Crystal Hot Springs
It’s not your typical backyard hot tub.
Crystal Hot Springs is a natural wonder located in Honeyville, Utah. With swimming and camping accommodations, Jeremy Johnson, general manager of Crystal Hot Springs, said Crystal is one place you really can’t see or do anywhere else.
Crystal is known as one of the few locations in the world that has both a cold and hot spring only a feet apart from one another. Johnson said these springs are unique because they flow opposite directions from one another. He said the temperatures of the springs contain a unique characteristic because the hot spring runs at 130 degrees and is salty and full of minerals, whereas the cold spring is said to run at 55 degrees.
The water in the pool comes directly from the springs and has not previously been in any type of pool area. Johnson said the hot and cold spring water is mixed together to create a comfortable temperature that is perfect for helping individuals relax.
Crystal Hot Springs also contains mineral pools which Johnson said is 100 percent natural.
“We don’t filter the mineral pool at all,” Johnson said. “We don’t put any sort of chemicals in it. The mineral pool is clean, all natural and makes you relax. It helps you sleep at night which is perfect right before finals.”
Johnson said the springs were used as a refuge for the Indians many years ago. He said this was the perfect spot for the Indians, who would set up camp and enjoy the mineral water. Years later, Chinese railroad workers discovered the springs and used them for relaxation. He said they would build boxes which allowed the water to flow in and create a small hot tub.
In 1901, the springs became a commercialized business and were named Crystal Hot Springs because of their crystal-clear waters.
Crystal has many amenities to please everyone, he said. Johnson said it is a great place to go because of its distinctive atmosphere. Aside from the mineral pools, Crystal has an Olympic-sized pool, a waterslide, a large television in the pool area, a volleyball court and a reception and party room.
Another characteristic that sets Crystal Hot Springs apart is the camping opportunities available, he said. There are more than 80 full-hookup campsites and 39 non-hookups. Johnson said all campers have showers and restrooms available. Johnson sees many individuals come camping and swimming for the night, he said.
“It’s perfect for college kids to come camping and swimming for the weekend,” Johnson said. “It’s a good location and if students show their student ID card they do get a discount.”
Crystal Hot Springs is open year-round, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Hours are currently 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. Daily or weekend swim passes are available.
-courtnie.packer@aggiemail.usu.edu