File:Mammoth Lakes, United States (Unsplash DDhET-updco).jpg — cc0
Wild Willy's Hot Springs flows at 120 degrees Fahrenheit along Owens Valley's eastern margin near Mammoth Lakes, emerging at 6,880 feet elevation on Bureau of Land Management property. Recent USGS measurements recorded 57.1 degrees Celsius (134.8°F) with neutral pH 7.0 and elevated sodium content of 370 milligrams per liter in high desert terrain.
The spring sits in the transition zone between pinyon-juniper forest and high desert sagebrush at the eastern Sierra Nevada's base. A 665-meter walk from the road accesses the thermal feature through typical Inyo County landscape with minimal vegetation. Snow cover from October through May transforms access conditions seasonally, while summer conditions provide relatively straightforward approaches through sagebrush terrain.
History of Wild Willy's Hot Springs
Wild Willy's Hot Springs formed through deep geothermal circulation related to the Long Valley Caldera system and Sierra Nevada's thermal regime. The neutral pH and elevated sodium content reflect mineral-bearing aquifers circulating through basin fill and volcanic materials. The Bureau of Land Management manages the feature as publicly accessible geothermal resource within protected land status.
Access requires a 665-meter walk (2,182 feet) through sagebrush-covered terrain, classified as a short hike in summer conditions. Winter snow from December through March makes access challenging or impossible. Best visits occur June through October when trails are clear. Bring warm clothing as air temperatures remain cold even in summer. The neutral pH water is suitable for extended soaking.
Is Wild Willy's Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
- Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Wild Willy's Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 14.7 in
Annual Snow: 72.9 in
February
Air 29°F · Water 120°F · +91° contrast
December
Air 29°F · Water 120°F · +91° contrast
January
Air 31°F · Water 120°F · +90° contrast
February offers 40°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
134.8°F
(57.1°C)
Measured Jan 10, 1990
The water at Wild Willy's Hot Springs is neutral (pH 7.0) with 1260 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
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
30 miles from Mammoth Lakes, CA
USGS Quad: (MT. MORRISON 15) · Circ 790: 56.0 · NOAA: 10.0 · AMS Map: MARIPOSA
What is the water temperature at Wild Willy's Hot Springs?
Wild Willy's Hot Springs has a water temperature of 120°F (49°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Wild Willy's Hot Springs located?
Wild Willy's Hot Springs is located in Mono County, California at 6,880 feet elevation, near Mammoth Lakes. Coordinates: 37.6570°N, 118.7640°W.
How do I get to Wild Willy's Hot Springs?
Wild Willy's Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.4 mi from the road).
Is Wild Willy's Hot Springs free to visit?
Wild Willy's Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Wild Willy's Hot Springs?
Yes, Crowley Lake Campground is located nearby (6.1 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Wild Willy's Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.0 (neutral). Total dissolved solids measure 1,260 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Wild Willy's Hot Springs?
At 120°F, Wild Willy's 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 Wild Willy's Hot Springs crowded?
Wild Willy's Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Wild Willy's Hot Springs?
Essentials for Wild Willy's 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.