Ohio! Home to the Buckeye Tree, Cincinnati Red Stockings (yes, they were a baseball team), the world’s largest cuckoo clock, and The River That Caught Fire (13 times!).
Know what else makes Ohio a grand holiday destination? Imagine immersing yourself in a mineral-rich spring in the middle of a forest and relaxing to the gentle, soothing sounds of nature.
If you went “Ahh…” then Ohio should be top of your holiday destination list! Here’s a quick peek at some of the most magical, breathtaking natural and hot springs in Ohio and why you should visit them.
Springs in Clark County
Galloway Spring
This beautiful hot spring is located near Cedar Falls Park and is one of Ohio’s most loved hot springs.
There’s plenty to do at Gallow Spring—from enjoying the pristine scenery to partaking in nature activities. The spring water is crystal clear and rich in minerals—you won’t find a more therapeutic natural spa!
From skin healing to complete body detox—you’ll love the effects of the water at Galloway Spring. We recommend you spend a day at this hot spring just to soak up the sights and relax.
Not sure where to find it? The spring is located at the end of a hiking trail and is very private. You’ll find a wooden structure, benches, and a privy for visitors.
Since Galloway Spring is extremely popular, you’ll want to show up early.
Layton Springs
Layton Springs is one of the largest and most beautiful hot springs in Ohio. The water is pumped in from a natural spring at an elevation of 2,000 feet. Although privately owned, it is a very popular hot spring. Yes, tourists can stay at a nearby hotel and enjoy everything this hot spring has to offer—from natural skin moisturizing and exfoliation to the picturesque views!
Partington Spring
Just a few miles from Galloway Spring, you’ll find Partington Spring. It’s much smaller than most hot springs, but it is more peaceful. When visiting, you can stay at Partington Spring House—a popular wedding venue spread across six acres of gorgeous land.
Partington Spring’s water is extremely clean, and the scenery is just stunning. Aside from this magical hot spring, you can enjoy the natural surroundings with your friends and family.
Stilwell Springs
If you love to hike, Stilwell Springs is for you. It’s a beautiful, secluded hot spring that’s also a popular hiking spot. The spring has experienced some changes in recent years and has been reborn as it once was.
The water at Stilwell is gorgeous, crystal clear, and sweet tasting. Not to mention, you’ll be able to take in the amazing views thanks to the lush greenery and teeming wildlife. It’s a great choice for families looking to spend the day relaxing together, learning more about the natural world, and feeling at one with nature.
Indian Spring
The Indian Spring trail is a popular hiking and biking destination for many tourists and locals. Many people in the area use the hot springs for an escape from their busy lives as well as a nice place to swim. It’s located on a 3.5-kilometer loop trail with heavy traffic. If you want something more secluded, we recommend checking out some of the other springs.
However, if you don’t mind sharing the space with others, then Indian Spring just might be the answer.
Springs in Adams County
Iron Spring
Dubbed Iron Spring because of its high iron content, the first on our list of springs in Adams County is fed by a natural water source located near the center of the glacial till and bedrock formations. The water here is amazingly soothing, and it’s said to have medicinal properties. The water is also very clear here and perfect for swimming.
The iron quantity in the water enhances your body’s ability to absorb minerals leading to several circulatory and metabolism-related benefits. It also promotes cell growth as well as heals wounds and muscle stiffness.
Since Iron Spring is privately owned, you’ll need to pay a small entrance fee. However, you can’t beat the price for the wellness benefits you’ll reap with just a day’s soak!
Sulphur Spring
Next up on our list of springs in Adams County, Sulphur Spring is a beautiful spring—perfect as a recreational and medicinal retreat. Although high in sulphuric content, the water is very clear and safe for swimming. Medically, Sulphur Springs is more than just a hot tub. The sulphuric content is so beneficial it’s termed as a “universal cure-all!” Not only will the heat soothe and relax your muscles, but you’ll also feel less pressure on your joints. Bathing in Sulphur Spring’s waters will also improve your hair, skin, and nails. It’s also said to enhance your tanning ability.
The spring is located near Crawford, so it’s convenient for travelers from all over the state.
Springs In Sandusky County
Saint Francis Springs
Not only is Saint Francis Springs in Sandusky County a great place to relax, but it’s also very scenic and beautiful. The area even features a walking path that’ll take you right through untouched nature. The water here is beautiful—it’s clear with a slightly green tint.
The spring is known for its high iron content, so you’ll enjoy the benefits of better blood circulation, freedom from skin problems, reduced stress, and overall body detox.
The spring has been used as a bathhouse and health resort for years. And though it offers indoor facilities, you’ll find that it’s much more relaxing and peaceful to be outside in nature.
Tan your skin and swim in the spring as you enjoy the relaxing sights around you.
Millers Spring
Located in Miller Sanctuary Nature Preserve, Millers Spring is one of a kind out of the springs in Sandusky County. Fed by an underground spring that exudes through a large limestone cave, Millers Spring is surrounded by gorgeous flora and fauna.
Since Millers Spring is located on lush landscapes, ensure you have plenty of time to spend here! You’ll find picnic tables, benches, and an outdoor pool to swim in.
Furthermore, there are many trails and caves near the spring, so be on the lookout for wildlife! Sightseeing, a picnic, animal sightings, a relaxing soak—could you have a more wonderful time?
Keep in mind that this is a nature reserve, so you’ll want to be very careful about how you interact with the wildlife and the ecosystem—they’re very strict about preservation and protection.
Springs in Greene County
Magnetic Spring
The first of the springs in Greene County is located in Bellbrook, Ohio. Magnetic Spring is located in an old limestone cave. The spring is very beautiful, and it sits at the base of a colorful hillside. You’ll love the picturesque landscape—looming trees, the greenest grass you’ve ever seen, gorgeous gazebos, and tiny wooden bridges connecting stream banks.
The water’s therapeutic properties include cell damage reversal, better glycemic control, skin and ulcer healing, and more!
Though it’s privately owned and operated, tourists can enjoy the spring.
Yellow Spring
There’s plenty to do in Yellow Springs—from exploring the Glen Helen Nature Preserve to enjoying homemade ice cream at the Young’s Jersey Dairy farm. You can also spend the day combing through quaint antique stores, comic book stores, art theater, distilleries, and breweries.
And, of course, there’s the Yellow Spring. Now included in the Glen Helen Preserve, you’ll find beautiful scenery as well as lush greenery surrounding Yellow Spring. It’s crystal clear and very warm, perfect for relaxing after a long day.
It’s a great spot for taking a dip and relaxing after a long day of hiking or other outdoor activities.
Springs in Hancock County
Created only about 200 years ago, Hancock County is known for its lush rolling hills, waterways, even a fjord! Among these pretty mounds lie some of the most serene hot springs. Take a peek at our list of springs in Hancock County.
Big Lick
Big Lick is a very popular sulfur spring for locals and tourists alike. And yes, the town and spring get their name from the numerous salt licks. Drop on by and enjoy adventurous tales of first settlers, explore the wilderness that was once a famous cattle range, the locals’ warm hospitality, and more!
Big Lick will surprise you—the water is perfectly clear and not muddy like some other springs. Plus, it’s very warm! There are plenty of benches to sit with friends and enjoy the scenery without needing to rush back to the hustle-bustle of life.
Big Spring
Untamed wilderness disturbed only by sleepy waterways. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? Enjoy all that and more when you visit Big Spring! Yes, it’s one of the larger hot springs in Ohio. Fed by an underground river, Big Spring is crystal clear and very warm.
To get to the spring, you’ll have to take a short hike through mesmerizing greenery.
Wrapping Up Natural and Hot Springs in Ohio
Ohio is home to many beautiful hot springs. Take a long weekend off to explore the landscape, immerse yourself in tales of adventure, frequent quaint antique shops, and relax in one or more hot springs!
Don’t forget to drop by and let us know if you visited any of these hot springs.
Ready to plan more Ohio adventures? Check out these destinations below:
- About the Author
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Hey there, I’m Ryan, the face behind Beyond The Tent.
With decades of camping experiences, my journey into the wilderness began on the rustic trails of a farm in southern Minnesota, where my childhood was filled with explorations and camping by a picturesque river.
My family’s adventures across the United States, from the majestic Colorado mountains to the serene national parks and the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area of Northern Minnesota have given me a broad perspective. With each journey, whether in state parks or private encampments, and through the homely comfort of our camping trailers, we’ve amassed a trove of stories, experiences, and invaluable camping wisdom.