• Crowley Hot Springs is one of the hot springs in the Long Valley Caldera
• A heart-shaped pool is large enough for 10 - 15 people
Also known as Wild Willy's Hot Springs, Crowley Hot Springs is a great outdoor destination for those adventurous ones who want to soak in mineral hot water and enjoy a 360-degree view of Long Valley and the majestic Eastern Sierra.
Crowley Hot Springs is one of the many popular soaking sites near the town of Mammoth Lakes. However, unlike Rock Tub, Hilltop Hot, Crab Cooker, and Shepherd, Crowley Hot Springs can accommodate more people without feeling cramped.
A heart-shaped pool at the end of the wooden boardwalk is 3 feet deep and large enough for 10 - 15 people. The hot mineral water emerges from the source at a temperature of 105-degree Fahrenheit and flows to the pool through a small creek channel. The pool temperature depends on the weather conditions and can be between 98 and 102 degrees.
Another small pool is located a few yards away at a rock outcropping. Mineral water comes out at 102-degree Fahrenheit near the rock. The pool is 2 feet deep and can accommodate up to five people.
If you are heading North on Highway 395 from Bishop, bear right at Benton Crossing Road before you reach the airport. Follow nearly two miles by car until you reach a parking area with some logs to mark the location. A trail that partially consists of the elevated wooden boardwalk begins from the parking area. Expect to walk a few hundred yards on a gravel trail and wooden walkway through the salty plain and murky water around while enjoying beautiful valley and scenic mountains ridges in the background.
Managed by BLM, this area is kept clean. Please do not abuse the privilege of accessing this beautiful spot. Obey all signs and pack out all trash.
Camping & Lodging
No camping is allowed near the hot springs but you can camp on public land or Brown's Owens River Campground 3 miles away.
The closest accommodations are available in Mammoth Lakes, 13 miles west.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Mammoth Lakes
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Crowley Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 13.5 miles east of Mammoth Lakes • California • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Primitive
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: None
Hiking distance: 0.3 miles
Road Access: Any vehicle when the small dirt road is dry. Do not drive in snowy or wet conditions.
Day-use fees: None
Managed by: BLM
Elevation: 6,800 ft (2,073 m)
Water T° (source): 102-110°F (39-43°C)
Water T° (pools): 98-102°F (37-39°C)
More Adventures
Directions to Crowley Hot Springs
From the junction US-395 and Benton Crossing Road,
- Travel 3.1 miles northeast to a small dirt road on the right
- After passing the second cattle guard, turn right onto a small dirt road
- Follow this road for about 1.2 miles to the parking area and trailhead.
Park your car and walk on the gravel and wooden trail to the hot springs. Stay on the trail. When it is wet, the soil becomes mire.