around for so long that the surrounding redwoods have grown directly over the springs. The trees literally grow right out of the springs and it’s an amazing sight to see.

If you’re lucky (or patient), you’ll get to see a few people climbing around in these massive trees. These adventurous souls have attached ropes to the trees, secured them to their harnesses, and are able to climb around in them like it’s no big deal.

The trees that surround the springs give an unrefined, rustic feel to the area. There are no manicured lawns, no concrete walkways, and no buildings. The hot springs are surrounded by dirt and trees, and you’ll likely be sharing the grounds with deer, bunnies, and various birds.

Orr Hot Springs is one of the few places where you can observe nature while soaking in a natural hot spring. It’s a unique experience that is unlike visiting any kind of resort spa.

The tub itself has a large wooden deck around it with some benches. There’s plenty of space to spread out your towel so you can get settled in comfortably. Also, there are plenty of trees around the tub area so you can set up your towels without worrying about sun exposure (though much of the area gets some sun during the day).

Be aware that there’s a small amount of poison oak around the hot springs (as it is in many places in Ukiah). It doesn’t grow right up to the tubs, but rather is off in the distance along the edges of the property. So if you’re one who likes to soak in your birthday suit, be sure to cover up with a towel or two. You can also soak with your swimsuit on and then just dry off before putting your clothes back on.

Orr Hot Springs From Above

Orr Hot Springs is located in Ukiah, California, just a short drive from Willits on the property of Orr Meadows Resort. The resort features a large RV park and cabin rentals, as well as numerous lakes for fishing and hiking trails.

There is no fee to visit the hot springs at Orr Meadows, though there are some rules that you should be aware of before you go. The most important rule is to be respectful of the springs and other guests by not bringing alcohol or glass containers. Additionally, bathing suits must be worn at all times (though this rule is mainly for men).

Orr Hot Springs is a great place to relax and unwind with your friends and family members. There are no lifeguards on duty, so it’s up to you to watch out for yourself and those around you (which can actually be a good thing, as people tend to be more careful when they aren’t being watched over).

Orr Hot Springs has three soaking tubs in total. The largest tub is a large metal tank that can hold several people at once. This tub also features an electric heater that makes the water quite comfortable during both summer and winter months. The other two tubs are smaller wooden structures built above the large tank. These smaller tubs have no heaters, but they are still quite relaxing with natural soothing hot water coming up from below.

Lodging & camping

The Property - Orr Hot Springs Resort
The Property – Orr Hot Springs Resort

At the Orr Hot Springs Resort, guests have the option of either camping or staying in one of the various rooms. On the premises, visitors have the option to rent one of several sleeping accommodations, including yurts, cabins, rooms, campsites, and even The Creekhouse.

Each one requires a minimum stay of multiple nights, in addition to having expenses associated with bathing and the usage of communal facilities. Campers have until 6 o’clock to check in and begin setting up their sites for the night.

There is also room for one vehicle to camp close to the restrooms at this location. In the main parking lot, sleeping in vehicles is not permitted at any time.

Side notes

As you pull up to the hot springs, you’ll see a small parking lot on your right. There is no fee to park here, but only a few spots are available. The majority of the parking is found down the road at the Orr Resort.

If you do park here, be sure to be respectful of their rules as stated on the sign. The sign is there to protect the hot springs so please follow their wishes.

You can either walk down a short dirt road or walk down an old gravel road that’s now overgrown with grass. Either way, it will lead you to an area where several private tubs are surrounded by a wooden fence.

The hot springs are about 20 yards away from the road and fence, so privacy is limited. This doesn’t mean it’s not a beautiful area as there are plenty of trees and vegetation that surround the springs.

You may notice there is a large blue tarp covering one of the spring areas. There was some flooding in 2017 that caused some damage to the area and it has not been restored yet, but everything else is still usable (there are 8 different areas in total).

Bottom line

In conclusion, if you’re looking for something more upscale with hotel amenities, then this isn’t the place for you. However, if you love being outdoors in nature and soaking in a natural hot spring surrounded by trees and wildlife, then Orr Hot Springs Resort is one of the best places to visit in Northern California

Weather forecast for next 5 days

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Local information

Address: 13201 Orr Springs Rd, Ukiah, California 95482
GPS: 39.229961,-123.366378
Phone: 707-462-6277
Season: Year-round
Website: orrhotsprings.org

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Anne

Anne

Anne loves to explore the world and share her experiences through her blog. She loves to travel to places that are off the beaten path and find unique experiences to share with her readers. She also loves to share tips on how to make the most of a trip, from budgeting to activities. She hopes that her blog will inspire others to explore the world and enjoy the beauty of nature.