This spring near Mammoth Lakes presents a thermal contradiction: surface water at 68°F masks much hotter conditions at depth, with USGS measurements recording 82.7°C (181°F) beneath the surface, suggesting complex subsurface thermal mixing.
Located at 7,035 feet on Bureau of Land Management public land, the spring requires a short walk of roughly 1,200 feet from Owens River Road. The setting mixes alkaline minerals (pH 7.8) with surprising salinity (TDS 1,230 mg/L), creating distinctive water chemistry in the Long Valley landscape.
History of Hot Spring
The temperature discrepancy between surface and depth reveals the spring's mechanics: geothermal water at depth cools and mixes with non-thermal water during ascent. This phenomenon interested USGS researchers studying Long Valley's complex subsurface thermal geometry.
Approach from Owens River Road on Bureau of Land Management land. The cooler surface temperature allows safe wading, but drilling or disturbing the spring bottom is prohibited. Access is year-round; road conditions dictate difficulty in winter months.
Is Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Overnight camping trips
- Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Hot Spring is well suited for overnight camping trips and mineral-rich therapeutic bathing.
Annual Precip: 15.9 in
Annual Snow: 78.8 in
December
Air 28°F · Water 68°F · +41° contrast
January
Air 30°F · Water 68°F · +39° contrast
February
Air 29°F · Water 68°F · +39° contrast
December offers 40°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
180.9°F
(82.7°C)
Measured Jul 15, 1993
The water at Hot Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.8) with 1230 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits), and total dissolved solids (higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking).
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
Overview
Convict Lake Campground is situated near Convict Lake amidst the beautiful scenery of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The lake and surrounding national forest provide many opportunities for family fun, outdoor recreation and relaxation.
The campground and nearby resort offer many amenities for a convenient and enjoyable camping experience. The facility is located between Mammoth Lakes and Bishop, California, near Mammoth Airport.Recreation
The eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains are known...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Convict Lake Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
33 miles from Mammoth Lakes, CA
USGS Quad: MT. MORRISON 15 · Circ 790: 56.0 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: MARIPOSA
What is the water temperature at Hot Spring?
Hot Spring has a water temperature of 68°F (20°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Hot Spring located?
Hot Spring is located in Mono County, California at 7,035 feet elevation, near Mammoth Lakes. Coordinates: 37.7080°N, 118.8130°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring?
Hot Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Owens River Road (0.2 mi from the road).
Is Hot Spring free to visit?
Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Hot Spring?
Yes, Convict Lake Campground is located nearby (7.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.8 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 1,230 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring?
Hot Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Spring crowded?
Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Spring?
Essentials for Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.