San Marcos Hot Spring emerges at 110°F on the slopes above Goleta in the Santa Ynez Mountains. The 49-degree temperature differential above ambient air makes it a significant geothermal resource for this region.
The spring sits at 1,486 feet elevation within Los Padres National Forest, accessible via a short walk of roughly 900 feet from Chumash Highway. The surrounding Santa Ynez Mountains provide a scenic backdrop of oak woodland and chaparral, with the thermal waters creating a small pool in the rocky terrain.
History of San Marcos Hot Spring
San Marcos Hot Spring is protected within Los Padres National Forest as a managed thermal feature. The area experiences mild winters and dry summers typical of the southern California coast, with minimal annual precipitation and snow.
Access the spring with a short walk from Chumash Highway. Visit during spring or fall for moderate temperatures. The spring is open for day use; respect Forest Service regulations and leave no trace.
Is San Marcos Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
San Marcos Hot Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 14.9 in
Annual Snow: 0.0 in
February
Air 52°F · Water 110°F · +58° contrast
December
Air 52°F · Water 110°F · +58° contrast
January
Air 53°F · Water 110°F · +57° contrast
February offers 20°F more contrast than August
Overview
Fremont Campground is a family-friendly facility located just off California's western coast. It provides access to a variety of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails, as well as some off-road vehicle trails, in a scenic area. Recreation
The Santa Ynez River is popular for a variety of water-related recreation. It can be accessed at nearby White Rock Day Use Area. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, a no-body-contact reservoir, is also nearby. It offers boating, kayaking and fishing o...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Fremont Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: LAKE CACHUMA 7.5 · PP 492: 102.0 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: LOS ANGELES
What is the water temperature at San Marcos Hot Spring?
San Marcos Hot Spring has a water temperature of 110°F (43°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is San Marcos Hot Spring located?
San Marcos Hot Spring is located in Santa Barbara County, California at 1,486 feet elevation, near Goleta. Coordinates: 34.5370°N, 119.8790°W.
How do I get to San Marcos Hot Spring?
San Marcos Hot Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Chumash Highway (0.5 mi from the road).
Is San Marcos Hot Spring free to visit?
San Marcos Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near San Marcos Hot Spring?
Yes, Fremont Campground is located nearby (3.4 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at San Marcos Hot Spring?
San Marcos Hot Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is San Marcos Hot Spring crowded?
San Marcos Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to San Marcos Hot Spring?
Essentials for San Marcos Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.