Quick take: Red spider mites in hot springs are tiny, fast, and annoying. They live around some Idaho hot springs and Oregon hot springs. Their bites itch like mosquito bites. You can avoid most bites with a few smart moves.
Quick checklist
- Spot check the edges for fast red dots.
- Hang or bag my clothes and towel.
- Soak center, not edge.
- Keep it short if I see activity.
- Dry off fast and lotion up.
What are red spider mites?
I see them most at natural pools with calm edges. They look like tiny orange‑red dots that dart over warm rocks and the water's surface.
They're hard to spot without looking closely. Have you ever noticed little red specks zipping along the pool edge?
Where do they show up?
From my trips, I've seen more mites at springs that don't get flushed by spring runoff. I rarely see them at sulfur springs; they seem to prefer less‑acidic water.
In the Northwest, folks report mites at places like Bog, Little Borax, Atlanta, Chattanooga, Vulcan, Secesh, Worswick, and Bear Valley.
They pop up off and on across Idaho and Oregon. Sometimes they're there one week and gone the next. That's hot springs life.
Do they bite?
Yes. They can attach to your skin, especially after soaking near the edges. The bite usually turns into an itchy welt, similar to a mosquito bite. Some people react more than others. I've soaked with friends who didn't notice anything while I felt a few sharp zings.
Are they dangerous?
For most healthy adults, the risk is low. Your immune system handles the mild toxin. Still, the itch can last days - sometimes longer if you scratch. It's more nuisance than hazard, but it can ruin a relaxing soak if you're not prepared.
How do they spread?
Here's the sneaky part. Mites search for dry spots to lay eggs and often end up on clothes, towels, and bags left on the ground. Then, as soon as they're near your skin, they bite. I learned this after tossing my towel on a flat rock. Not smart.
Before you soak
- Look closely at the pool edge. Do you see tiny red dots moving fast?
- Compare pools in a complex. Sometimes one pool is much cleaner than the others.
- If you spot mites, consider a short, center‑of‑pool soak or move to another spring.
While you soak
- Stay in the center of the pool; mites crowd the edges.
- Try soaking near a gentle outflow; moving water can deter them.
- Keep your session short if mites are active.
Protect your gear
- Keep clothes and towels in a plastic bag or hang them from a tree branch.
- Don't leave anything on bare ground or low rocks.
After you soak
- Dry off thoroughly right away.
- Check your skin and gear for stray mites.
- If you get bitten, don't scratch. Use an anti‑itch cream (hydrocortisone), calamine, or an oral antihistamine if needed.
When to skip a soak
If mites are swarming the edges and you don't have a way to bag your gear, it's okay to move on. There are plenty of springs with fewer pests. Why risk a week of itching on a mellow trip?
Common questions
Will they follow me home? Not likely if you bag gear, shake it out, and wash it after.
Do they like all hot springs? No. Activity varies by season, runoff, and water chemistry.
Do kids react more? Sometimes. If you're with kids, be extra careful with towels and drying off.
However, if you can handle a few mosquito bites, you can handle red spider mites too. With a quick scan, smart gear storage, and a short center soak, you'll likely stay comfortable and keep the trip easy and fun.
Stay safe, soak happy.
Disclaimer
This content provides general educational information only. It has NO intention, direct or indirect, to serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do NOT make and have NO intention to make any medical claims. Always consult your healthcare provider for more information.
You May Also Like
