Known for its pleasant scent and silky texture, the mineral water that flows into Moccasin Springs has been regarded as a healing center for over 125 years. Located in Hot Springs, a town known for its sand-stone buildings and pristine natural environment, this spa lies in the Southern Black Hills of South Dakota and is the perfect getaway destination for relaxation and nature exploration.
While the original structures that once stood have long been shut down, the current owners have done their best to preserve and maintain as much of the rich history as possible. The original bathhouse and Hot Springs Hotel were constructed in 1890 and remained in operation until 1963. Recently acquired in 2014, Moccasin Springs has undergone major restoration and rebuilding.
The Mineral Spring Pools
Within Moccasin Springs you will find a bathhouse, pool house, hot pools, and the original, yet to be renovated, 1913 pool. Excluding the 1913 pool, each pool has been renovated to maintain the spas high standards seen throughout the property. There are also plans in place for additional improvements and upgrades in the coming years.
Some of the amenities offered at Moccasin Springs include:
The Bathhouse
The bathhouse contains a private room with a soaking tub, available by appointment only. When soaking, you not only have full control over the temperature of the tub but also can stay in for as long as you would like. The cast iron tub is infused with mineral salts and sprinkled with rose petals to deepen your state of relaxation.
There are also 2 changing rooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1 outdoor shower within the bathhouse area.
The Pool House
The pool house is kept at 90 degrees F and allows visitors to relax by the fire between soaks. Outside of the pool house, you will find the Moccasin Pool, which is filtered through a natural red rock formation and kept at 93 degrees F. Regarded as the shining gem of the Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa, the Moccasin, or Earthing Pool, has been used since the indigenous times.
The 1913 Pool
The 1913 pool was aptly constructed in 1913, 23 years after the original bathhouse was built. It is the largest pool on-site and stays at a constant 88-90 degrees F, year-round, thanks to the underground thermal heating that pushes the water to the surface.
Note: To access the 1913 pool from the Moccasin Pool, you can swim through the large archway connecting the two.
If you are searching for a view of the gardens and hillside, there are 2 more hot pools at Moccasin Springs offering an immersive nature experience all while soaking in mineral-rich water. Ranging in temperature from 98-102 degrees F, these pools are hot year-round and a great place to soak while gazing up into the star-filled night sky.
Gift Shop and Restaurant
At the Moccasin Springs gift shop, you will find a wide selection of snacks, organic salads, and souvenirs to take with you. From travel mugs and tote bags to embroidered towels and bathrobes, there is plenty of memorabilia and gift options.
Additionally, the Buffalo Dreamer restaurant is located on-site and has a plethora of healthy dining options. Guests can choose between a scrumptious organic salad or take a look at the full dinner menu. They offer wine pairings with all their evening meals and reservations are recommended.
Events and Retreats
There are several events and retreats held at the Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa with most of them focused on body and soul awareness and healing. The cost and schedule will vary according to the event, but lunch is provided with the option to soak at an additional fee.
On the second Sunday of each month, Moccasin Springs host the 5 Elements Dance, which is a guided movement experience that is focused on the 5 elements. Make sure to check out this unique experience when planning your stay.
Yoga at Moccasin Springs
There are a variety of different yoga teachers and practitioners who hold classes covering a wide range of yoga modalities. From 30-minute Chair Yoga to Forest Yoga and Kundalini, there is a class for everyone, regardless of age, experience, or flexibility! They also have punch card deals so that you can take advantage of savings when buying in bulk.
One of their most popular packages is the ‘Yoga +Soak’, where you get to enjoy a guided yoga class followed up by a natural mineral water soak.
Massage and Treatments
When it comes to mental relaxation, physical rejuvenation, and all-around healing, Moccasin Springs has you covered! They not only supply pristine mineral hot springs to keep you feeling relaxed but also offer an assortment of massage packages and spa treatments.
Combing oil and lotion with specific essential oils, their Aromatherapy Treatments will do wonders for your peace of mind. You can combine this with a chair massage, which will work to relieve muscle stress and tension, as a great way to enjoy your time between soaks.
The spa offers a myriad of massage packages and services to choose from, including Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, Integrative Therapy, Healing Touch, Swedish Massage, Myofascial Release, Reiki, and Polarity Therapy. Each one focused on a different method of relaxation and healing, dependent on the individual’s specified needs.
For those who enjoy a little foot pampering, Moccasin Springs also offers an incredible Spa Foot Treatment. This service includes a mineral water soak, where your nails are trimmed and shaped, followed by a cuticle grooming and exfoliation. A mask is then applied to your feet before being wrapped in a warm compress.
Accommodations
There are a few different ways you can enjoy the Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa. You can stop by for a drop-in soak, enjoying any of their hot pools with no appointments necessary. Furthermore, you can call ahead to reserve any of their spa treatments and massages. This is a popular choice for those who live in town or are just passing through and looking for a relaxing diversion from the road.
There are several different lodging options when you want to stay overnight near the Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa.
The Bluebird Mesa Cabins
This 12-acre expanse of land, located above Evans Plunge, has 4 studio cabins available as well as the Bluebird Mesa Earth Home and 3 tent sites. The Bluebird Mesa Cabins, are open year-round and give a beautiful view of the centuries-old Historic Veterans building. Beyond that is the Seven Sisters Mountain Range, a breathtaking sight that is the perfect backdrop for porch lounging and outdoor activities.
Located less than one mile from Moccasin Hot Springs, all cabins are furnished with queen beds as well as fully equipped kitchens, cable TV, HBO, and bathrooms with either a shower or bathtub/shower combo.
The Bluebird Mesa Earth Home
The 1800sq ft Bluebird Mesa Earth Home is a 3-bedroom, 1.5 bath house that is a great option for small workshops, weddings, reunions, and other gatherings. Built into the earth, this lodging stays cool in the summer and offers great insulation in the winter. The house has 5 beds ranging in size from a king to trundle and boasts an office space to make yourself feel at home.
Note: This property is available from May through December.
Tents
Located near Bluebird Mesa are three comfortable tents, giving you a more adventurous experience to your Moccasin Springs stay.
The tents come with two twin beds, sheets, blankets, bathroom toiletries such as towels, shampoo, and soap, as well as a small deck with chairs. A perfect place to put your feet up and watch the sunset as the fresh breeze rolls through the hillside, this charming spot is a great choice for those who are looking for a more ‘one with nature’ experience. For your convenience, there is also a restroom and laundry room around the corner.
Next to the tents is a common picnic area which has a picnic table, grill, and fire pit.
Rosita Bungalow
Located across from the Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa and is a 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom charming home with a front porch called the Rosita Bungalow.
The eat-in kitchen is fully equipped for all your cooking needs and the living room has a television and kiva fireplace. The bedrooms are furnished with a king and a queen bed, ceiling fans, and linens while the bathroom has a jetted tub, washer-dryer combo, and shower. There is a backyard area with seating, a small gas grill, and a grassy area for resting under the bright blue sky.
Whether you are looking to relax, rejuvenate, or immerse yourself in nature, plan a trip to Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa in Hot Springs, South Dakota!
Details
Address: 1829 Minnekahta Avenue, Hot Springs, SD 57747
Phone: 605-745-7625
Season: High Season (May-December) | Low Season (February-April)
Closed: January | Pool Closed During Low Season
Hours of Operation: High Season (8 AM – 8 PM, Wednesday – Sunday ) | Low Season – (11 AM – 5 PM, Friday – Sunday)
Ages: 18+
Website: moccasinsprings.com
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