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Agua Caliente Spring emerges at an exceptional 133 degrees Fahrenheit in the Santa Ynez Mountains of Santa Barbara County near Toro Canyon, running 72 degrees above ambient in protected Forest Service terrain at 2,372 feet elevation.
The spring requires a short walk of approximately 1,300 feet through Los Padres National Forest terrain featuring mixed-conifer and oak woodland on steep mountainous slopes. The Mediterranean climate produces 14.6 inches of annual precipitation plus minimal snowfall of 1.4 inches, with clear skies and varied terrain creating dramatic coastal mountain scenery with Pacific views.
History of Agua Caliente Spring
Agua Caliente's exceptional heat reflects circulation through unusually hot crustal rock in this tectonically-influenced section of the Los Padres National Forest. The spring lies amid the Big Caliente thermal complex, a grouping of multiple thermal features indicating significant geothermal resources in this segment of the mountain range.
Open to public on National Forest lands; no special permits required. Short walk to spring makes visits feasible for most fitness levels. Upper Oso Campground lies 17.9 kilometers away, offering family-friendly facilities with equestrian sites and trail access to the San Rafael Wilderness and coastal mountains. Spring through fall provides optimal access.
Is Agua Caliente Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Agua Caliente Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 14.6 in
Annual Snow: 1.4 in
January
Air 50°F · Water 133°F · +83° contrast
February
Air 50°F · Water 133°F · +83° contrast
December
Air 50°F · Water 133°F · +83° contrast
January offers 25°F more contrast than August
Overview
Upper Oso Campground provides ample opportunity for exploration of California's coastal mountains. It is a family-friendly campground, equipped with equestrian sites, and is close to a variety of trails and several mountain streams.Recreation
A variety of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails begin in and around the campground, including the Santa Cruz Trail, which traverses 18 miles north to the San Rafael Wilderness. The 2.5-mile Aliso National Recreation Trail leads...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Upper Oso Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Toro Canyon, CA
USGS Quad: HILDRETH PEAK 7.5 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: LOS ANGELES
What is the water temperature at Agua Caliente Spring?
Agua Caliente Spring has a water temperature of 133°F (56°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Agua Caliente Spring located?
Agua Caliente Spring is located in Santa Barbara County, California at 2,372 feet elevation, near Toro Canyon. Coordinates: 34.5380°N, 119.5600°W.
How do I get to Agua Caliente Spring?
Agua Caliente Spring has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Is Agua Caliente Spring free to visit?
Agua Caliente Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Agua Caliente Spring?
Yes, Upper Oso Campground is located nearby (11.1 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Agua Caliente Spring?
At 133°F, Agua Caliente Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Agua Caliente Spring crowded?
Agua Caliente Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Agua Caliente Spring?
Essentials for Agua Caliente Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.