
Crowley Hot Springs is a spacious hot spring pool with panoramic views of Long Valley
Also known as Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, Crowley Hot Springs is a popular outdoor soaking spot for adventurous visitors. The pools offer mineral hot water and wide 360-degree views of Long Valley and the Eastern Sierra.
If you’re driving north on Highway 395 from Bishop, turn right onto Benton Crossing Road just before the airport. Continue for about one and a half miles until you reach a parking area marked with logs.
From the parking area, a short trail leads to the hot springs. The trail is a few hundred yards long and includes gravel sections and elevated wooden boardwalks that cross salty flats and shallow water, with scenic views of the valley and surrounding mountain ridges along the way. Stay on the main path to avoid getting stuck, as the soil can turn into deep mud when wet.
The best time to visit is from spring through fall. During winter, snow can make the road difficult or impassable. In dry conditions, most standard vehicles can drive the final 1.5-mile dirt road, but do not attempt it when the road is wet or snowy.
This area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Please respect this special place by following posted signs and packing out all trash.

Crowley Hot Springs Soaking Experience
Crowley Hot Springs can accommodate more visitors than nearby sites like Rock Tub, Hilltop Hot, Crab Cooker, and Shepherd, making it a welcoming spot for those seeking a less crowded experience.
A heart-shaped pool at the end of the wooden boardwalk is about 3 feet deep and fits 10–15 people. The hot mineral water comes from the source at about 105°F (41°C) and flows into the pool through a small creek channel. Depending on the weather, the pool temperature ranges from 98 to 102°F (37-39°C).
A smaller pool nearby at a rock outcropping receives mineral water at 102°F (39°C). It is about two feet deep and can fit up to five people.

Crowley Hot Springs Camping & Lodging
Camping isn’t allowed right by the hot springs, but dispersed camping is permitted on nearby BLM land, or you can stay at Brown’s Owens River Campground, about 3 miles away. Dispersed camping is primitive, with no facilities, so you’ll need to bring your own supplies and pack out all trash.
The nearest lodging is 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
Best time: From spring through fall
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: Bureau of Land Management (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
- After passing the second cattle guard, turn right onto a small dirt road
- Follow this road for about 1.5 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.








