File:Herman Ehrenberg Grave, Dos Palmas, CA.jpg — cc by-sa 4.0
Dos Palmas Spring emerges at 84°F from one of North America's most inhospitable environments—below sea level in the Colorado Desert east of the Salton Sea—creating a precious oasis for wildlife and human visitors.
The spring flows from elevated terrain at negative 51 feet elevation, surrounded by desert scrub and palms that mark this isolated water source. The landscape reflects extreme aridity, with only 3 inches of annual precipitation and air temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F in summer.
History of Dos Palmas Spring
Dos Palmas Spring formed through groundwater circulation in the Colorado Desert, an extension of the Imperial Valley's complex hydrogeology. The spring sits within the Palm Springs/South Coast Bureau of Land Management field office, where geothermal resources remain relatively modest compared to other California features.
The spring lies 1,922 feet from Dos Palmas Spring Road and is accessible via a short walk on BLM land. Summer temperatures often exceed 105°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable visit times. Water temperature rises only 7°F above the region's annual average, making this a tepid thermal feature by hot spring standards. Access remains open year-round on public land.
Is Dos Palmas Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Dos Palmas Spring is well suited for warm-water soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 3.0 in
Annual Snow: 0.0 in
December
Air 58°F · Water 84°F · +27° contrast
January
Air 59°F · Water 84°F · +25° contrast
February
Air 63°F · Water 84°F · +22° contrast
December offers 39°F more contrast than August
Overview
Download the NPS app prior to visiting the park – trail maps and more!
Cottonwood Group Campground is one of the best places in Joshua Tree National Park for stargazing and wildflower viewing. The group campground is part of the main Cottonwood Campground and has three sites that are by reservation only. It is one of three group campgrounds in the park and the only campground that lies in the southern section. To get the most out of your visit Plan Like a Park Ranger Travelers who...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Sun protection
Limited shade in warm climate
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Cottonwood Group
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
0 miles from Desert Shores, CA
USGS Quad: OROCOPIA CANYON 7.5 · PP 492: 176.0 · NOAA: 3.0 · AMS Map: SALTON SEA
What is the water temperature at Dos Palmas Spring?
Dos Palmas Spring has a water temperature of 84°F (29°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Dos Palmas Spring located?
Dos Palmas Spring is located in Imperial County, California at -51 feet elevation, near Desert Shores. Coordinates: 33.5120°N, 115.8270°W.
How do I get to Dos Palmas Spring?
Dos Palmas Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Dos Palmas Spring Road (0.4 mi from the road).
Is Dos Palmas Spring free to visit?
Dos Palmas Spring has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Dos Palmas Spring?
Yes, Cottonwood Group is located nearby (16.5 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Dos Palmas Spring?
Dos Palmas Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Dos Palmas Spring crowded?
Dos Palmas Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Dos Palmas Spring?
Essentials for Dos Palmas Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.