Tucked into 77 acres of desert oasis, among the mountains of Fremont County, just about an hour south of Colorado Springs, in Florence, you’ll find something a bit ethereal, a bit breathtaking. Desert Reef Hot Springs, which began as a small-group collaborative respite in 1986, has now become a mini-resort, in the quietest way–a place to gather for an introspective and healing digital detox.
It features six natural mineral hot springs pools: the main pool, its natural features both cinematic and thermally calming, four smaller soaking pools and a cold plunge. Together, they create an atmosphere that is both stunning and edifying.
Serendipitous
“Come out here, turn your brain off, and become the best version of yourself,” says owner, Chris McLaughlin.
Laughlin began his journey with Desert Reef Hot Springs over the course of many years, existential introspection and visits to the area, looking for his own protected space to commune and feel refreshed.
Hoping to “create something unique and intentional,” McLaughlin has overseen recent renovations and expansions that broadened new access to the hot springs. In addition to day soaks, guests can now stay overnight in Airstreams, custom-built tiny homes replete with their own individual soaking pools, or within their own van (BYOV) accommodations. Phones are not allowed and must be tucked away, with privacy as a standard, and everything is walk-in to encourage an escape from chaos, and a lean-in to the stars and extension of mental rejuvenation.
Resilience of Desert
With an aesthetic that tells a story amongst every facet of the resort: the desert juxtaposition within mountains, the midnight sky adjacent to the azure travertine waters, and the mining history influence narrated in the rusty steel designed tiny homes, Desert Reef creates moments and constant reminders of what a third space alternative can look like. Their regular sound therapy baths, which take place while in and around the main pool, encourage tranquility and inner peace, while their summer music series with hi-fi vinyl listening parties, and crafted local eats, create something more intentional and light.
Equal parts restorative landscape, and freedom of experience through nature, Desert Reef Hot Springs is holding space for locals, in a way that is more important than ever. Inclusivity, intentionality, and thoughtful design have come together to allow visitors every opportunity to embrace stillness and bask in the effortless beauty of place.
“It’s the culture and community,” McLaughlin says. “This is like my home.”
Address + Phone: 1194 County Rd. 110, Florence | 719-784-6134
Website: https://www.desertreefhotspring.com/
Instagram and Facebook: @desert.reef