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Benton Hot Springs flows at 134 degrees Fahrenheit from the western Great Basin at 5,640 feet elevation, creating a thermal oasis in California's rain shadow desert.
The spring sits just 87 feet from the roadway at the edge of the Great Basin's arid landscape. Water emerges from a region receiving only 10 inches of annual precipitation, where 38 inches of snow falls seasonally, making the warm spring water especially valued during winter months.
History of Benton Hot Springs
The spring has supported human settlement for over a century, with the town of Benton growing directly around these geothermal waters. The location marks a significant geothermal feature where circulating water from depth emerges, tied to the Basin-and-Range structure that extends throughout the region.
Roadside access makes visitation straightforward via Highway 395. The spring offers strongest appeal during cooler months when temperature contrasts are most pronounced. Tuff Campground, 29 kilometers away, provides early-season access as one of the first regional campgrounds to open each spring.
Is Benton Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Benton Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 10.0 in
Annual Snow: 37.7 in
December
Air 33°F · Water 134°F · +101° contrast
January
Air 34°F · Water 134°F · +100° contrast
February
Air 35°F · Water 134°F · +99° contrast
December offers 44°F more contrast than July
Overview
Tuff Campground is situated along Rock Creek in the scenic Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. It is convenient to Tom's Place and U.S. Highway 395.
At an elevation of 7,000 ft., it is lower than many of the region's campgrounds and thus frequently one of the first campgrounds to open in the spring.
Popular activities include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing and viewing the area's volcanic rock formations.
Opening and closing dates for the season are dependent on weather. The c...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Tuff Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Dixon Lane-Meadow Creek, CA
USGS Quad: GLASS MOUNTAIN 15 · PP 492: 127.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: MARIPOSA
What is the water temperature at Benton Hot Springs?
Benton Hot Springs has a water temperature of 134°F (57°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Benton Hot Springs located?
Benton Hot Springs is located in Inyo County, California at 5,640 feet elevation, near Dixon Lane-Meadow Creek. Coordinates: 37.8020°N, 118.5320°W.
How do I get to Benton Hot Springs?
Benton Hot Springs has Roadside road access (286 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Benton Hot Springs?
Yes, Tuff Campground is located nearby (18.1 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Benton Hot Springs?
At 134°F, Benton Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Benton Hot Springs crowded?
Benton Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Benton Hot Springs?
Essentials for Benton Hot Springs: 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.