El Encino Springs
El Encino Springs emerges at 79°F from the urban heart of Sherman Oaks, representing one of the few remaining traces of historic springs that once sustained the Tongva-Kizh village of Siutcanga for thousands of years.
The spring flows at 763 feet elevation immediately roadside in intensively developed suburban Los Angeles, barely 6 feet from the street. The thermal water rises approximately 15°F above ambient conditions, marking this spot as a rare geothermal anomaly within the concrete landscape of the San Fernando Valley.
El Encino Springs held profound importance for Indigenous peoples long before Spanish contact, when the Tongva-Kizh relied on these artesian springs for water, minerals, and spiritual practices. Later, the springs supplied water for Rancho Los Encinos and subsequent agricultural and residential development that ultimately obscured their visibility and accessibility.
El Encino Springs is now located within a state historic park near Mulholland Drive in Sherman Oaks, making it accessible to Los Angeles residents. The modest temperature (79°F) and small pool limit soaking appeal, but the site carries significant cultural and archaeological meaning. Modern access depends on park hours and conditions.
Is El Encino Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Gate may be closed due to High Fire danger. Elevation: 1900-Foot ElevationAmenities: 6 hike-in campsites- Picnic tables and campfire rings, vault toilets, no piped water. Seasonal stream water may be available (treat before using). However, water flow may be low or non-existent due to reduced rainfall.Hiking: Just a short hike to the 50' Millard Falls. Fees: Camping - Adventure Pass/America the Beautiful Pass Required. Campsites are first come-first served. No reserving or holding of cam...