Orient Land Trust/Valley View Hot Springs

For Coloradans seeking a truly distinctive and rejuvenating escape into nature, Orient Land Trust/Valley View Hot Springs in Moffat offers an experience unlike any other. This cherished destination is more than just a campground; it’s a living testament to environmental preservation, a haven for natural hot springs, and a unique community that embraces a clothing-optional philosophy. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the San Luis Valley, Valley View Hot Springs provides a serene backdrop for relaxation, exploration, and connection with the natural world, all while supporting the conservation efforts of the Orient Land Trust. Whether you're looking to soak away your worries, embark on a hiking adventure, or witness an incredible natural phenomenon, this special place invites you to unwind and discover the magic of Colorado's unspoiled wilderness.

Orient Land Trust (OLT) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of Valley View Hot Springs and its surrounding viewshed, including natural resources, wildlife habitat, agricultural lands, and historic features of the northern San Luis Valley. This commitment to conservation ensures that visitors can experience a truly pristine environment. Valley View Hot Springs itself is renowned for its diverse array of natural, undeveloped hot springs pools, ranging in temperature and accessibility. It's a place where you can choose your own adventure, from easily accessible soaking pools near the welcome center to more secluded, hike-in springs nestled along natural trails.

The ethos of Valley View Hot Springs is one of peace, respect, and a deep appreciation for nature. The clothing-optional policy across the entire property is integral to this philosophy, fostering an environment of comfort and freedom for guests to connect with themselves and their surroundings without inhibition. This unique aspect, combined with the stunning natural setting, creates a profoundly relaxing and liberating experience that draws visitors back time and again. It's a place where the stress of everyday life melts away, replaced by the calming sounds of nature and the warmth of geothermal waters.

For local Coloradans, Valley View Hot Springs represents a valuable and accessible opportunity to engage with the state's natural wonders in a truly unique way. It's a retreat where you can truly unplug, whether you prefer the simplicity of tent camping, the convenience of an RV site, or the rustic charm of historic cabins. Beyond the hot springs, the expansive property offers a myriad of activities, from exploring historic mines and observing bat flights to stargazing under some of the clearest night skies in the country. It's a testament to sustainable living, with its own hydroelectric power system, showcasing a commitment to ecological responsibility that resonates deeply with environmentally conscious locals.

Orient Land Trust/Valley View Hot Springs is located at 64393 County Rd GG, Moffat, CO 81143, USA. This address places it in a beautiful, somewhat secluded area within the San Luis Valley, at the base of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. While the setting offers a sense of remote tranquility, the property is remarkably accessible for Colorado residents.

To reach Valley View Hot Springs, visitors typically drive on County Road GG, which is a dirt road. As noted by a visitor, "It's dirt road to get to the springs," so drivers should be prepared for unpaved conditions, especially after adverse weather. However, this manageable dirt road adds to the sense of getting away from it all without being overly challenging for standard vehicles. The nearest towns for significant amenities like gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants are approximately 35 minutes away, emphasizing the peaceful isolation of the location. This means visitors should come prepared with their own food and supplies.

Despite its somewhat secluded feel, the location is well-positioned for exploring other Southern Colorado attractions. It is within a reasonable drive of the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, offering a contrasting yet equally stunning natural landscape. Nearby towns like Salida also provide additional opportunities for dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. For Coloradans, the drive to Valley View Hot Springs is part of the adventure, leading them to a truly unique destination that feels worlds away from urban life, yet is still within a comfortable reach for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

The relative ease of access to such a naturally rich and unique destination makes Orient Land Trust/Valley View Hot Springs a prime choice for locals seeking authentic Colorado experiences. The journey itself builds anticipation, culminating in the serene beauty and healing waters of the springs, making it a perfect retreat for those who appreciate both natural splendor and a peaceful environment.

Orient Land Trust/Valley View Hot Springs offers a diverse range of services and amenities designed to enhance the natural hot springs and camping experience, while adhering to its commitment to preservation and a unique, clothing-optional environment. These include:

• Natural Hot Springs Pools: Multiple unique, unchlorinated, spring-fed pools are scattered throughout the property, with varying temperatures and natural settings, ranging from easily accessible to hike-in secluded springs. These include a large spring-fed swimming pool, a natural hot tub, and several natural soaking ponds.
• Diverse Accommodations: The property provides various lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets:
  • Tent Camping Sites: Numerous sites available in wooded areas, often with picnic tables and tent pads, offering a classic outdoor experience. (Note: Tent camping is often no charge from October – May).
  • Vehicle / RV Sites: Designated primitive sites for vehicles and RVs, though typically without hookups, emphasizing a natural camping experience.
  • Rustic Cabins: Historic cabins, some pet-friendly, with geothermal heating, offering a more comfortable stay. These generally do not have private bathrooms.
  • Shared Houses/Dorm Beds: Options like the Oak House and Sunset House offer private rooms or shared dorm beds with access to communal kitchens and shared bathrooms.
• Clean Bathhouses: Communal, co-ed bathhouses with showers and toilets are available for all guests, maintained to a high standard of cleanliness.
• Sauna: A popular amenity for enhancing relaxation, often featuring a cool-plunge pool for contrast therapy.
• Communal Kitchens: Accessible to overnight guests, especially those in cabins or shared houses, often equipped with basics like a microwave and refrigerator, promoting community and convenience given the distance to grocery stores.
• Hiking Trails: An extensive network of trails connects the various hot springs pools and allows for exploration of the surrounding natural landscape.
• Welcome Center/Market: A central point for check-in, information, and a small store for essential items, snacks, and drinks. Wi-Fi is available in this area.
• Hydroelectric Plant Tours: Educational tours are offered to showcase OLT's off-grid hydroelectric system, demonstrating sustainable energy generation.
• Astronomy Program: Given the minimal light pollution, the Trust offers astronomy programs with telescopes, providing incredible stargazing opportunities.
• Orient Mine Bat Flights: During summer months, visitors can hike to the historic Orient Mine to witness Colorado's largest colony of Mexican Free-tailed bats emerge at dusk.
• Bodywork & Wellness: Massage, bodywork, and small yoga classes are sometimes offered, enhancing the relaxation experience (best to confirm availability and schedule).

Orient Land Trust/Valley View Hot Springs boasts a collection of distinctive features and highlights that set it apart as a premier Colorado destination:

• Natural, Untreated Hot Springs: The unparalleled quality of the spring-fed, untreated hot springs is the main draw. With multiple pools varying in temperature and natural settings, visitors can find their perfect soak, enjoying water free from chemical additives. As customers attest, the pools are "very relaxing" and offer a "magical experience."
• Clothing-Optional Environment: A defining characteristic, the property's clothing-optional policy fosters an atmosphere of body positivity, freedom, and deep relaxation. This unique aspect appeals to those seeking a truly uninhibited connection with nature and themselves, within a respectful community.
• Commitment to Conservation (Orient Land Trust): Being part of the Orient Land Trust means every visit contributes to the preservation of thousands of acres of critical wildlife habitat, open space, and natural resources. This aligns perfectly with the values of environmentally conscious Coloradans.
• Spectacular Views and Dark Skies: The location at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the expansive San Luis Valley. At night, the lack of light pollution offers some of the best stargazing in Colorado, with opportunities for guided astronomy sessions.
• Orient Mine Bat Colony: A truly unique natural spectacle, the historic Orient Mine on the property hosts Colorado's largest migratory colony of Mexican Free-tailed bats. Witnessing the nightly bat out-flight during summer months is an unforgettable experience and a highlight for many visitors.
• Off-Grid Sustainable Operations: The property runs entirely off-grid, generating its own electricity through a hydroelectric plant fed by spring water. This commitment to sustainable energy production provides an educational opportunity and exemplifies responsible environmental stewardship.
• Rustic and Authentic Atmosphere: Unlike commercial resorts, Valley View Hot Springs maintains a natural, minimalistic, and rustic ambiance. The lodging and facilities are "sanitary and well maintained" but focus on simplicity, allowing the natural beauty to take center stage, making it a "more natural setting."
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Consistent customer reviews praise the staff for being "friendly and helpful," even going above and beyond, such as assisting with a flat tire on a "dirt road to get to the springs." This level of service enhances the overall positive experience.
• Diverse Recreational Opportunities: Beyond soaking, guests can enjoy extensive hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and educational tours of the hydroelectric plant and historic Everson Ranch, providing a holistic outdoor experience.

For more information, reservations, or inquiries about Orient Land Trust/Valley View Hot Springs, please use the following contact details. Due to high demand, especially for lodging and during peak seasons, it is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance.

Address: 64393 County Rd GG, Moffat, CO 81143, USA

Phone: (719) 256-4315

Mobile Phone: +1 719-256-4315

Email: info@olt.org (Check their official website, olt.org, for the most current email address and contact forms.)

Website: www.olt.org (The official website is the best resource for detailed information on accommodations, pricing, policies, current conditions, and making reservations.)

Due to the nature of the property and its commitment to conservation, visitors are encouraged to review the guidelines on their website before arriving, particularly regarding the clothing-optional policy and what to bring (e.g., proper footwear for trails, no glass bottles in the springs).

Orient Land Trust/Valley View Hot Springs is exceptionally well-suited for Colorado locals, offering a truly unique and enriching experience that perfectly aligns with the state's outdoor lifestyle and appreciation for natural beauty. For Coloradans, this destination is not just a place to visit; it’s an opportunity to immerse themselves in a preserved natural environment, disconnect from the stresses of daily life, and rejuvenate in therapeutic geothermal waters. The diverse camping options, from rustic tent sites to cozy cabins, cater to various preferences, making it accessible for a wide range of budgets and comfort levels. The unique clothing-optional policy, supported by a respectful community, offers a liberating sense of freedom and connection with nature that many locals appreciate for its authenticity and unpretentiousness. As reviews highlight, the friendly staff, clean facilities, and the "magical experience" of hiking to secluded pools, even in varied conditions, underscore its appeal. Furthermore, the dedication of the Orient Land Trust to environmental preservation, operating off-grid with its own hydroelectric power and protecting unique wildlife like the bat colony at Orient Mine, resonates strongly with Colorado's conservation-minded population. This isn't just a place to camp; it's a living example of sustainable living and natural harmony, offering Coloradans a truly profound and unforgettable escape right in their own beautiful state.

Orient Land Trust/Valley View Hot Springs

64393 County Rd GG, Moffat, CO 81143, USA