Belmont Hot Springs RV Park sits along the Malad River in Garland, Utah, blending mineral-rich geothermal pools with full-service camping and a unique warm-water scuba-diving experience rarely found in the western United States.

This northern Utah hot springs resort is just 85 miles north of Salt Lake City (about an hour and 15 minutes by car).

The scenic Malad River Valley wraps around it, with limestone terraces and open desert views.

The site was historically known as Udy Hot Springs. Over the years, it also ran as Camperworld and Retrailia RV Resorts. Today, it is a private RV park with day-use access for soakers and divers alike.

The resort has two large mineral-water lakes, which offer year-round soaking, full RV hookups, glamping accommodations, and access to warm-water scuba-diving (you will have to get in touch with diving trainers for training and certification).

So, are you ready to soak, dive, and unwind in Utah's high desert? Let us show you around.

Belmont Hot Springs Soaking Experience

At Belmont Hot Springs, visitors can soak in two large mineral-water lakes fed by natural geothermal springs.

Water rises through fractures in the limestone bedrock beneath the valley. It gets heated deep underground and reaches the surface via numerous natural vents. Temperatures at the source tend to run between 93°F and 125°F (34°–52°C).

If you watch the lake bottom carefully, you can often spot streams of bubbles marking where hot water rises from below.

So what is the difference between the two lakes?

The larger lake covers about 2 acres and averages around 97°F (36°C). It reaches depths of approximately 135 feet, making it the resort's primary scuba-diving lake.

The smaller lake spans roughly 1 to 1.5 acres with depth of 90 feet and stays warmer at about 104°F (40°C).

Both lakes feature natural ledges along the edges that are perfect for sitting back and relaxing.

The lakes' water contains sodium, chloride, calcium, magnesium, and sulfate and has a mild sulfur odor. Strong spring flow helps continually refresh the water.

South of the larger lake, you will find a few other geothermal features (e.g., pools, mud pots, etc.) that add to the area's appeal. All water is eventually drained into the Malad River.

The larger lake is home to bluegill and channel catfish. The smaller lake contains tiny fish commonly seen near the shoreline. Do not worry, though; the fish will not bother you.

Clothing is required throughout the resort – do not forget your bathing suit.

Belmont's larger pond is a well-known spot for diver training, refreshers, and certifications, as students can train in warm water, which is a scuba-diving rarity. The diving lake runs about 30 to 35 feet deep, with visibility between 5 and 15 feet.

Prospective diving students will have to work with separate course providers, as Belmont does not offer this particular service.

The surrounding area is equally beautiful and worthy of further exploration. You can hike the terraces, explore the smaller natural springs, and watch wildlife along the river.

Two other hot springs spots are worth a stop for more soaking options nearby.

Crystal Hot Springs shares Belmont's fault-controlled origin and sits a short drive away. Homestead Crater Hot Springs, near Midway, lets you soak, swim, and scuba dive inside a 55-foot limestone dome.

If you plan to stay a while, Belmont has you covered.

The RV park offers full hookups at every site, with 30- and 50-amp electricity, water, and sewer. All sites are angled for easy in-and-out parking.

If you prefer something cozier, glamping rentals come with stylish décor, a comfy bed, and home-like comforts.

Guests get free showers and clean restrooms, a clubhouse for gatherings, coin-operated laundry, and WiFi across the property. The park is pet-friendly, too. Just keep your dog leashed and away from the springs.

If you would rather sleep in town, lodging is available in Tremonton, about 12 miles south.

Lodging in Tremonton

Location: Garland • Box Elder County • Northern Utah • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Private RV resort with two soaking lakes, glamping, clubhouse, and on-site scuba diving
Clothing: Required
Facilities: Dressing rooms, showers, restrooms, laundry, WiFi

Hiking distance: Short
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use: Soaking available daily; seasonal scuba diving through dive instructors

Elevation: 4,300 ft (1,310 m)

Water T° (source): 93–125°F (34–52°C)
Water T° (pools): 97°F (36°C) - larger lake; 104°F (40°C) - smaller lake
Lake depth: 135 ft (41 m) - larger lake; 90 ft (27 m) - smaller lake
Dive visibility: 5–15 ft
Odor: Mild sulfur

Chemical used: None

Mineral profile: Sodium, chloride, calcium, magnesium, sulfate compounds