Fremont County, Colorado
Dakota Hot Springs
Dakota Hot Springs is a natural geothermal facility about 5 miles north of Desert Reef Hot Spring in the Arkansas River valley of Fremont County, Colorado.
- Geothermal
- Commercial
About this place
Dakota Hot Springs is a natural geothermal facility about 5 miles north of Desert Reef Hot Spring in the Arkansas River valley of Fremont County, Colorado. The spring feeds pools at approximately 102°F in an open high-desert setting with mountain views. Like its southern neighbor Desert Reef, Dakota operates as a clothing-optional facility — the two springs together make this part of the Arkansas River valley a destination for Colorado naturists who want a dedicated C/O soaking experience without driving to the mountains.
The facility is smaller and simpler than Strawberry Park — it's a local, community-oriented operation rather than a tourism product. This means fewer amenities but a more regular-crowd, relaxed atmosphere. The surrounding Wet Mountain Valley and Fremont County terrain is dry, open, and distinctly Colorado Plateau in character — different from the alpine hot spring experience in the mountains.
Both Dakota and Desert Reef are accessible from US 50 east of Canon City, making them practical stops on a drive through central Colorado.
Visitor notes
Contributed by ClothingOptional.org Editorial Team
Who visits
Central Colorado naturists, Arkansas River Valley regulars, combined visits with Desert Reef Hot Spring to the south.
How to find it
From US 50, follow local directions to the Penrose area and northward toward Dakota Hot Springs in Fremont County. Call ahead for hours and access details.
Things to watch out for
Verify current operations before visiting — small facilities like this occasionally close temporarily for maintenance. Adults-only policy standard for C/O facilities.
Last updated
Etiquette & ground rules
Clothing-optional throughout the facility. Towel down, no photography, respect other guests.
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