Dangerously Hot — Not Safe for Soaking
Coso Hot Springs reaches 207°F, far above safe soaking levels. Contact with this water will cause severe burns. Look for cooled downstream pools or view from a safe distance only.
File:Sulphur (33049806288).jpg — cc by-sa 2.0
Coso Hot Springs surges from the earth at an extreme 207°F (97°C) within the Coso Volcanic Field, representing one of California's hottest thermal systems. The spring emerges 144 degrees above the ambient mountain temperature, one of the state's most dramatic thermal anomalies.
The springs lie deep within a high-altitude landscape at 4,280 feet elevation, set within volcanic terrain shaped by intense geothermal activity. The extremely acidic water (pH 1.5) with high iron and sulfate content creates distinctive chemical pools and mineral deposits typical of advanced geothermal systems.
History of Coso Hot Springs
The complex sits within the Coso Volcanic Field and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Geologically, it represents a major geothermal resource zone where hot springs discharge from active volcanic rock and mineral-rich thermal aquifers beneath the Mojave Desert.
This spring system is completely inaccessible to the public, located on the Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake military installation. Its extreme temperature, acidic chemistry, and restricted status make it a purely scientific and historical point of interest rather than a recreational destination.
Is Coso Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
- Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Coso Hot Springs is best appreciated as a dramatic geothermal feature rather than a place to soak.
Annual Precip: 5.7 in
Annual Snow: 7.8 in
December
Air 43°F · Water 207°F · +164° contrast
January
Air 44°F · Water 207°F · +163° contrast
February
Air 47°F · Water 207°F · +160° contrast
December offers 42°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
176.0°F
(80.0°C)
Measured Jan 01, 1964
The water at Coso Hot Springs is strongly acidic (pH 1.5) with 2500 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), and iron (iron-rich springs may support circulation).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Chimney Creek Campground is located within Chimney Peak Recreation Area and is cherry stemmed out of Owens Peak Wilderness. The campground contains 36 sites and is nestled among beautiful pinyon pines, grey pines, and oaks along Chimney Creek at 5,700 feet in elevation. Each site in the campground has a picnic table and fire ring. Potable water is available during the summer months near the very end of the campground loop at site 36. During the summer, days can be warm and dry. The Pacific C...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Chimney Creek Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Inyokern, CA
USGS Quad: HAIWEE RESERVOIR 15 · PP 492: 142.0 · Circ 790: 57.0 · NOAA: 8.0 · AMS Map: DEATH VALLEY
What is the water temperature at Coso Hot Springs?
Coso Hot Springs has a water temperature of 207°F (97°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Coso Hot Springs located?
Coso Hot Springs is located in Kern County, California at 4,280 feet elevation, near Inyokern. Coordinates: 36.0450°N, 117.7690°W.
How do I get to Coso Hot Springs?
Coso Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (361 ft from the road).
Is Coso Hot Springs free to visit?
Coso Hot Springs has Closed access. It is managed by DESG.
Can I camp near Coso Hot Springs?
Yes, Chimney Creek Campground is located nearby (20.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Coso Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 1.5 (strongly acidic). Total dissolved solids measure 2,500 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Coso Hot Springs?
The water at Coso Hot Springs reaches 207°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Coso Hot Springs crowded?
Coso Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Coso Hot Springs?
Essentials for Coso 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.