At 167°F, the source water at The Tub is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
The Tub delivers 167°F water in Mono County near Mammoth Lakes, with minimal discharge (0.01 cfs) creating an intimate, accessible hot spring experience at high elevation.
Perched at 6,975 feet elevation on city-owned land managed by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, the spring emerges 245 meters from the nearest road through alpine terrain with heavy snow (83.6 inches annually) and cool summers.
History of The Tub
Also known as Crab Cooker Hot Springs, this feature represents localized geothermal activity with near-neutral pH (7.3) and mixed mineral content including iron, distinct from the alkaline geysers of lower elevation basins.
Access requires a short walk from the nearest road. Crowley Lake Campground (11 km away) offers 47 RV/tent sites with potable water and fishing access, though the closest town amenities are in Mammoth Lakes (10 miles north).
Is The Tub worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
The Tub is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
30°Jan
29°Feb
34°Mar
41°Apr
48°May
61°Jun
68°Jul
67°Aug
61°Sep
50°Oct
39°Nov
29°Dec
Annual Precip: 16.2 inAnnual Snow: 83.6 in
Best Time to Visit
FebruaryAir 29°F · Water 167°F · +138° contrast
DecemberAir 29°F · Water 167°F · +138° contrast
JanuaryAir 30°F · Water 167°F · +137° contrast
February offers 39°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
84.2°F
(29.0°C)Measured Jul 28, 1973
Discharge
0.01 ft³/s
Measured Jul 28, 1973
Water ChemistrySampled 1973-07-28
The water at The Tub 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).
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...
The Tub has a water temperature of 167°F (75°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is The Tub located?
The Tub is located in Mono County, California at 6,975 feet elevation, near Mammoth Lakes. Coordinates: 37.6640°N, 118.8020°W.
How do I get to The Tub?
The Tub has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Is The Tub free to visit?
The Tub has Open access. It is managed by CITY.
Can I camp near The Tub?
Yes, Crowley Lake Campground is located nearby (6.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at The Tub?
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 The Tub?
The water at The Tub reaches 167°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is The Tub crowded?
The Tub sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to The Tub?
Essentials for The Tub: 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.