A tranquil hot springs oasis in the high desert of the Eastern Sierra, Benton Hot Springs is located about 4 miles from the town of Benton near the California–Nevada border.

Operated for almost a hundred years, the 1,225-acre ranch is a wide-open landscape with the White Mountains as a backdrop. About 70% of the land is protected under conservation easements with the Eastern Sierra Land Trust, the Bramlette Trust, and Mono County to preserve it for future generations.

Benton Hot Springs is more than just a hot spring resort. Also known as Benton or Old Benton, it is a small mining town with a rich history dating back to the mid-1800s. Numerous preserved ghost buildings serve as reminders of what was once a thriving town with a population of up to 5,000 residents.

Historic buildings include:

Old Bank Building, built in the 1870s
Old House, built in the 1870s and formerly used as a Wells Fargo agency and general store
Benton Jail, erected in 1875
Wai Wera Hotel, constructed in 1904.

The natural hot springs were known and used by Native Americans for thousands of years. In 1852, European explorers discovered these isolated geothermal springs, marking the beginning of rapid development. The discovery of silver ore near Blind Springs Hill and in the White Mountains later fueled the area's growth.

When mining activity declined, the town never fully became a ghost town. Old Benton, with its hot springs, remains a popular destination in Eastern California.

Benton Hot Springs is open year-round. However, before you go, check road conditions. The weather can be unpredictable and severe snow situations can happen quickly during fall, winter, and spring. Do not rely on GPS or cell phone navigator, as SR 120 from Mono Lake to Benton Hot Springs can be closed. Check directions to the hot springs below.

Benton Hot Springs Water & Soaking

Benton Hot Springs is fed by a natural geothermal system that brings mineral-rich water to the surface from deep underground. The water emerges from the hillside at about 140°F (60°C), then cools to comfortable soaking temperatures as it is directed into private tubs.

The springs flow at about 800 gallons per minute, supplying each soaking tub with fresh, untreated hot spring water.

This water is used not only for soaking but also for drinking water, showers, restrooms, and heating systems throughout the property.

There are four houses with private hot tubs and 13 hot tub sites. Each site features a private hot tub, picnic table, fire grill, and pit. Bed-and-breakfast options are available if you stay in a historic miner's cabin or in one of the seven Inn rooms. Clothing is optional in the private bathing areas.

Hot tubs are available only to overnight guests.

Benton Hot Springs offers a range of rustic lodging options, including seven cozy rooms in a 1940s-era inn with modern comforts such as refrigerators and Wi-Fi, as well as unique standalone rentals like a historic miner’s cabin and four private houses, each with its own hot tub.

Guests may also stay at one of the resort’s 13 private hot tub sites, each featuring a natural hot spring–fed soaking tub, picnic table, and fire pit for tent or RV use. Additional accommodations include a vintage Airstream and a private casita with its own soaking tub.