3 Gay Bathhouses in Russian River, CA — Saunas & Spas

Most hot springs resorts market themselves as getaways; Wilbur Hot Springs in Williams actually cuts the cord. There's no cell service or wifi, and the main draw is a set of clothing-optional lithium-rich mineral pools housed under a rustic barn. Day passes are available, so you don't need to book an overnight stay to soak. The property also includes a dry sauna, massage services, and communal bikes to explore the attached nature preserve. You'll need to bring your own food, though: there's a communal kitchen but no on-site restaurant, and the nearest store is 23 miles away.

Open 24 hours, Harbin Hot Springs in Middletown is a clothing-optional retreat that fits any schedule. The resort was destroyed by the Valley Fire in 2015 but reopened in 2019. Its spring-fed pools range from comfortable warm to a 116-degree temple tub, with a cold plunge and dry sauna nearby. Silence is enforced at the meditation pool under a fig tree, while four conversational pools allow chatting. Day passes (6 hours) are available but sell out fast, especially on weekends. The property offers accommodations from camping to geodesic domes and cabins. Watsu (water shiatsu) was invented here in 1980, and you can book sessions with an aquatic therapist. On-site takeout food is available, and yoga classes are regularly scheduled.

Orr Hot Springs Resort stands out as a queer-owned, clothing-optional hot springs destination in a redwood canyon near Ukiah. It offers two communal soaking tubs at different temperatures, a spring-fed swimming pool, dry and wet saunas, and private clawfoot tubs on the rooftop. The resort has a communal kitchen, yurts, cottages, and seasonal camping for overnight stays, with day-use available from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The resort is open 24 hours for overnight guests, allowing late-night soaking under the stars. Dogs are welcome, making it a rare pet-friendly soak. A hike in the nearby Montgomery Woods is easy to add to your visit.