At 140°F, the source water at Buckeye Hot Spring is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
Buckeye Hot Spring flows at 140°F from the eastern Sierra Nevada in Mono County at 6,963 feet elevation on US Forest Service land. Just 82 feet from Buckeye Road, this roadside spring emerges approximately 96°F above ambient temperature, creating one of the region's most accessible natural geothermal destinations.
The spring lies in the dramatic high-desert landscape of Mono County, where volcanic geology meets sagebrush-covered slopes descending toward Owen's Valley. Clear mountain air and expansive vistas characterize the setting—granite peaks frame the horizon while sparse vegetation typical of rain-shadow environments surrounds the thermal feature. The spring's thermal output produces clear water in a compact basin, visually striking against the austere landscape.
History of Buckeye Hot Spring
Located on Toiyabe National Forest with protection status allowing permanent preservation subject to extractive uses, Buckeye Hot Spring benefits from public access managed by the US Forest Service. The spring formed through geothermal activity along fault zones in the Sierra Nevada batholith, where regional heat flow concentrates along crustal weaknesses. Historical use by Native Americans and settlers established its reputation as a therapeutic destination.
Roadside parking and minimal walk access make this spring ideal for visitors with limited mobility or time. Early morning visits in summer offer solitude before afternoon crowds arrive. Spring snowmelt (typically clearing by June) creates seasonal access challenges, while fall visits provide ideal temperature contrasts between 140°F water and cool desert air.
Is Buckeye Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Buckeye Hot Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
30°Jan
28°Feb
32°Mar
38°Apr
45°May
58°Jun
66°Jul
65°Aug
59°Sep
48°Oct
36°Nov
27°Dec
Annual Precip: 20.1 inAnnual Snow: 103.9 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 27°F · Water 140°F · +114° contrast
FebruaryAir 28°F · Water 140°F · +112° contrast
JanuaryAir 30°F · Water 140°F · +110° contrast
December offers 40°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Honeymoon Flat2.5 mi away
Overview
Honeymoon Flat Campground is located just 8 miles from Bridgeport, California, next to Robinson Creek at an elevation of 7,000 feet. The Twin Lakes area is about 2 miles away, where visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking and horseback riding.Recreation
Robinson Creek offers good rainbow trout fishing and can be easily accessed from both loops. Numerous hiking trails are in the vicinity, including the popular Robinson Creek Trail.Facilities
The campground contains single and double-f...
What is the water temperature at Buckeye Hot Spring?
Buckeye Hot Spring has a water temperature of 140°F (60°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Buckeye Hot Spring located?
Buckeye Hot Spring is located in Mono County, California at 6,963 feet elevation, near Bridgeport. Coordinates: 38.2370°N, 119.3260°W.
How do I get to Buckeye Hot Spring?
Buckeye Hot Spring has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Buckeye Road (268 ft from the road).
Is Buckeye Hot Spring free to visit?
Buckeye Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Buckeye Hot Spring?
Yes, Honeymoon Flat is located nearby (2.5 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Buckeye Hot Spring?
At 140°F, Buckeye Hot 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 Buckeye Hot Spring crowded?
Buckeye Hot Spring 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 Buckeye Hot Spring?
Essentials for Buckeye Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, 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.
Temperature
140°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp140°F (60°C)
Avg Air Temp44°F
Above Ambient+96°F
Perfect soaking weatherMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessRoadside
Nearest RoadBuckeye Road
Distance to Road268 ft
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyUS Forest Service
DesignationNational Forest
UnitToiyabe National Forest
ManagerUS Forest Service
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use