• Rock Tub Hot Springs is one of the hot springs of the Long Valley Caldera
• Features a single soaking tub with a temperature between 90° and 95°F
Rock Tub Hot Springs is located in the Long Valley Caldera that formed over 700 thousand years ago when a volcano roof collapsed during a large volcanic eruption.
Rock Tub Hot Springs is a single soaking tub within a boundary of the ancient caldera east of Mammoth Lakes. Many hot springs dot this area including Crab Cooker Hot Springs, Shepherd Hot Springs, Hilltop Hot Springs, Crowley Hot Springs, and a geothermal wonder - Hot Creek Geological Site.
Made of rocks and concrete, the soaking tub is about three feet deep - large enough for six people. The hot water is transferred through a long pipe from the source that located on the hill. The water in the tub can be easily replaced by removing a drain plug on the bottom.
The water temperature at this location is not so hot as in Shepherd or Crab Cooker Hot Springs and, typically, is between 90 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Though the soaking tub is situated near the road, it is hidden down of the hill that gives the feeling of privacy if no one is there - a rare case at the spring or summer weekends. This spot is very well-known and loved for relatively warm water, easy access, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada.
There is parking available in the lower area next to the tub. Please help to keep the hot springs clean by packing out all your trash.
The best way to explore the area is stop by for a few days and enjoy this incredible geothermal area.
Camping & Lodging
The camping is not allowed at the hot springs but there are turnarounds and camping areas nearby. Brown's Owens River Campground is located 5 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
Video
Rock Tub 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: Any vehicle in dry weather
Day-use fees: None
Managed by: BLM
Elevation: 7,000 ft (2,134 m)
Water T° (source): Over 110°F (43°C)
Water T° (pool): 90-96°F (32-35°C)
More Adventures
Directions to Rock Tub Hot Springs
From the junction US-395 and Benton Crossing Road,
- Travel 1.1 miles northeast to the gravel Whitmore Tubs Road
- Turn left onto Whitmore Tubs Road and drive about 1 mile to a small dirt road on the right
- Turn right and continue 0.1 miles to the tub.
Things have changed greatly since the 70’s when I explore most of the hot springs from California to Colorado. It’s amazing to find the information so readily compared to my search with the USGeothermal Book. everything was plotted out on a map and I had to find them the ol’fashion way with a compass. Some springs were used as cattle trough drinking, others were behind barbed wire fencing. The best of course were the pools built along side rivers. Such an exciting time. Thank you for taking the effort in creating this website.