• Little Hot Creek Hot Springs is one of the hot springs of the Long Valley Caldera
• Features a primitive concrete tub
An oasis of Long Valley Caldera, Little Hot Creek Hot Springs is one of the multiple soaking sites near the town of Mammoth Lakes.
This hot springs is less popular than other hot springs of the volcanic caldera as it is situated in an isolated area and the last portion of the road is rough and bumpy.
Hot springs emerge at an extremely high temperature, 200 yards away from a soaking place, forming a small creek named Little Hot Creek. Little Hot Creek enters Hot Creek that is known for its unique Hot Creek Geological Site.
The water gradually becomes cooler while flowing through grass and when it comes to a concrete tub, it is still hot and might be between 105 and 115°F depending on the weather conditions. The oval-shaped tub is knee-deep with inner ledges that are used as benches. It is 9 by 12 feet in diameter which is enough for two to four people.
Before getting into the pool, check the water and if it is too hot, turn off a valve on the pipe that is inside of the pool and wait for the water to cool down. The water in the tub can be easily replaced by removing a drain plug on the tub bottom.
When you are done with your bathing, please, shut the hot water inflow letting next visitors to reduce the wait time and enjoy bathing once they arrive.
There are a boardwalk across the creek and around the pool.
The local custom is clothing optional, so expect nudity here.
Camping is not forbidden here but you should camp a few hundred yards away. There are no facilities near the springs. Please help to keep the springs area clean by packing out all trash.
A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the last 1.5 miles.
Little Hot Creek Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 12 miles east of Mammoth Lakes • California • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Primitive
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: None
Hiking distance: Short
Road Access: Four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 7,000 ft (2,134 m)
Water T° (source): 180°F (82°C)
Water T° (pool): 105-115°F (41-46°C)
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Directions to Little Hot Creek Hot Springs
From Highway 395,
- Turn north to Benton Crossing Road and drive 1.2 miles to Whitmore Tubs Road
- Turn left and travel 3.3 miles to Owens River Road
- Turn left and go 0.7 miles to Antelope Springs Road and continue 2.5 miles to the cattle guard
- Turn left and drive 0.8 miles to the hot springs.
Thanks for this in-depth detail. We are trying to visit with children, but unfortunately due to nudity, its not possible for us.
Anyways we will find another place for vacations.