File:A girl at Mount Whitney, California, July 2007.jpg — cc by-sa 2.0
Hot Springs known locally as Rock Tub Hot Spring deliver 129°F water from the Long Valley Caldera near Mammoth Lakes at 6,981 feet elevation, offering warm thermal bathing in accessible volcanic terrain on Bureau of Land Management public land.
The spring sits roughly 550 feet from the road on sagebrush and volcanic terrain, requiring a short walk through the landscape that defines the Long Valley environment. Recent USGS data shows complex water chemistry (pH 7.3, TDS-rich with sodium and chloride), indicating deep thermal circulation.
History of Hot Springs
Rock Tub Hot Spring's name reflects its historical use—locals bathed in the cooled outflows. The spring sits atop the Long Valley Caldera, a region of intense crustal heating that powers multiple geothermal features across the Mammoth Lakes area.
Park near Crowley Lake Campground, 9.4 kilometers away, and access on Bureau of Land Management public land. The spring is open year-round with no permit required. Water temperature near the vent reaches 129°F; cooler soaking areas exist downstream. Snow may limit road access December through April.
Is Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 16.2 in
Annual Snow: 83.6 in
February
Air 29°F · Water 129°F · +100° contrast
December
Air 29°F · Water 129°F · +100° contrast
January
Air 30°F · Water 129°F · +99° contrast
February offers 39°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
84.2°F
(29.0°C)
Measured Jul 28, 1973
Discharge
0.01 ft³/s
Measured Jul 28, 1973
The water at Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.3). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration) and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
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
Crowley Lake Campground offers 47 RV/tent sites, maximum recommended RV length is 30 feet. All sites include a fire pit, picnic table and a lantern holder. No hook-up. Potable water is available. Dump station fee is $10.00, no passes accepted. Closest amenities are 2 miles south in Crowley, or 10 miles north in Mammoth Lakes.
Recreation
Popular activities include lake and stream fishing, boating, windsurfing, horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Facilities
Crowley Lake...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Crowley Lake Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
29 miles from Mammoth Lakes, CA
USGS Quad: MT. MORRISON 15 · PP 492: 125.0 · Circ 790: 56.0 · NOAA: 14.0 · AMS Map: MARIPOSA
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs?
Hot Springs has a water temperature of 129°F (54°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs located?
Hot Springs is located in Mono County, California at 6,981 feet elevation, near Mammoth Lakes. Coordinates: 37.6480°N, 118.8060°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs?
Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs free to visit?
Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Hot Springs?
Yes, Crowley Lake Campground is located nearby (5.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.3 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs?
At 129°F, Hot Springs 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 Hot Springs crowded?
Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Springs?
Essentials for 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.