Stingleys Hot Springs emerges at an impressive 123 degrees in Ventura County near Meiners Oaks, flowing at 1,246 feet elevation in the rugged Topatopa Mountains. The spring provides water 61.8 degrees warmer than the ambient temperature of 61 degrees, ranking among the hotter springs in Southern California.
The spring requires a 132-meter walk from Matilija Canyon Road North through chaparral vegetation and oak woodland. The surrounding Topatopa Mountains display the dramatic geology of the Transverse Ranges, with steep ridges and narrow canyons. The water emerges in a secluded canyon setting surrounded by thick vegetation and towering canyon walls.
History of Stingleys Hot Springs
The Topatopa Mountains represent a major fault-bounded uplift in the Transverse Ranges, a region of intense crustal deformation related to the San Andreas fault system. The spring's substantial heat reflects deep geothermal resources in this geologically active mountain range.
The short walk through canyon terrain offers a more immersive experience than purely roadside springs. The mild climate (61.2 degrees average, 13.7 inches precipitation) permits year-round visiting. Summer brings occasional fire danger to the chaparral landscape. Holiday Group Campground lies 6.2 kilometers away as the nearest developed recreational facility.
Is Stingleys Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Stingleys Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 13.7 in
Annual Snow: 2.7 in
December
Air 51°F · Water 123°F · +72° contrast
January
Air 52°F · Water 123°F · +71° contrast
February
Air 52°F · Water 123°F · +71° contrast
December offers 21°F more contrast than August
Overview
Holiday Group Campground is a relaxing location to enjoy nature all year long; a quick escape from the bustle of the city. It provides access to a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking and horseback riding. Surrounding trails are also fun for off-road vehicle enthusiasts.Recreation
The Wheeler Gorge Nature Trail begins not far from the campground. It is a relatively short, loop trail that leads through thick vegetation along the river banks and to a scenic h...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Holiday Group Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
2 miles from Meiners Oaks, CA
USGS Quad: MATILIJA 7.5 · PP 492: 107.0 · NOAA: 8.0 · AMS Map: LOS ANGELES
What is the water temperature at Stingleys Hot Springs?
Stingleys Hot Springs has a water temperature of 123°F (51°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Stingleys Hot Springs located?
Stingleys Hot Springs is located in Ventura County, California at 1,246 feet elevation, near Meiners Oaks. Coordinates: 34.4980°N, 119.3410°W.
How do I get to Stingleys Hot Springs?
Stingleys Hot Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Matilija Canyon Road North (435 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Stingleys Hot Springs?
Yes, Holiday Group Campground is located nearby (3.9 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Stingleys Hot Springs?
At 123°F, Stingleys Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Stingleys Hot Springs crowded?
Stingleys Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Stingleys Hot Springs?
Essentials for Stingleys 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.