The best hot springs to visit in NSW

Distance from Sydney: 720km

Best hot springs in NSW to visit at sunset

Located on the fringes of this opal mining town, these pools are considered to be some of the finest of the state’s naturally heated baths – which makes the fact that they are both free to access and open 24 hours a day even more remarkable. Percolating through the area’s unique geology (one of only a handful of places in the world where black opals can be found), the water in these bore baths takes almost two million years to reach the surface, fed by the aquifers of the Artesian basin that connect to the majority of the hot springs in Northern NSW. Once it bubbles up, it emerges at a blissful temperature of 40 degrees, rich in minerals and salts.

Where to stay: Bagala Cottage – a cute tiny house nearby – is available to book via Airbnb if you want to make a weekend of it.

Time Out tip: A dip after dark is a particularly popular local pastime, so we suggest, when in Lightning Ridge, do as the Lightning Ridgians do. It's also worth noting that the pools are temporarily closed for cleaning every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 10am and 12pm.

Distance from Sydney: 490km

Best hot springs in NSW for couples

There’s something faintly surreal about encountering this spring-fed pool, nestled in a quiet valley clearing within Kosciuszko National Park. This 20-metre concrete rectangle, with an attached kiddie's paddling pool, picnic area and well-manicured lawns, looks like your average community swimming centre, save for two crucial details. Firstly, it’s in the middle of dense bushland at least 75km from the nearest town, and secondly, it draws its waters from a reservoir over a kilometre beneath the ground. Warmed to a balmy 27 degrees, this gently mineralised hot spring pool can either be accessed from a nearby carpark, about 700 metres stroll away, or you can make it your reward for completing the three-kilometre River Walk hike.

Where to stay: Kestrel Nest Ecohut is a magical Airbnb nearby, and there's an outdoor bathtub so you can keep the open-air bathing going.

Time Out tip: Be sure to factor in a visit to the nearby caves – a 12km system with spectacular rock formations. It's also worth noting that these pools do get busy, so don't expect to have them to yourself.

Distance from Sydney: 600km

Best hot springs to visit in NSW with a group

NSW is blessed with hundreds of superb campgrounds, but at some of them, it can tough to find a warm shower, let alone a hot bath. Not so at the Burren Junction campgrounds, where the artesian waters of the bore baths are a delightful 41 degrees all year round. Aside from your $7 camping fee, access to the baths is absolutely free and they’re open 24-hours a day. The site also has a handy amenities block where you can find toilets, barbecue facilities, and filtered water. 

Where to stay: Looking for a few more creature comforts? This nearby farmstay is the perfect place to rest your head after a soak.

Time Out tip: The small community of Burren Junction is a 2km drive north, where you’ll find the local pub, the Burren Junction Hotel, and its excellent bistro, serving up classic modern Australian fare.

Distance from Sydney: 625km

The best hot springs in NSW to visit with kids

The people of this area have been enjoying the mineral-rich, naturally filtered waters of this hot spring since 1895 – when settlers seeking a reliable source of drinking water accidentally tapped into the Great Artesian Basin. The hot spring of mercurial water has been transformed into an impressive bathing complex – including an Olympic-sized pool, children’s “hydroplay” area, a wellness centre, gym, and a day spa. Now in 2026, hot off a $7-million redevelopment, you'll find a waterslide (open on school holidays) and Kids Splash Park, as well as a series of steaming hot pool areas.

Where to stay: This adorable cottage is the perfect rural idyll.

Time Out tip: Hungry post-dip? Beeline for 61 Balo for Moree's best brunch.

Distance from Sydney: 140km

Best hot springs in NSW close to Sydney

Perched on the slopes overlooking Lake Llyell, just north of Katoomba, is probably not where you’d expect to find a traditional Japanese onsen. And yet, once you cross the threshold of this authentic day spa and bath house, you’ll be left wondering if you’re not, in fact, looking out over the foothills of Mount Fuji. Using naturally mineralised water drawn from underground springs, the heated baths are infused with herbal treatments to soothe aching muscles and energise the soul. For the ultimate pampering, massages, skin treatments, and private baths are also available, and you can even stay in traditional Japanese accommodations on site if you want to make a weekend of it. This one's definitely on the pricier side, with three-hour passes from $110. 

Where to stay: The Blue Mountains is home to some truly magical cabins hiding in the hills if you're going full cosy-mode, The Lodge at Mt Kanimbla being one of our faves. You'll find our full guide to where to stay in the BMs here. 

Time Out tip: Booking in advance is essential, and it's recommended you allow six weeks' notice – not a spur-of-the-moment kinda spot.