Skinny Dipper Hot Springs Closed for Now

  Shucks. Better put on your shorts and head to another warm-water idyll for this springtime. The Bureau of Land Management has announced the closure of the Skinny Dipper Hot Springs and the surrounding area (41 acres), until June 30, 2013.

  BLM officials say the closure is due to the 2012 Springs Fire, which burned away vegetation on rocky slopes above the hot springs. Because spring rains could lead to falling rocks, flooding and debris flowing through the hot springs, bare bottoms will have to settle elsewhere for the next three months.

  After June 30, the hot springs will be open for day use only.

  This will not be the first time for day-use only at Skinny Dipper. Since 2004, several fatalities, assaults, and numerous injuries have occurred with nighttime use. Be forewarned that there is no cell-phone access at the springs. It is not advisable to thumb the nose at your own safety.

  The government warns that anyone violating the closure could face a fine up to $1,000 and up to twelve months in jail. Closure signs will be posted at the Skinny Dipper Hot Springs, near Milepost 4, four miles from the town of Banks.

  Whispers among skinny dippers divulge continued use of the springs, but you could get ticketed by federal officers, if parked there.  According to County Commissioner, Jamie Anderson, the county would respond “only if requested by federal law enforcement for an officer assist”.

   Butt--beware, be safe, and perhaps be bare somewhere else.